Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Flight Mechanic

🎯 Role Definition

As a Flight Mechanic, you are the foundation of our operational safety and reliability. You are entrusted with the immense responsibility of maintaining our aircraft to the most stringent standards, ensuring every flight is safe and every system functions perfectly. This hands-on, highly technical role demands a fusion of expert mechanical skill, deep regulatory knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to precision. You will be the go-to expert for diagnosing and resolving complex issues, executing scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, and ultimately certifying the airworthiness of the aircraft. This role requires a dedicated, proactive problem-solver who excels in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and understands that the safety of our flight crews and passengers is the ultimate measure of success.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) School Graduate
Military Aircraft Technician / Crew Chief
Apprentice Mechanic / Maintenance Assistant

Advancement To:

Lead Flight Mechanic / Crew Lead
Maintenance Supervisor or Manager
Quality Control / Quality Assurance Inspector
Director of Maintenance

Lateral Moves:

Avionics Technician
Maintenance Controller / Planner
Technical Publications Writer (Maintenance Manuals)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform routine inspections, scheduled maintenance (e.g., phase, hourly, calendar), and unscheduled maintenance in accordance with FAA regulations and manufacturer specifications.
Troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair complex discrepancies on aircraft systems, including airframe, powerplant, hydraulic, pneumatic, flight control, and landing gear systems.
Accurately interpret and apply technical data from a variety of sources, such as maintenance manuals, service bulletins, Airworthiness Directives (ADs), and engineering orders.
Complete and maintain detailed, precise maintenance records and logbook entries to accurately reflect all work performed and ensure a complete history of the aircraft.
Conduct comprehensive pre-flight, through-flight, and post-flight inspections to verify aircraft are safe for flight and all systems are operational.
Perform engine and propeller/fan blade changes, rigging, and operational checks, including high-power engine runs to validate performance.
Launch and recover aircraft, providing servicing of fuel, oil, hydraulic fluid, and other essential consumables as required.
g and replacing aircraft components, such as avionics units, actuators, pumps, and valves.
Ensure all work performed adheres to the highest standards of safety, quality, and compliance with all applicable FAA, company, and manufacturer regulations.
Operate and inspect all ground support equipment (GSE), including tugs, APUs, and hydraulic mules, ensuring they are in safe and serviceable condition.
Collaborate directly with flight crews and maintenance control to effectively communicate aircraft status, troubleshoot in-flight discrepancies, and coordinate maintenance needs.
Perform advanced structural and sheet metal repairs, including damage assessment, fabrication, riveting, and part replacement.
Respond to Aircraft on Ground (AOG) situations, which may require rapid mobilization, travel, and high-pressure problem-solving in remote locations.
Maintain and track the calibration of all assigned precision tools and equipment, ensuring they remain within certification dates.
Proficiently use company-specific maintenance software to track work orders, document labor hours, and order necessary parts and materials.
Perform component-level maintenance in dedicated back shops, such as wheel and brake assembly, battery servicing, and hydraulic component testing.
Assist with the installation and testing of major aircraft modifications and Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs).
Conduct weight and balance calculations and adjustments following major repairs, modifications, or component changes.
Ensure all required placards and markings on the aircraft exterior and interior are present, legible, and properly affixed.
Uphold a clean, safe, and organized work environment within the hangar, on the flight line, and in maintenance vehicles, complying with all safety protocols.

Secondary Functions

Mentor and provide on-the-job training to junior mechanics and apprentices to foster team skill development and knowledge transfer.
Assist in managing the inventory of parts, consumables, and calibrated tools, ensuring all equipment is serviceable and accounted for.
Actively participate in the company's Safety Management System (SMS) by identifying and reporting potential hazards and contributing to safety meetings.
Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the hangar, workshops, and flight line to ensure a safe, professional, and efficient work environment.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Certificate (Required)
Proficiency in interpreting maintenance manuals, illustrated parts catalogs (IPCs), blueprints, and wiring diagrams.
In-depth knowledge of Federal Aviation Regulations (e.g., Part 91, 135, 145).
Proven ability to troubleshoot and repair complex aircraft systems, including hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and fuel systems.
Experience with maintenance tracking software (e.g., CAMP, Traxxall, Corridor, Flightdocs).
Competency in using specialized tooling, multimeters, and precision measuring devices.
Experience performing engine run-ups and, if authorized, taxiing aircraft.
Skills in sheet metal and/or composite structural repair are highly desirable.

Soft Skills

Uncompromising attention to detail and a safety-first mindset.
Exceptional analytical, diagnostic, and problem-solving abilities.
Strong verbal and written communication skills for clear documentation and team collaboration.
Ability to work effectively under pressure, manage tight deadlines, and adapt to changing operational priorities.
High level of self-motivation with the capacity to work independently and as a collaborative team member.
Strong work ethic and a commitment to maintaining a professional appearance and demeanor.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED
Valid FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certificate

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology or a related field.
Documented factory-approved training on specific airframes and engines.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Aviation Maintenance Technology
Aerospace Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-8 years of hands-on experience as an aircraft mechanic on corporate, commercial, or military aircraft.

Preferred: Direct experience working in a Part 135, Part 121, or Part 145 repair station environment. Experience on specific airframes relevant to the company's fleet (e.g., Gulfstream, Bombardier, Cessna Citation, Boeing, Airbus) is a significant advantage.