AVIATION MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN JOB DESCRIPTION

Browse curated Aviation Maintenance Technician job descriptions featuring responsibilities, certification requirements, and experience levels across diverse aviation sectors.

Aviation Maintenance Technician Job Description Template

1. About the Role

Every aircraft that departs on schedule does so because someone resolved the discrepancy before the crew boarded. Corporate and charter flight departments operating under FAR Part 91 and Part 135 demand technicians who can work from approved data, close the paperwork to FAA standards, and sign off on airworthiness without a second set of eyes standing over them. That accountability falls here. The Aviation Maintenance Technician holds a valid FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificate and owns the full maintenance cycle from pre-flight inspection through return-to-service documentation across turbine-powered fixed-wing and rotor aircraft.

2. Position Summary

As the Aviation Maintenance Technician, you are responsible for keeping company or customer aircraft airworthy, dispatchable, and in compliance with applicable FARs, Airworthiness Directives, and approved maintenance manuals, with every sign-off traceable to you personally. You work within a structured flight department or line maintenance station, coordinating daily with the Director of Maintenance or Station Lead and interfacing directly with flight crews at departure and arrival.

3. Why Join Us

Career Impact: Consistent exposure to turbine corporate aircraft under Part 135 and Part 145 operations accelerates the A&P credentials and logbook depth that support an Inspection Authorization certification and eventual lead or Director of Maintenance advancement.

Business Impact: When an aircraft cannot be dispatched, executives miss critical travel windows and air medical crews cannot respond - your technical sign-off is the single point that restores operational readiness.

Growth Opportunity: Technicians who build troubleshooting depth on complex corporate airframes and gain supervisory hours move into Lead Mechanic and Director of Maintenance roles, increasing both scope and compensation within a specialized, credential-gated labor market.

4. Key Responsibilities

  • Inspect, service, and return to service airframe and powerplant systems in accordance with FAA-approved maintenance manuals and applicable FARs.
  • Troubleshoot complex aircraft systems across structural, electrical, hydraulic, fuel, and instrument assemblies to identify and correct root causes.
  • Complete all required FAA logbook entries, work orders, and maintenance records to satisfy Part 91, Part 135, and Part 145 documentation standards.
  • Monitor and maintain compliance with Airworthiness Directives and applicable Service Bulletins on assigned aircraft.
  • Conduct pre- and post-flight inspections, clear discrepancies, and coordinate with flight crews during departures and arrivals.
  • Participate in Foreign Object Debris control, tool accountability programs, and hangar safety procedures to maintain a compliant work environment.
  • Coordinate with the Director of Maintenance or Station Lead to prioritize and complete assigned tasks within estimated labor hours.
  • Support ground operations including aircraft marshalling, towing, refueling, and oversight of third-party contractors when required.

5. Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in aviation maintenance technology or equivalent work experience.
  • 3 or more years of airframe and powerplant maintenance experience, with demonstrated proficiency on turbine-powered corporate or charter aircraft.
  • Current, valid FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate with no history of certificate actions.
  • Working knowledge of FAR Parts 43, 91, 135, and 145 and the ability to apply each to specific maintenance scenarios.
  • Demonstrated ability to read, interpret, and work from aircraft maintenance manuals, schematics, and approved technical data without supervision.
  • Proficiency in completing FAA-required logbook entries, work orders, and maintenance release documentation accurately and on time.
  • Physical capability to lift 50 lbs unassisted, work at heights, access confined spaces, and operate in varying outdoor temperatures and weather conditions.
  • Ownership of standard hand tools required for line maintenance duties as specified by company tool list.

6. Preferred Qualifications

  • Inspection Authorization (IA) certification, or active pursuit of IA with documented qualifying experience hours.
  • Factory or Flight Safety International type training on specific corporate airframes such as Cessna Citation, Pilatus PC-12, Learjet, or Beechcraft King Air series.
  • Prior experience in an FAA-approved Part 145 repair station or structured MRO environment with formal quality assurance processes.
  • Familiarity with electronic aircraft tracking and maintenance management software used in corporate flight departments.

7. Success Metrics & Environment

  • Return-to-service rate per shift, reflecting how consistently aircraft are cleared within estimated labor hours.
  • Logbook and work order accuracy rate, measured against FAA documentation audit findings per quarter.
  • Airworthiness Directive compliance percentage across assigned aircraft, tracked against due-date schedules.
  • Rework rate per completed task, indicating first-time maintenance quality without repeat corrective action.
  • Pre- and post-flight discrepancy clearance time, measuring how quickly reported squawks are resolved before next departure.
  • Typical tools: aircraft hand tool sets (commonly Snap-on or Cornwell); electronic maintenance tracking (commonly Ramco or Avtrak); ground support equipment including main lifts and scissor lifts.

8. Compensation & Benefits (US Market Benchmark)

  • Base Salary Range: $58,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on experience and airframe type ratings
  • Bonus: Shift differential and occasional overtime; performance bonuses less common in this sector
  • Equity: Equity not typical; some operators offer profit-sharing or retention bonuses
  • Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer contribution varies by operator size
  • PTO: 10 to 15 days annually, with additional sick leave; on-call obligations may apply
  • Common Perks: Uniform and tool allowance, factory type-training sponsorship, airport access credentials, and FAA continuing education support


Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

9. EEO & Legal

Because aviation maintenance is a safety-sensitive function, employment is contingent on successful completion of a pre-employment background check and drug and alcohol screening as required by the FAA. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities are available upon request throughout the hiring process. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

Aviation Maintenance Technician Job Description Examples

1. Aviation Maintenance Technician (Corporate & General Aviation)

The Aviation Maintenance Technician delivers scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on corporate and general aviation aircraft, including Cessna, Pilatus, Learjet, and Cirrus, within a general aviation environment serving company and customer flight operations. Reporting to maintenance leadership, this role ensures airworthiness compliance under FAA regulations and supports flight readiness through precise inspections, documentation, and repairs.


Key Responsibilities

  • Perform high-quality inspections, servicing, and maintenance on airframe systems and components, including 100-hour, annual, and phase-type inspections.
  • Complete testing, adjusting, repairing, and other general tasks related to the maintenance and repair of airframe systems and components.
  • Perform troubleshooting, fitting, and installation on complex structural assemblies.
  • Research and use appropriate technical data and follow verbal instructions when accomplishing assigned maintenance tasks.
  • Order general and aircraft parts as needed.
  • Prepare and complete appropriate documentation for record-keeping purposes as required by Company policy and FAA regulations.
  • Use hand tools in a timely, clean, safe, and professional manner with minimal rework.
  • Follow and comply with all aviation safety rules and regulations.


Required Qualifications

  • Current A&P License required, with pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing as required by the FAA.
  • Flight Safety International or similar formal training preferred.
  • Experience in aircraft maintenance, with preference given to Cessna, Pilatus, Learjet and Cirrus aircraft.
  • Thorough knowledge of FAR Parts 43, 91, 135 and 145.
  • Must possess minimum tooling required to perform assigned duties.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs routinely and up to 100 lbs occasionally, with frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, reaching, and climbing.
  • Ability to work in small spaces, extreme temperatures, heights above six feet, and around toxic chemicals and fumes with proper protection.
  • Strong communication skills with customers and co-workers, ability to work independently and as a team member.
  • Willingness to work overtime and on-call.

2. Aviation Maintenance Technician (Aircraft Modernization & Repair)

Embedded within the VSE Aviation Maintenance and Modernization team, the Aviation Maintenance Technician performs aircraft maintenance, repairs, and component overhauls in accordance with FAA, VSE AMM, and customer quality standards. Working closely with co-workers, other departments, and management, this role builds airworthiness outcomes by delivering defect-free work on time while advancing a culture of safety and waste elimination.


