How to Be Aviation Service Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 18, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The Aviation Service Technician is a highly skilled professional who is responsible for the maintenance and repair of aircraft. Their expertise and knowledge is essential to ensure safe and efficient operation of aircraft. This role is essential for the success of the aviation industry, as aircraft must be kept in top condition for optimal performance.

As a result, Aviation Service Technicians must have a high level of technical knowledge and experience, as well as strong problem-solving and analytical skills. Furthermore, they must be able to detect and diagnose problems quickly and accurately, and have a firm understanding of the aircrafts systems, components, and maintenance requirements. the Aviation Service Technician plays an integral role in ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo.

Steps How to Become

Earn a high school diploma or equivalent. Aviation service technicians require at least a high school diploma or equivalent to be employed.
Enroll in a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved aviation maintenance technician program. FAA-approved programs are offered at a variety of colleges and vocational schools. Programs typically last two and four years, depending on the type of certification desired.
Obtain an FAA Airframe and/or Powerplant Mechanic certificate. This certificate is required to become an aviation service technician. Applicants must pass both written and practical exams in order to receive the certificate.
Obtain hands-on experience. Many aircraft maintenance employers prefer applicants who possess some hands-on experience with aircrafts and their components. This can be obtained through on-the-job training, internships, and apprenticeships.
Maintain certification. Aviation service technicians must maintain their FAA certification by completing the required continuing education credits every two years.

Staying ahead and competent as an Aviation Service Technician requires a lot of dedication and hard work. To ensure ongoing success, it is important to stay up to date with the latest industry trends, regulations, and technologies. Continuous training and education can help keep you ahead of the curve, while networking with other professionals within the industry can provide valuable insight into the latest methods and technologies.

ensuring that safety protocols are up to date, and that all aircraft components are properly maintained and serviced, will help guarantee a safe and reliable operation. By staying informed, continuing to educate yourself, and maintaining the highest standards of safety, an Aviation Service Technician can stay ahead of the competition and remain competent in their field.

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Job Description

Inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft components, systems, and accessories.
Troubleshoot malfunctions and diagnose operational problems with aircraft.
Perform scheduled, preventative, and emergency maintenance on all types of aircraft.
Install and test modifications to aircraft structures, systems, and components.
Provide technical support and assistance to all levels of aircraft maintenance personnel.
Utilize various tools, test equipment, and diagnostic software to troubleshoot and repair aircraft components.
Perform detailed inspections of all aircraft components as required by company and governmental regulations.
Document all maintenance actions and inspections in accordance with company policies and procedures.
Maintain a safe working environment in compliance with all safety regulations.
Keep up to date with advances in aircraft technology and new maintenance procedures.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of aircraft maintenance and repair procedures.
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose technical issues.
Effective problem-solving skills.
Knowledge of FAA regulations and requirements.
Ability to read, understand and interpret technical manuals and schematics.
Ability to use hand and power tools safely and effectively.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Working knowledge of computer programs such as Microsoft Office Suite.
Attention to detail and superior organization skills.
Ability to lift heavy objects and work in confined spaces.

Aviation service technicians are a critical part of the aviation industry, providing maintenance and repair services to keep aircraft operating safely and efficiently. Having a strong set of technical skills is essential for anyone in this role, as they are responsible for inspecting and maintaining aircraft engines, instrumentation, and other components. One of the most important skills an aviation service technician needs to have is problem-solving.

Aircraft systems are complex, and when something goes wrong, its often up to the service technician to figure out whats wrong and how to fix it. This requires creativity, logic, and a deep understanding of the aircraft system. service technicians must have a thorough knowledge of aviation safety regulations to ensure that the repairs they make meet all required standards.

Finally, communication skills are essential for aviation service technicians, as they must be able to interact effectively with customers and provide clear instructions to their colleagues in order to ensure that all repairs are made correctly.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in aircraft maintenance and repair?
What certifications and qualifications do you hold related to aviation service?
How familiar are you with FAA regulations and safety protocols?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot a complex issue with an aircraft.
What do you consider the most important safety precaution when servicing an aircraft?
How do you stay up to date with new aircraft technologies?
What steps do you take to ensure that all repairs are done correctly the first time?
How would you identify and resolve a problem in an aircraft's engine or propulsion system?
Describe a time when you had to work with a team of technicians to complete a job.
What kind of experience do you have working with aircraft systems and components?

Common Tools in Industry

Avionics Test Set. Used to test and troubleshoot avionic systems. (eg: Fluke FTS-100A Avionics Test Set)
Crimping Tool. Used to attach electrical connectors to wires. (eg: Gardner Bender GSW-42 Wire Crimping Tool)
Soldering Iron. Used to join two pieces of metal by melting solder. (eg: Weller WLC100 Soldering Iron)
Torque Wrench. Used to tighten bolts and fasteners to a specific torque setting. (eg: Proto Tools 1/2" Drive Click Torque Wrench)
Digital Multimeter. Used to measure electrical values such as voltage and current. (eg: Fluke 87V Digital Multimeter)
Screwdrivers. Used to tighten or loosen screws and bolts. (eg: Craftsman 6-Piece Screwdriver Set)
Wrenches. Used to hold and turn nuts, bolts and other fasteners. (eg: Craftsman 9-Piece Combination Wrench Set)
Pliers. Used to grip, twist, or bend objects. (eg: Channellock 6-Piece Plier Set)
Cable Testers. Used to test the integrity of cables. (eg: Fluke Networks TS52 Pro Cable Tester)
Safety Glasses. Used to protect the eyes from debris and dust. (eg: NoCry Safety Glasses with Clear Anti-Fog Lens)

Professional Organizations to Know

Aircraft Electronics Association
National Business Aviation Association
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association
Experimental Aircraft Association
International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations
National Air Transportation Association
National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies
Professional Aviation Maintenance Association
Society of Aviation and Flight Educators
International Aviation Maintenance Professionals

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Common Important Terms

Avionics. The branch of aerospace technology that deals with the development, operation, and maintenance of electronic systems used in aviation.
Aircraft Maintenance. The inspection, testing, and repair of aircraft components in order to ensure safety and reliability.
Ground Support Equipment (GSE). Equipment used to perform ground operations such as fueling, towing, and loading of aircraft.
FAA Regulations. Rules and regulations established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the operation of aircraft in the United States.
Airworthiness Certification. A certification issued by the FAA that certifies an aircraft is safe to fly.
Airworthiness Directive (AD). An order issued by the FAA that requires a corrective action to be taken in order to maintain an aircrafts airworthiness.
Aircraft Logbook. A record of maintenance activity, inspections, and repairs performed on an aircraft.
Troubleshooting. The process of diagnosing and resolving problems with aircraft systems or components.
Flight Line Maintenance. Maintenance activities performed on an aircraft while it is parked on the ground or taxiing.
A&P License. An Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license is a certification issued by the FAA that allows a technician to perform maintenance and repairs on aircraft.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Aviation Service Technician?

An Aviation Service Technician is a professional responsible for maintaining, servicing, and repairing aircrafts and their components.

What qualifications are required to become an Aviation Service Technician?

To become an Aviation Service Technician, individuals must hold a valid Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

What type of tasks do Aviation Service Technicians perform?

Aviation Service Technicians perform a variety of tasks, such as inspecting, testing, troubleshooting, and repairing aircraft engines, airframes, and related components. They also inspect and service aircraft components, such as brakes, tires, and instruments.