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Do you like working with your hands, solving problems, and keeping things running smoothly? A career as an Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technician could be the perfect fit!
All data shown on this page reflects the six-county Heart of Texas region: Bosque, Falls, Freestone, Hill, Limestone, and McLennan counties.
Postsecondary Nondegree Award
Minimum Education Required
About Aircraft Mechanics & Service Technicians
Career Overview
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians (SOC 49-3011) are essential to the aviation industry, ensuring that aircraft are safe, reliable, and ready for flight. They inspect, maintain, and repair everything from engines and landing gear to electrical and hydraulic systems. These skilled technicians work in hangars, repair stations, and on airfields—playing a critical role in keeping passengers, pilots, and cargo moving safely through the skies.
Starting Annual Salary
2022-2032 Job Growth
Minimum Education
Postsecondary Nondegree Award
Training programs and the HRTX colleges where they are offered are listed below. Click the links to view each college’s program web page.
About Industrial Machinery Mechanics
What do Industrial Machinery Mechanics do?
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians play a big role in keeping air travel safe and on schedule. From inspecting engines to troubleshooting electrical systems, their work is hands-on, detailed, and essential. In this section, you’ll learn what a typical day looks like, the skills and knowledge it takes to succeed, and the types of places you might work—from hangars to airfields. You’ll also see what kind of pay to expect and explore the most common job titles in the field. Use the arrows or click the slider below to lear more about life as an Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technician!
$27,296
2023 Starting Annual Salary
$56,841
2023 Mean Annual Salary
$71,614
2023 Experienced Annual Salary
$13.12
2023 Starting Hourly Wage
$27.33
2023 Mean Hourly Wage
$34.43
2023 Experienced Hourly Wage
Curious what these numbers mean for your future? As an Aircraft Mechanic, you’ll begin your career with solid starting wages—and with more training and experience, your income can increase steadily. Whether you’re entering the field or working toward more advanced roles, this career offers strong financial growth. Want to see how your future salary could support your lifestyle? Try the Texas Reality Check tool linked below.
Aircraft Maintenance Technician
Inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft systems and components to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Line Service Technicians
Prepare aircraft for flight by fueling, towing, cleaning, and handling ground support tasks at airports or hangars.
Fuelers
Refuel aircraft safely and efficiently, monitor fuel levels, and follow strict safety procedures on the ground.
Aircraft Maintenance Managers
Lead teams of technicians, oversee maintenance schedules, and ensure all work meets safety and regulatory standards.
Aircraft Inspectors
Examine aircraft, systems, and parts for wear, damage, or safety issues, ensuring everything meets FAA regulations.
Technicians
Support aircraft maintenance operations by assisting with inspections, repairs, and routine service tasks.
Aircraft mechanics work in a variety of settings—from commercial airlines to private hangars and military bases. Job titles can vary depending on the type of aircraft, systems you work on, and level of experience. Wondering which roles are showing up most in job listings across the Heart of Texas? This list features the top titles employers are hiring for right now—giving you a real-world look at available opportunities in this field.
Inspect Aircraft Components
Check landing gear, hydraulics, and other systems to find cracks, leaks, or damage before problems happen.
Read Technical Manuals
Use manuals, service bulletins, and guides to figure out how to fix or replace damaged parts and systems.
Log Maintenance Work
Keep detailed records of all repairs and inspections so the aircraft’s service history is accurate and complete.
Certify Completed Repairs
Review and sign off on maintenance work to ensure everything meets safety standards before the aircraft returns to service.
Perform Routine Inspections
Complete regular and special safety checks as required to keep aircraft airworthy and up to code.
Modify Aircraft Systems
Follow diagrams and technical instructions to adjust or upgrade aircraft parts, systems, or structures as needed.
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians keep planes in top condition and ready for takeoff. From inspecting engines and replacing worn parts to testing systems and reviewing maintenance logs, their work is precise, hands-on, and safety-focused. Take a look at our list to see what kinds of tasks you might handle on the job each day.
Mechanical
Helps understanding aircraft systems and components, including how they are designed, maintained, repaired, and safely operated.
English Language
Important for reading and interpreting maintenance manuals, safety procedures, and technical documents, as well as for recording detailed repair and inspection notes.