Core Functions

  • Perform removal and replacement of aircraft and powerplant components requiring bolting, torqueing, adjusting, rigging and safety wiring, including flight control removal and installation.
  • Troubleshoot, repair, service, modify, replace and overhaul aircraft and aircraft systems using approved data to ensure airworthiness.
  • Complete all tasks to the quality standards of VSE AMM, FAA and customer-approved maintenance manuals.
  • Promote a culture of safety by monitoring work areas and ensuring all duties comply with the VSE AMM Team Member Safety Manual.
  • Ensure VSE AMM and customer aircraft maintenance documents are accurate and properly annotated.
  • Operate all ground support equipment safely and maintain VSE AMM operating certification.
  • Participate in Foreign Object Debris control and tool accountability programs including FOD walks and personal tool inventory.
  • Communicate effectively with co-workers, other departments, and management to complete assignments with minimal rework.


Qualifications & Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Military aviation maintenance training preferred.
  • Two or more years of aircraft maintenance experience or military equivalent.
  • Must own tools as required by company tool list.
  • Proficiency in reading, writing, and understanding English.
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs unassisted, with corrected visual acuity of 20/40 or better and normal or corrected hearing.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, stand for prolonged periods, climb ladders, access crawl spaces, and wear a full-face respirator.
  • Able to work in environments with hazardous chemicals requiring use of safety equipment.

3. Aviation Maintenance Technician (Corporate Flight Department)

Reporting to the Director of Maintenance, the Aviation Maintenance Technician inspects, repairs, and leads complex inspection activities on Encompass Health Corporation company aircraft to maintain airworthiness and flight schedule availability. Partnering with flight crews and the Director of Maintenance, this role shapes safe, compliant aircraft operations by integrating Safety Management System initiatives, Maintenance Risk Assessments, and process improvements across the flight department.


Primary Duties

  • Troubleshoot complex aircraft systems to identify and rectify the source of reported problems.
  • Maintain compliance with applicable Service Bulletins and Airworthiness Directives on assigned aircraft.
  • Ensure assigned maintenance tasks and related documentation are completed in accordance with applicable FARs, stopping work and consulting the Director of Maintenance when safety is in doubt.
  • Conduct Maintenance Risk Assessments and participate in IS-BAO and Safety Management System initiatives.
  • Perform pre- and post-flight inspections, clear discrepancies, and interface with flight crews during briefings.
  • Oversee FBO marshalling, towing, third-party detailing, aircraft refueling, and ground support equipment maintenance.
  • Assist flight crews with departures and arrivals, including loading, cabin restoration, and baggage handling.
  • Identify and document maintenance department process improvements in collaboration with the Director of Maintenance.


Skills & Qualifications

  • Associate's degree or equivalent experience preferred, with completion of manufacturer-approved initial and recurrent training on assigned aircraft types required.
  • FAA Airframe and Powerplant license required, with Inspection Authorization (IA) certification desired and valid driver's license required.
  • 4 to 6 years of experience as an A&P Technician required, with 5 to 10 years in an MRO or in-house flight department preferred.
  • 1 to 2 years of team lead or supervisory experience preferred.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of FAR Part 91 operations and corporate aircraft maintenance.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills with ability to solve complex technical issues independently.
  • Strong project management, training, and team collaboration skills.
  • Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and ability to identify process improvements.

4. Aviation Maintenance Technician (Air Medical Operations)

Sitting at the intersection of aircraft maintenance and air medical operations, the Aviation Maintenance Technician ensures smooth and efficient operation of an air medical base and aircraft while serving as the principal customer relations contact for the base. Operating across maintenance, flight operations, and customer-facing functions, this role shapes safe, FAR 135-compliant aircraft availability and channels critical operational and maintenance information through the Director of Maintenance.


Duties

  • Perform maintenance and repair procedures on airframe, propeller, engine, structural, electrical, hydraulic, fuel, and instrument systems.
  • Troubleshoot all aircraft systems using technical and maintenance manuals and complete FAA-required logbook entries for FAR 135 operations.
  • Order parts using manufacturer's manuals and access computer-based maintenance manuals and aircraft tracking programs.
  • Interact with FAA personnel during inspections and investigations and ensure base operations comply with all applicable policies and FARs.
  • Promote and support the company Safety and Just Culture programs and uphold company values.
  • Coach and mentor base line pilots on aviation and maintenance matters as required.
  • Communicate company information to customers and maintain effective customer relationships.
  • Display fiscal responsibility by considering financial impact and costs associated with flight operations.


