How to Be Aerospace Parts Specialist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 7, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Aerospace parts specialists play an important role in the aerospace industry, as they are responsible for the acquisition and maintenance of the parts necessary to keep aircraft functioning. As a result of their expertise, aerospace parts specialists help ensure the safe operation of aircraft and the safety of those who fly in them. Without their knowledge and experience, the industry would suffer from a lack of quality assurance and safety standards, leading to dangerous outcomes. Additionally, due to their ability to source parts from multiple vendors, aerospace parts specialists also help reduce costs for airlines and other operators, making air travel more accessible and affordable.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. Most aerospace parts specialists have a bachelor's degree in aviation, engineering, or a related field. This degree should be relevant to the type of aerospace parts that the individual is interested in working with.
Obtain Industry Certification. Obtaining industry certification is typically required for becoming an aerospace parts specialist. Organizations such as the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) and Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) offer certifications in areas such as aerospace product design, quality assurance, and safety.
Gain Relevant Experience. It is important for aerospace parts specialists to have experience working with the types of parts they will be responsible for handling. This can be gained through internships, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training.
Pursue Continuing Education. Aerospace parts specialists should stay up to date on the latest developments in the industry. This can be accomplished by attending industry conferences, reading industry publications, and taking continuing education courses.
Join Professional Organizations. Joining professional organizations such as the AIA or SME can provide aerospace parts specialists with networking opportunities, access to industry resources, and continuing education opportunities.

The aerospace industry is highly complex, and the need for reliable and qualified parts specialists is of utmost importance. Without the right parts specialists, aircraft and other aerospace equipment can suffer from a number of issues, including malfunctioning components, delayed projects and safety concerns. Poorly constructed parts can also lead to costly repairs and replacement, as well as an increase in maintenance costs.

Furthermore, if the parts specialist is not qualified, they may not be able to identify the right components for a specific project, leading to further delays. To ensure the proper functioning of aerospace equipment and avoid costly mistakes, it is essential to hire reliable and qualified aerospace parts specialists.

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Job Description

Research and identify aerospace parts and components.
Analyze and evaluate product specifications to determine compatibility.
Maintain and update aerospace parts databases.
Verify part numbers, serial numbers, and other identifying information.
Process orders for replacement parts and components.
Manage inventory levels for parts and components.
Communicate with suppliers and vendors to negotiate pricing, delivery schedules, and warranties.
Prepare detailed reports for management and customers.
Participate in industry conferences and events to stay up-to-date on trends and developments.
Perform inspections of received parts and components to ensure quality standards are met.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Expert knowledge of aerospace parts and components
Ability to identify and procure parts from a variety of sources
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to interpret drawings and specifications
Ability to work with complex computer systems and databases
Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with suppliers and end-users
Ability to understand and adhere to regulatory guidelines related to aerospace parts
Ability to assess technical requirements for parts and components
Ability to provide technical support for aerospace parts and components
Knowledge of inventory management principles

The ability to effectively manage the acquisition, tracking, and distribution of aerospace parts is a critical skill for any aerospace parts specialist. This requires knowledge of the specific parts being ordered and the necessary certifications for each part. the specialist must be able to identify any potential problems that may arise during the ordering process, such as incorrect specification or missing paperwork.

The specialist must also be able to communicate effectively with vendors and customers in order to ensure the timely and accurate delivery of parts. Furthermore, the specialist must be well-versed in computer systems and databases used to store and track inventory, orders, and customer information. Having these skills is essential for an aerospace parts specialist to manage all aspects of their job efficiently and effectively.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with aerospace parts and components?
How familiar are you with FAA regulations and requirements for aircraft parts?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot and repair an aircraft part.
What strategies do you use to ensure accuracy when ordering and tracking parts?
How do you stay up-to-date on new parts and technologies in the aerospace industry?
How would you go about developing a system for locating and managing spare parts?
What is your experience with aviation maintenance tracking systems?
How do you handle difficult customers or situations related to parts orders?
Describe a time when you had to think quickly to resolve a parts issue.
What have you done to ensure the timely delivery of parts in the past?

Common Tools in Industry

CAD Software. Used to design and create 3D models of aerospace parts (eg: SolidWorks).
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machines. Used to cut and shape parts from raw materials (eg: 3-Axis CNC Mill).
Quality Control Software. Used to ensure parts meet aerospace industry standards (eg: FARO Arm).
Assembly and Disassembly Tools. Used for assembling, disassembling, and reassembling parts (eg: torque wrenches).
Inspection Equipment. Used to inspect parts for quality assurance (eg: optical comparators).
Inventory Management Software. Used to track and manage parts, orders, and inventory (eg: SAP).
Logistics Software. Used for shipping, tracking, and managing orders (eg: FedEx).
Technical Documentation Software. Used to create and maintain technical manuals and procedures (eg: Madcap Flare).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
Aerospace Industries Association (AIA)
International Council of Aeronautical Sciences (ICAS)
Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS)
The American Helicopter Society International (AHS)
Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
National Aeronautic Association (NAA)
International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (IAESTE)
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
International Academy of Astronautics (IAA)

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Common Important Terms

Aircraft Structural Components. Parts of an aircraft that provide structural support and stability, such as wings, fuselage, and landing gear.
Avionics. An electronic system that controls an aircrafts operation, such as navigation, communication, and autopilot.
Flight Control System. A system that regulates an aircrafts motion and attitude in flight, such as elevators and ailerons.
Propulsion System. An aircrafts power system, such as engines, propellers, and fuel systems.
Airframe. The body of an aircraft, including all of its components, such as the fuselage, wings, and tail.
Hydraulics. A system of components that use pressurized fluids to transmit energy and power to various sections of an aircraft.
Aircraft Accessories. Components used to enhance an aircrafts performance, such as air conditioning and navigation systems.
Instrumentation. An aircrafts instrumentation system, which includes gauges, sensors, and computers used to monitor and control the aircrafts operations.
Certified Parts. Parts that have been approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other regulatory agencies for use in aircraft.
Aircraft Maintenance. The process of inspecting, servicing, and repairing aircraft components to ensure they are in safe and working order.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Aerospace Parts Specialist?

An Aerospace Parts Specialist is a professional responsible for identifying, procuring and managing parts and components used in aircrafts and other aerospace vehicles.

What qualifications are needed to become an Aerospace Parts Specialist?

To become an Aerospace Parts Specialist, a person must possess a bachelors degree in an aerospace-related discipline and have several years of experience in the aerospace industry.

What duties does an Aerospace Parts Specialist perform?

An Aerospace Parts Specialist is responsible for locating, evaluating and procuring parts from various suppliers, maintaining accurate records of parts and components, and preparing reports on inventory and requisitions.

How many aircraft parts are typically managed by an Aerospace Parts Specialist?

An Aerospace Parts Specialist typically manages hundreds or even thousands of parts and components used in aircrafts and other aerospace vehicles.

What other skills should an Aerospace Parts Specialist possess?

An Aerospace Parts Specialist should have excellent organizational and communication skills, as well as knowledge of safety regulations, quality assurance procedures, and aerospace engineering principles.