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Aircraft Helper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pilatus Aircraft

Aircraft Paint Technician

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$24.53 - $34.53/hr

Prepares aircraft surfaces by sanding, masking, and priming surfaces for final layout and painting ... Works with and accepts guidance from Leads and higher skilled technicians, while helping to build ...

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Aircraft Helper information

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How much do aircraft helper jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft helper in the United States is $17.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Aircraft Helper, you typically need a high school diploma, basic mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of safety procedures related to aircraft handling. Familiarity with ground support equipment, hand tools, and adherence to aviation safety standards are essential, and some positions may require completion of specific safety training or certifications like OSHA. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations and supporting the maintenance crew in a high-stakes environment.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for an Aircraft Helper and how do they contribute to overall aircraft maintenance operations?

As an Aircraft Helper, your daily responsibilities often include assisting licensed mechanics with routine maintenance, cleaning and organizing tools, moving equipment, and performing basic inspections under supervision. You may also be tasked with preparing aircraft for scheduled maintenance or repairs and ensuring work areas remain safe and compliant with regulations. These tasks are essential, as they help streamline workflows, maintain safety standards, and support the timely completion of aircraft maintenance, directly contributing to the reliability and efficiency of flight operations.

What are Aircraft Helpers?

Aircraft Helpers are entry-level workers who assist aircraft maintenance teams and mechanics at airports or maintenance facilities. Their duties typically include cleaning aircraft parts, moving tools and equipment, organizing workspaces, and helping with basic maintenance tasks under supervision. They play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation and safety of aircraft maintenance processes. This position is often a starting point for those interested in pursuing a career in aviation maintenance.

How to become an avionics technician?

To become an avionics technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a technical training program or an associate degree in avionics, electronics, or a related field. Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), such as the FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License, and hands-on experience are often required or preferred by employers.

Is 40 too old to become an aircraft mechanic?

Age is not a strict barrier to becoming an aircraft mechanic, as many employers value experience and skills over age. Candidates typically need a high school diploma, relevant technical training, and certification such as an FAA Airframe and Powerplant license, which can be obtained at any age. Physical fitness and the ability to work in a maintenance environment are also important considerations.

What is the average salary for an A&P mechanic?

The average salary for an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) mechanic in the United States is approximately $65,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Certification and familiarity with specific aircraft systems can influence earning potential.

What is the difference between Aircraft Helper vs Aircraft Loader?

AspectAircraft HelperAircraft Loader
CertificationsTypically none required or basic safety trainingOften requires safety and equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentAirports, hangars, aircraft tarmacAirports, cargo facilities, aircraft cargo holds
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with aircraft maintenance, cleaning, and basic supportLoading and unloading cargo, baggage, and freight
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, maintenance companiesFreight carriers, cargo airlines

Aircraft Helper and Aircraft Loader roles often overlap in airport environments. While Aircraft Helpers assist with general aircraft support tasks, Aircraft Loaders focus specifically on cargo handling. Both roles require safety awareness and are essential for smooth airport operations, but they differ mainly in responsibilities and certifications.

More about Aircraft Helper jobs
What cities are hiring for Aircraft Helper jobs? Cities with the most Aircraft Helper job openings:
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What states have the most Aircraft Helper jobs? States with the most job openings for Aircraft Helper jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aircraft Helper jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aircraft Helper jobs are:
Aircraft Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aircraft Helper job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $37,276 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Aircraft Mechanic I (Sheet Metal) - Day Shift

Aircraft Mechanic I (Sheet Metal) - Day Shift

Innovative Consulting & Management Services

Elizabeth City, NC • On-site

$23.25 - $30.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description:

Innovative Consulting & Management Services (ICMS) is a Professional & Technical Management Consulting firm with over 20 years of consulting experience. We offer technical professional services to Federal and State Governments, and Commercial clients.


ICMS is a Small Business and Certified HUBZone employer. We deliver value to our clients by combining deep industry knowledge with strong functional capabilities. Our focus is to manage cost-effective programs while at the same time mitigating risk and improving results. Our success is about teamwork, a coordinated effort from all disciplines, from clients to consultants and most important, it’s about delivering on our commitments.


