Description

An aircraft maintenance engineer (AME) is a person who performs mechanics at a level of skilled craftsman as well as assisting with the maintenance, repair of, building, and maintenance of aircraft. The regular responsibilities of an engineer in the field of aircraft maintenance include executing daily aircraft maintenance and overhaul plans and assessing the condition of different engines and aircraft, as well as finishing repair and replacing. They are required to follow their company's approved maintenance protocols and may have to travel on aircraft as an engineer on the flight. They are expected to oversee the work of a variety of air mechanics.

A maintenance engineer for aircrafts should have a thorough understanding of procedures for maintenance and inspection methods, as well the materials and parts used in aircraft, as well as rules governing the compatibility of these parts with registered planes. They should be able to identify and/or record information for aircrafts and be aware of the measurement instruments and test equipment. A basic understanding of safety procedures and fire safety is essential.

A maintenance engineer for aircrafts must possess an aircraft maintenance engineer's license along with several years of on-the-job training in the field of air mechanics or as a trades assistant. Technical school and on-the-job education totalling three years can be considered.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer AME with 3-6 years of experience in the United States, your main responsibilities include:

  • Conducting thorough inspections and evaluations of aircraft systems and components to ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintenance standards.
  • Troubleshooting and diagnosing mechanical, electrical, and avionic issues using advanced tools and equipment.
  • Performing scheduled and unscheduled maintenance tasks, including component replacement, system repairs, and calibration adjustments.
  • Documenting all maintenance activities accurately and comprehensively, adhering to strict record-keeping procedures and reporting any discrepancies to the appropriate authorities.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Extensive technical knowledge and expertise in aircraft maintenance and repair procedures to identify, troubleshoot, and rectify mechanical and electrical issues.
  • Proficient understanding of aviation regulations and safety protocols to ensure compliance and adherence to maintenance standards.
  • Strong problem-solving skills to assess and resolve complex maintenance issues efficiently, minimizing downtime and maximizing aircraft operational capability.
  • Excellent attention to detail and meticulousness in performing inspections, maintenance checks, and record-keeping to ensure accurate documentation and regulatory compliance.

Essential Skills For Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME)

1

Safety Procedures

2

Engineering Support

3

Mechanics

Career Prospects

The role of an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer AME with 3-6 years of experience in the United States is vital for ensuring the safety and maintenance of aircraft. Here are following alternative roles to consider:

  • Quality Assurance Engineer: A position that involves implementing and maintaining quality management systems, conducting audits, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
  • Production Planning Coordinator: A role focusing on coordinating and optimizing aircraft maintenance schedules, resource allocation, and workflow management.
  • Technical Trainer: A position that involves developing and delivering training programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of maintenance staff.
  • Aviation Safety Inspector: A role with regulatory authorities or aviation agencies responsible for inspecting, evaluating, and enforcing compliance with safety standards and regulations in the aviation industry.

How to Learn

The projected growth of Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) position in the United States is promising. The job role is expected to experience a steady growth rate in the market over the next 10 years. According to Google data, the employment opportunities for AMEs are anticipated to increase significantly, with a rising demand for skilled professionals in the aviation industry. This demand is driven by factors such as technological advancements in aircraft systems and an increase in air travel. With an optimistic outlook, the AME role is expected to offer an abundance of career opportunities in the coming years.