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Aircraft Structures Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aircraft Structures Mechanic 3

Iuka, MS ยท On-site

$24.50 - $32.25/hr

Seeking an experienced Manufacturing/Assembly Technician to fabricate, assemble, and inspect structural and hydraulic components using engineering blueprints and precision measuring tools.

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Aircraft Structures Mechanic information

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$47

How much do aircraft structures mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft structures mechanic in the United States is $30.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $36.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Aircraft Structures Mechanics?

Aircraft Structures Mechanics are skilled technicians responsible for repairing, maintaining, and assembling the structural components of aircraft, such as the fuselage, wings, and tail sections. They work with metals, composites, and other materials to ensure that the aircraft's frame remains safe and airworthy. Their duties include inspecting for damage, interpreting technical drawings, and using specialized tools to carry out repairs or modifications according to strict aviation regulations.

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

To thrive as an Aircraft Structures Mechanic, you need expertise in reading blueprints, metal fabrication, and structural repair, typically supported by an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification or equivalent technical training. Proficiency with precision measuring instruments, power tools, and specialized software for maintenance documentation is important. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and strong teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant maintenance of aircraft, which is critical for passenger safety and regulatory adherence.

What are some typical challenges Aircraft Structures Mechanics face when working on modern aircraft models?

Aircraft Structures Mechanics often encounter challenges such as adapting to new materials like advanced composites, which require specialized repair techniques compared to traditional metals. Keeping up with evolving industry standards and intricate structural designs can also be demanding. Additionally, working within tight deadlines to ensure aircraft return to service promptly, while maintaining strict safety and quality standards, is a common expectation. Collaboration with engineers and other maintenance personnel is frequent, especially when troubleshooting complex structural issues.

What is the difference between Aircraft Structures Mechanic vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectAircraft Structures MechanicAircraft Maintenance Technician
CertificationsFAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license, structural repair certificationsFAA A&P license, general maintenance certifications
Work EnvironmentAircraft hangars, repair stations, manufacturing facilitiesAirports, maintenance bases, repair shops
Job FocusRepairing and maintaining aircraft structures, fuselage, wingsPerforming inspections, troubleshooting, and general maintenance
Industry UsageAircraft manufacturing, repair, and overhaulCommercial and private airline maintenance

The main difference is that Aircraft Structures Mechanics specialize in repairing and maintaining aircraft structures like fuselages and wings, often requiring structural certifications. Aircraft Maintenance Technicians perform broader maintenance tasks, including inspections and troubleshooting. Both roles require FAA A&P certification and work in similar environments, but their focus areas differ within the aviation maintenance industry.

More about Aircraft Structures Mechanic jobs
What cities are hiring for Aircraft Structures Mechanic jobs? Cities with the most Aircraft Structures Mechanic job openings:
What states have the most Aircraft Structures Mechanic jobs? States with the most job openings for Aircraft Structures Mechanic jobs include:
Infographic showing various Aircraft Structures Mechanic job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,577 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Special Access Structures Mechanic II with Security Clearance

PDS Defense Inc.

San Antonio, TX โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Special Access Structures Mechanic II Location: San Antonio, TX
Job ID: 216310 Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance Required: Regular and predictable attendance is required Work Schedule * Must be able to work 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shifts based on business needs
Overtime may be required Job Description PDS Defense, Inc. is seeking an experienced Special Access Structures Mechanic II to support aircraft maintenance, repair, and modification activities in San Antonio, TX. This role requires strong technical expertise in aircraft structural repair, heavy structures work, and the ability to interpret engineering documentation to perform complex tasks. The Aircraft Structures Mechanic II maintains, repairs, and modifies aircraft structures and major components, including structural repairs, flight controls, hydraulics, pneumatics, fuel systems, engines, and mechanical systems. The mechanic applies a comprehensive understanding of airframe and power plant systems to diagnose malfunctions and restore aircraft to operational condition. This role may require leading lower-level mechanics and completing aircraft documentation. Position Responsibilities Perform close-tolerance drilling, reaming, removal, and installation in critical support and fracture-critical areas
  • Locate blind holes and install structural components into existing aircraft structure
  • Conduct sealing, painting, shimming, and structural preservation
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, technical orders, and specifications
  • Use computer systems for work instructions, drawings, and training
  • Perform depot-level structural modifications using tooling assemblies and fixtures
  • Troubleshoot and repair aircraft mechanical components, heavy structures, and non-complex electrical systems
  • Use aircraft-specific tools including torque wrenches, micrometers, dial indicators, cable tensiometers, sheet-metal brakes, and shears
  • Submit part requests and discrepancies through online systems
  • Provide guidance to lower-level technicians
  • Operate forklifts, cranes, and powered elevating equipment
Maintain all required certifications and licenses Physical Requirements Ability to climb ladders, work in confined spaces, and lift up to 35 lbs
  • Work on elevated platforms and in high-noise environments
  • Use required PPE (eyes, face, ears, hands, arms)
  • Pass visual acuity and color-perception tests
  • Frequent standing, walking, overhead reaching, bending, squatting, crawling
  • Occasional 2-person lifts for items 50+ lbs
  • Work on uneven surfaces, ladders, and stands
Frequent exposure to metals and noise Required Experience & Qualifications 4+ years of aircraft heavy structures experience
  • 4+ years working with aluminum, titanium, and stainless steel
  • 4+ years interpreting schematics, assembly drawings, specifications, SOPs
  • 4+ years using structure-related hand tools (drills, rivet guns, countersink tools, etc.)
  • Experience installing doublers, stringers, webs, seat tracks, etc.
  • Strong sheet-metal and structural repair knowledge
  • Proficient computer skills
  • Ability to obtain customer access approval
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance
  • Must pass a comprehensive background investigation
This position will require the ability to obtain customer approval for access. Dual citizenship or prior citizenship of any other country may preclude ability to obtain access. A 3rd party background check relating to personal and business finances, residences, employment history, past drug use, prior military service, and criminal behavior will be conducted. Preferred Qualifications VIP/specialty aircraft interior experience (within past 10 years)
  • Depot-level or heavy-structures maintenance experience
  • Experience with Executive Fleet platforms
FAA Airframe and/or Powerplant certification Education High school diploma or GED required Benefits offered to vary by the contract. Depending on your temporary assignment, benefits may include direct deposit, free career counseling services, 401(k), select paid holidays, short-term disability insurance, skills training, employee referral bonus, affordable medical coverage plan, and DailyPay (in some locations). For a full description of benefits available to you, be sure to talk with your recruiter. VEVRAA Federal Contractor / Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals / Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please visit http://www.tadpgs.com/candidate-privacy/ or https://pdsdefense.com/candidate-privacy/ The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable: The California Fair Chance Act Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance