How to Be Military Aircraft Repairer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 4, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of an Aircraft Repairer is of great importance in the military industry, as they are responsible for maintaining the airworthiness of military aircraft. This includes inspecting and repairing aircraft structures, engines, and components to keep them in optimal working condition. The Aircraft Repairer must have a deep knowledge of aircraft parts and systems in order to diagnose problems and decide on the most effective solution.

By ensuring aircraft are fully functional and safe to fly, the Aircraft Repairer plays a key role in ensuring the safety of pilots, the public, and the successful completion of missions. The consequences of failing to properly maintain aircraft can be devastating, resulting in costly delays, mission failure, and even injury or loss of life.

Steps How to Become

Earn a High School Diploma or GED. Most Military Aircraft Repairers need at least a high school diploma or equivalent to qualify for the position.
Complete Military Service. In order to become a Military Aircraft Repairer, you must first join the military and complete at least two years of service.
Obtain Technical Education. The military requires all of its Aircraft Repairers to have some technical training and education in order to qualify for the position. This can be obtained through a technical school or through a community college.
Take an Aptitude Test. The military will also require you to take an aptitude test in order to determine if you have the skills and knowledge necessary to become a Military Aircraft Repairer.
Receive Training. Once you have been accepted into the military, you will receive on-the-job training as a Military Aircraft Repairer. This training will include instruction on how to diagnose and repair aircraft systems and components.
Obtain Certification. After you have completed your training and have gained experience as a Military Aircraft Repairer, you may be eligible for certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This certification will allow you to work as an independent aircraft maintenance technician.

The ideal and efficient repair of military aircraft requires careful planning, knowledgeable technical staff, and quality parts. An effective plan must be created to outline detailed steps for the repair process and to ensure that the aircraft is in peak condition before its return to service. Experienced technicians must be consulted to ensure that the aircraft is repaired correctly and that all safety protocols are followed.

Quality parts must be sourced from reliable vendors to guarantee the efficient repair of the aircraft. Without these three components: careful planning, knowledgeable technical staff, and quality parts, the repair of military aircraft would be inefficient and often unsuccessful.

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Job Description

Inspect, troubleshoot and maintain aircraft components and systems.
Perform scheduled maintenance and repairs on aircraft components.
Perform minor repairs, adjustments and modifications to aircraft and related systems.
Use specialized tools and equipment to diagnose and test aircraft components.
Reassemble and install aircraft components and systems.
Repair damaged aircraft components and systems.
Perform operational checks on aircraft systems.
Receive, store, and issue aircraft parts and materials.
Peform maintenance and repair on aircraft structures such as wings, tail, and fuselage.
Keep records of maintenance activities and repairs performed.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of aircraft maintenance procedures and regulations
Ability to use a variety of power and hand tools and specialized test equipment
Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, blueprints, and diagrams
Ability to inspect and diagnose aircraft systems, components, and operational status
Ability to troubleshoot and repair aircraft systems, components, and operational failures
Ability to use welding and soldering equipment
Knowledge of aircraft engines and related systems
Knowledge of basic electricity, electronics, hydraulics, pneumatics, fuel systems, and propulsion systems
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Excellent problem solving skills
Strong communication skills
Ability to lift heavy objects

Being a successful Military Aircraft Repairer requires strong technical and problem-solving skills. The ability to troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair complex aircraft systems is essential. Attention to detail is also key, as a single mistake can have a major impact on the safety of pilots and others.

An understanding of aircraft systems and the ability to read and interpret engineering drawings is also necessary. Communication skills are also important as the repairer must be able to clearly convey information to both their superiors and their subordinates. knowledge of safety procedures and safety protocols is critical in order to ensure the aircraft is repaired safely and securely.

An ability to work with a team and share ideas is also essential in this role. these skills combined with strong work ethic, dedication and commitment will help an individual become a successful Military Aircraft Repairer.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with military aircraft repair work?
How familiar are you with safety protocols related to military aircraft repair?
What processes and procedures do you use to troubleshoot aircraft issues?
How do you stay current with the latest aircraft technologies and advancements?
What techniques do you use to maintain and inspect aircraft components?
Describe a time when you had to work through complex repair problems.
How did you handle a situation when you had to work with limited resources?
What methods do you use to diagnose and repair aircraft electrical systems?
How would you handle a difficult customer complaint about an aircraft repair?
What do you think sets you apart from other candidates applying for this job?

Common Tools in Industry

Hand Tools. Used to perform routine maintenance and repairs, such as tightening screws and nuts (eg: screwdriver).
Power Tools. Operated with electricity or compressed air to help complete tasks faster (eg: electric drill).
Test Equipment. Used to measure, analyze, or diagnose components and systems (eg: voltmeter).
Metal Working Tools. Used to shape, bend, and join metal parts (eg: welder).
Portable Hoist. Used to lift heavy components for easier access and repair (eg: chain hoist).
Diagnostic Scanners. Used to quickly detect faults in aircraft systems (eg: OBD scanner).
Lifting Gear. Used to safely lift heavy components and equipment (eg: jacks).
Pneumatic Tools. Powered by compressed air and used for aircraft repairs (eg: rivet gun).
Stripping Tools. Used to remove paint, sealants, and other materials (eg: paint stripper).
Precision Measuring Instruments. Used to measure the accuracy of components (eg: micrometer).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE)
National Air Transportation Association (NATA)
Aircraft Maintenance Technicians Association (AMTA)
National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR)
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading (ISTAT)
Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA)
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
Air Traffic Control Association (ATCA)

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Common Important Terms

Aircraft Structural Repairer. A specialized technician who is responsible for repairing, replacing and maintaining the structural components of aircrafts.
Avionics Technician. A technician who is responsible for inspecting, troubleshooting, repairing and maintaining the electronic systems on aircrafts.
Aircraft Sheet Metal Technician. A technician who specializes in working with sheet metal components of aircrafts and is responsible for repairing, replacing, and fabricating parts.
FAA Certified Repair Station. A facility certified to repair and maintain aircrafts as regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Aerospace Maintenance Technician. A technician who is responsible for inspecting, troubleshooting, repairing and maintaining airframes, engines, and other aircraft systems.
Aviation Maintenance Technician. A technician who is certified to perform maintenance and repairs on aircrafts as regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Aircraft Powerplant Technician. A technician who specializes in the maintenance and repair of aircraft engines and other related components.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Military Aircraft Repairer?

A Military Aircraft Repairer is a specialized technician who inspects, maintains, repairs, and modifies military aircraft in order to ensure they are safe and operational.

What qualifications are needed to become a Military Aircraft Repairer?

Military Aircraft Repairers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must have experience with aircraft mechanics and related technologies. Some employers may require specific certifications or licenses.

What are some of the duties of a Military Aircraft Repairer?

The duties of a Military Aircraft Repairer include inspecting and troubleshooting aircraft systems, repairing and replacing faulty components, performing maintenance checks, and testing systems for proper performance.

How long does it take to become a certified Military Aircraft Repairer?

It usually takes several years of on-the-job training and experience to become a certified Military Aircraft Repairer. In addition, many employers require completion of an apprenticeship program.