The purpose of this position is to provide aircraft maintenance services to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), Aviation Logistics Center (ALC) for the Short-Range Recovery (SRR) Division. To ensure that aircraft remain in top condition, ALC currently completes program depot maintenance (PDM) (described as a total overhaul of an airframe) every four (4) years on each of the USCG’s aircraft. During this time, the aircraft are completely disassembled, cleaned, repaired, repainted and built back up before returning to the fleet. ALC may also complete overhauls and repairs for various other Government aircraft and components. In support of the USCG’s PDM program, the USCG requires Aircraft Maintenance Services (AMS) to perform the disassembly, maintenance, repair, inspections, evaluations of sheet metal and composite structures, electrical and electrical components, avionics and avionics components, dynamic components, landing gear and flight controls, along with the routing and verification of components, equipment and supplies on the SRR MH-65 aircraft.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The primary responsibilities of the position will include but not limited to:

  • Ability to demonstrate work methods and techniques.
  • Ability to read, understand and apply trade or administrative guides, such as technical manuals, technical orders, blueprints, sketches, and other related documents.
  • Ability to lift, reach, bend, walk, pull, sit, stand, crouch, stoop, kneel and stretch for prolonged periods of time. May be required to work in cramped, awkward and strained positions or required to climb ladders, work platforms, scaffolding and aircraft structures.
  • Knowledge, skill, and ability to follow appropriate safety procedures common to the trade.
  • Knowledge of specific hazardous materials and hazardous wastes procedures is necessary, including the proper fitting and usage of protective gear and completion of related training.
  • Must be able to carry items up to 40 pounds, or heavier with assistance from other workers or weightlifting devices.
  • May be required to wear cumbersome personal protective equipment (PPE) and clothing for Hazardous Material operations.
  • Specialized experience in aviation sheet metal repair and experience related to USCG aircraft specific models is highly desirable.
  • Experience in aircraft sheet metal structures to include maintenance and repair with a minimum of five years practical experience.
  • Technical capability/experience with aircraft, airframes, components and substructures. Should include maintenance of primary, secondary, and tertiary structures.
  • Experience with USCG MH65 aircraft is highly desirable.
  • Technical capability to assist in planned depot maintenance of USCG aviation assets.
  • Ability to conduct research using USCG data systems such as Technical Manual Application System (TMAPS) and Microsoft Office Suite, or similar type systems. A minimum of five (5) years of practical experience is desired.
  • Familiarity with Airbus Helicopters’ Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) manuals or similar OEM manuals, with the ability to research maintenance history, procedures and component limitations are desired.
  • Technical capability to deal with aircraft upgrades and aging aircraft sustainment issues. Experience with new component integration and developing repair and or replacement strategies for airframes, components and/or substructures.
  • Capability to work in regulated areas with toxic materials present including hexavalent chromium and cadmium. This will include use of PPE, such as protective clothing, respirator, etc.
Requirements:
  • Four (5) years of documented experience performing aircraft maintenance on fixed or rotary wing aircraft or demonstrated experience performing aircraft maintenance as an Aircraft Helper on this contract.
  • Four (5) years of documented experience performing aircraft sheet metal repairs on fixed or rotary wing aircraft.
  • Ability to operate all GSE equipment associated with fixed wing airframes (scissor lift, etc.)
  • Gas Free Engineer qualified
  • Forklift qualified
  • High school diploma or equivalent (unless higher education is required for a particular job category).
  • Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English fluently.
  • Shall be citizens of the U.S.
  • Possess computer skills to include a basic knowledge sufficient to complete internet searches and prepare/edit documents utilizing word processing or spreadsheet applications.
  • Shall be capable of performing tasks that frequently require lifting, reaching, bending, walking, pulling, sitting, standing, crouching, stooping, kneeling, and stretching for prolonged periods of time.
  • Shall be capable of performing tasks in cramped, awkward, and strained positions and/or climbing up and down ladders, work platforms, scaffolding, and aircraft structures.
  • Shall be capable of carrying items up to 40 pounds and on heavier items shall seek assistance of other workers or weightlifting devices.
  • Shall be capable of using cumbersome Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Hazardous Material (HAZMAT) operations.

Full-time Day Shift

Pay Rate: $44.45/hr.

Location: 1664 Weeksville Road, Elizabeth City, NC 27909

Benefits:

  • Health & Welfare Benefits as covered by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance 75% covered by employer or opt-out option
  • Short Term Disability
  • Voluntary Life Insurance for purchase
  • 401K Retirement plan with matching
  • Generous sick and vacation leave based on seniority aligned to the CBA
  • Any additional benefits as described in the CBA

ICMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability or veteran status, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.