Aircraft mechanics and service technicians
Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul aircraft engines and assemblies, such as hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
BLS SOC 49-3011 · O*NET-SOC 49-3011.00 · BLS 2025–2035 · O*NET 31.0
Median annual wage, 2025
$79,870
Projected change, 2025–2035
5.4%
2025–2035 annual average openings
11,400
AI exposure
Low
Editorial analysis
Aircraft are becoming better at reporting their own health
Modern aircraft produce large amounts of maintenance and operational data. AI can analyze those signals to identify patterns that suggest a component is degrading, help technicians search maintenance documentation, and prioritize inspections before a fault becomes an operational problem.
A prediction does not sign off the aircraft
Aviation maintenance operates under strict procedures because small errors can have enormous consequences. Mechanics must inspect physical components, use approved methods, verify repairs, document work, and determine whether the aircraft is safe to return to service.
- Predictive maintenance can move some repairs earlier in the failure cycle.
- AI can make large technical manuals easier to search.
- Computer vision may assist inspection for cracks, corrosion, wear, or damage.
- Hands-on inspection, repair, regulatory compliance, and certification preserve a substantial human role.
Mechanics who understand advanced avionics, digital diagnostics, composite materials, and data-driven maintenance systems may be particularly well positioned as aircraft become more connected and technically complex.
Labor-market picture
Two measures, different questions
These measures offer two different ways to understand the occupation: BLS projections show how national employment may change over time, while relative AI exposure highlights where tasks may intersect with AI-related capabilities. Read them with the work profile and your local context to decide what deserves closer investigation.
Employment
- Employment, 2025
- 140,000 jobs
- Projected employment, 2035
- 147,600 jobs
- Projected change, 2025–2035
- 7,500 jobs (5.4%)
Relative AI exposure
BLS category: Low. This is a relative task-exposure classification, not a forecast of employment change, automation, wages, or worker replacement.
Relative AI exposure · Low
Work profile
Representative tasks
These task statements come from O*NET 31.0. They are source facts, not labels assigned by the AI exposure measure.
- Inspect completed work to certify that maintenance meets standards and that aircraft are ready for operation.
- Read and interpret maintenance manuals, service bulletins, and other specifications to determine the feasibility and method of repairing or replacing malfunctioning or damaged components.
- Maintain repair logs, documenting all preventive and corrective aircraft maintenance.
- Examine and inspect aircraft components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, and deicers to locate cracks, breaks, leaks, or other problems.
- Conduct routine and special inspections as required by regulations.
- Replace or repair worn, defective, or damaged components, using hand tools, gauges, and testing equipment.
Skills that matter
Skills in the source profile
Importance uses O*NET's 1–5 scale. Level uses its 0–7 scale. Select a skill to see its source definition and reported values.
Technology and tools
These technology records come from O*NET and show software or tools reported in the occupation profile. They describe work context, not a required checklist for every employer.
- Facilities management software
- Analytical or scientific software
- Information retrieval or search software
- Accounting software
- Compiler and decompiler software
- Spreadsheet software
- Office suite software
- Electronic mail software
Preparation
- Typical entry education
- Postsecondary nondegree award
- Related experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- None
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Source provenance
Labor-market and exposure facts: bls-ep-2025-35. Work profile: onet-31.0. Verify release details on the Sources page.