Requirements

  • FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificate required.
  • Inspection Authorization strongly preferred.
  • Minimum 2 years of A&P experience, with formal experience on fixed-wing or rotor-wing aircraft, including Beech KA B200 preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of FAA logbook entry requirements and FAR 135 operations.
  • Experience with Ramco or other electronic aircraft tracking software preferred.
  • Must own required hand tools and be able to lift 75 lbs, with normal range of motion and dexterity.
  • Able to acquire and maintain a TSA- or airport-issued AOA or SIDA security badge.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to simplify complex technical information for varied audiences, plus adaptability and teamwork.

5. Aviation Maintenance Technician (Commercial Airline Line Maintenance)

A key member of the line maintenance station team, the Aviation Maintenance Technician supports daily maintenance operations for commercial airline customers, including Airbus A320 aircraft, under the direction of the Line Maintenance Station Manager and Station Leads. Collaborating across field airlines, flight crews, and Aircraft Maintenance Controllers, this role delivers top-level service that builds and maintains aircraft airworthiness to FAA and Part 145 standards.


Functions

  • Inspect, test, troubleshoot, adjust, and repair transport category aircraft airframes and engines using hand tools and test equipment.
  • Ensure aircraft are maintained to airworthiness standards in accordance with applicable regulations, airworthiness directives, company policies and best practices.
  • Adjust, repair or replace defective components based on test results while following maintenance manuals, schematics and other technical documentation.
  • Use precision instruments to measure parts for wear and repair or replace as required.
  • Work in close partnership with field airlines, flight crews and Aircraft Maintenance Controllers.
  • Perform work outdoors and in inclement weather as required on Airbus A320 aircraft.


Experience & Qualifications

  • Must hold a current and valid FAA A&P certificate with no history of infractions.
  • Must pass a background check and drug and alcohol test.
  • Experience under a FAA-approved Part 145 repair station or Part 135 operation highly desired, with Inspection Authorization a plus.
  • Previous experience on commercial and large regional aircraft strongly preferred.
  • Must own a standard set of line maintenance tools.
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs unassisted, work standing, climb ladders and stairs, and obtain Customs and Border Protection clearance.
  • Basic to mid-level computer and organizational skills required.
  • Self-motivated with strong customer focus and communication skills.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision in variable schedules including nights, weekends, and holidays.

6. Aviation Maintenance Technician (Part 135 Corporate Operations)

Safe and compliant corporate flight operations depend on the Aviation Maintenance Technician, who performs inspections, repairs, troubleshooting, and 24-hour emergency maintenance on company-managed aircraft under Part 135. Based within a corporate aviation environment and reporting to maintenance leadership, this role leads airworthiness outcomes by ensuring documentation accuracy, inventory control, and contractor oversight across all scheduled and unscheduled maintenance activity.


Accountabilities

  • Perform aircraft maintenance duties to ensure the safety and operation of corporate aircraft under Part 135 operations.
  • Conduct troubleshooting to identify root cause and appropriate corrective action for equipment problems.
  • Perform inspections and repairs of company-managed aircraft according to plan and schedule.
  • Ensure compliance and safety through effective documentation procedures and understanding of safety requirements.
  • Maintain inventory controls and assist in monitoring work performed by outside contractors.
  • Provide 24-hour emergency maintenance service as needed.


Technical Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificate required.
  • Three to five years of experience with corporate aircraft preferred.
  • Working knowledge of Part 135 operations.
  • Knowledge of Avtrak or similar aircraft tracking software.
  • Ability to use a variety of hand and power tools and move up to 100 lbs infrequently.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills, with attention to detail, and independent judgment.
  • Ability to interact with all levels of the company.
  • Ability to work non-standard hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and on-call, indoors and outdoors in varying temperatures.

Editorial Process and Content Quality

This content is developed by the Lamwork Editorial Team using structured analysis of real-world job data, skill requirements, and hiring patterns.

Research framework by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead.

Reviewed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor.

Learn more about our editorial standards.