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Aircraft Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Aircraft Mechanic II - PHF (ATAC)

Newport News, VA · On-site

$26 - $34.25/hr

The Aircraft Mechanic will also participate in inert ordnance loading, arming and downloading on ... Development and training of Apprentice Aviation Mechanics. Foster maintenance team environment.

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Aircraft Apprentice information

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$12

$21

$36

How much do aircraft apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft apprentice in Virginia is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Aircraft Apprentice Do?

The specific job duties of an aircraft apprentice depend on their area of specialization. An aspiring pilot may apprentice with a professional pilot and undergo training in taking flight, aircraft safety, and airport communications. Aircraft mechanic or technician apprenticeships focus on airplane maintenance and repair. Airframe and powerplant mechanics (A&P mechanics) often start their careers as apprentices. You can find apprenticeship opportunities in aircraft manufacturing, where you shadow employees and observe operations in making the different parts of aircraft. Specialized apprenticeships are also available for aviation engineers and electronics or avionics installers, which generally involve assisting professionals in the field with drafting and installing aviation systems.

What are Aircraft Apprentices?

Aircraft Apprentices are individuals who are undergoing training to become skilled aircraft maintenance engineers or technicians. During their apprenticeship, they work under the guidance of experienced professionals to learn how to inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft systems and components. The program typically combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience, ensuring apprentices gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Upon successful completion, apprentices often earn certifications that qualify them for full-time positions in the aviation industry.

What is the difference between Aircraft Apprentice vs Aircraft Technician?

AspectAircraft ApprenticeAircraft Technician
Required CredentialsTypically a vocational or technical diploma, on-the-job trainingUsually a diploma or certification in aircraft maintenance or related field
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasks, entry-levelHands-on maintenance, troubleshooting, repair in hangars or on aircraft
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, maintenance companies, military training programsAirlines, maintenance facilities, aerospace companies

Aircraft apprentices are in training, focusing on learning aircraft maintenance under supervision. Aircraft technicians are experienced professionals performing maintenance and repairs. Both roles are essential in the aviation industry, with apprentices progressing toward becoming certified technicians.

What are some common challenges faced by Aircraft Apprentices during their training period?

Aircraft Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced and safety-focused environment of aviation maintenance. Balancing hands-on technical tasks with theoretical learning can be demanding, especially when working under the supervision of experienced engineers. Additionally, apprentices must develop strong attention to detail and effective communication skills to collaborate safely and efficiently with team members. Staying updated with evolving technologies and regulations is also essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aircraft Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aircraft Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of aircraft systems, strong mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, often supported by enrollment in an aviation maintenance program. Familiarity with hand tools, diagnostic equipment, and aviation maintenance documentation systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork stand out as crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safety, accuracy, and collaboration in maintaining and repairing aircraft.
What are the most commonly searched types of Aircraft jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Aircraft jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Aircraft Apprentice jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Aircraft Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Aircraft Apprentice job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,413 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
APPRENTICE

$50K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Huntington Ingalls Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Huntington Ingalls Industries

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 74,318 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Req ID: 42110
Team: O22 THE APPRENTICE SCH
Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding
US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes
Full-Time
Shift: 1st
Relocation: No relocation assistance available
Virtual/Telework Opportunity: No - Not eligible for telework
Travel Requirements: No
Clearance Required: No - Clearance Not Required to Start
Salary Range: $50,856.00 to $74,172.80
The anticipated salary range represents the estimated base pay for this role. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors, and may vary from the posted range
Meet HII's Newport News Shipbuilding
With more than 25,000 employees - including third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division is the largest industrial employer in Virginia. We're the sole designer, builder and refueler of U.S. Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and one of two providers of U.S. Navy nuclear submarines. Our diverse and innovative team of professionals ranges from skilled trades to project managers, engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and system users. We collaborate together at the forefront of technology, manufacturing, and integration of the most powerful and survivable naval ships in the world. Want to be part of the team? Apply today! We look forward to meeting you.
The Role
The Apprentice School is an educational and career opportunity unlike any other. The School provides high quality, comprehensive 4 and 5-year apprentice programs for students interested in shipbuilding careers. Since 1919, our programs have produced over 10,000 graduates in support of the operational needs of Newport News Shipbuilding. Every day, our more than 800 apprentices push new boundaries of achievement and explore new opportunities in a complex and challenging workplace. Building and maintaining nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines for the United States Navy that will defend our country for years to come is not only a rewarding experience but also an excellent opportunity for apprentices to learn about heavy manufacturing and construction in the most modern shipbuilding facility in the world.
Must Have
To be considered for admission to The Apprentice School, an applicant must have a high school diploma or GED with a minimum of four units passed with a C or better in any combination of the following subjects: Algebra, Algebra 2, Geometry, Advanced Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Mechanical Drawing, Vocational/Technical Education, Computer Science and Principles of Technology.
A 'unit' is considered to be one year of high school study or its equivalent.
  • Must be physically able to perform the duties required in the trade requested or assigned.
  • Must be drug free and have a background that will allow the company to obtain the proper government-furnished security clearance. U.S. citizenship required.

For further information, please visit us at www.as.edu.
Nice to Have
  • Demonstrated college readiness in Math and English is preferred.
  • Applicants may submit post-secondary (college/university) transcripts that indicate readiness in math and English.
  • College readiness (placement/outcomes in Math and English can be obtained from your local community college testing center and results submitted with application to The Apprentice School admissions office.

Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. HII's diverse workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Working at HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a future. We offer comprehensive benefits including: medical, prescription drug, dental and vision plan choices, on-site health centers, tele-medicine, wellness resources, employee assistance programs, savings plan options (401K), financial education and planning tools, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships, and more. Some benefits may vary depending on your specific division or work location.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. U.S. Citizenship may be required for certain positions.
Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this e-mail address.
Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #2 for Newport News Shipbuilding.

Working at Huntington Ingalls Industries

About Huntington Ingalls Industries, in their own words

From Huntington Ingalls Industries

Our 44,000-strong team includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence and machine learning experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals. Recognized as one of America's top large employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Here you'll find a collaborative environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs that span our shipbuilding apprentice schools in Virginia and Mississippi to tuition reimbursement programs that support continual career growth at every stage of your career.

Our values of integrity, safety, respect, engagement, responsibility and performance are the foundation of HII's ethical culture that inspires employees to do the right thing each day, regardless of the circumstances.


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