Production & Processing
Aids in maintaining equipment used in manufacturing, quality control, and efficient production.
Mathematics
Needed for measuring components, calculating specifications, and interpreting diagrams with precision in a maintenance environment.
Customer & Personal Service
Useful for communicating effectively with supervisors, flight crews, and customers regarding maintenance needs, timelines, and service quality.
Engineering & Technology
Applies technical principles and tools for inspecting, troubleshooting, and servicing aircraft systems and equipment.
Success in aircraft maintenance starts with a solid understanding of key topics—from how engines work to safety standards and electronics. The list below highlights the most important areas of knowledge for this career. See what you already know—and what you might want to build on—as you explore the world of aviation mechanics.
Equipment Maintenance
Performing regular maintenance on aircraft systems and identifying needed service.
Complex Problem Solving
Evaluating technical issues in aircraft systems and choosing the best solution.
Operations Monitoring
Watching aircraft instruments and indicators to ensure systems function correctly.
Repairing
Fixing aircraft components using proper tools and procedures.
Troubleshooting
Finding the cause of aircraft system issues and deciding how to fix them.
Critical Thinking
Using logic to compare repair options and choose the safest, most effective approach.
Want to know what it takes to thrive as an Aircraft Mechanic? These are the key skills employers are looking for—like precision, critical thinking, and mechanical know-how. If you’re great at solving problems, paying attention to details, and working with tools and tech, these in-demand skills can help you succeed in this high-skill career.
Airport Operations
Work behind the scenes at airports, maintaining aircraft and equipment to keep flights on schedule and running safely.
Communications Equipment Manufacturing
Maintain or install systems that support aircraft navigation, communication, and safety technology.
Support Activities for Air Transportation
Provide essential maintenance and ground services that keep aircraft ready for flight, from fueling to system checks.
Aircraft Engine & Engine Parts Manufacturing
Help build, test, or maintain engines and parts used in commercial, military, or private aircraft.
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
Work for companies that provide specialized maintenance, testing, or consulting services to the aviation industry.
Software Publishers
Support aviation technology by maintaining or testing systems used in flight management, diagnostics, or aircraft software.
Aircraft Mechanics aren’t just found at airports—they’re needed in many different parts of the aviation world. From airline maintenance hangars to manufacturing facilities and government agencies, these professionals help keep aircraft safe and operational. Explore some of the top workplaces in the Heart of Texas and see where this career could take off for you.
Education & Training
What You Need to Become an Industrial Machinery Mechanic
Curious about how to launch a career in aircraft maintenance? This section breaks down the key steps—like getting certified, building hands-on skills, and enrolling in the right programs. You’ll also find local options to help you take off in the Heart of Texas.
Career Entry Options
There’s more than one route into the world of aircraft maintenance. Whether you train through a technical college, serve in the military, or gain supervised on-the-job experience, this section explains your options and what each path requires—so you can find the one that works for you.
Regional Training Programs
Ready to train close to home? In the Heart of Texas, TSTC offers hands-on programs in aircraft maintenance that can prepare you for FAA certification. Whether you choose a certificate or associate degree, you’ll get the real-world skills needed to start your aviation career.
Opportunities & Outlook
Your Future as an Industrial Machinery Mechanic
Aircraft Mechanics keep planes safe and ready for takeoff—and their skills are always in demand. In the Heart of Texas, about 383 people are already working in this hands-on field, with 31 new job openings expected each year.
While the field is growing at a steady pace (projected 6% increase by 2032), these roles don’t flood job boards—averaging just 2 online postings per month—which means having the right training and certifications can really help you stand out. If you’re detail-oriented and love solving mechanical problems, this high-skill career could be your perfect fit.
Projected Growth
Current Job Size
New Jobs Each Year
Monthly Job Postings
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Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
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$27,296
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Postsecondary nondegree award
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Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technologists and Technicians
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Data Not Available
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Associate degree
TSTC Waco Campus
First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers
Manufacturing, Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
$19.28
$40,103
7%
High school diploma or equivalent
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Manufacturing, Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
$19.26
$40,057
18.7%
High school diploma or equivalent
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Machinists
Manufacturing, Manufacturing
$14.31
$29,774
10.6%
High school diploma or equivalent
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$16.23
$33,755
12.9%
High school diploma or equivalent
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