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Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Jobs in California

Joby Aviation

Maintenance Engineer

Santa Cruz, CA

$115K - $155K/yr

With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, we're now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service. This Maintenance Engineer role is focused on developing ...

Joby Aviation

Maintenance Engineer

Santa Cruz, CA

$115K - $155K/yr

With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, we're now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service. Overview This Maintenance Engineer role is focused on ...

Joby Aviation

Maintenance Engineer

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$115K - $155K/yr

With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, we're now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service. Overview This Maintenance Engineer role is focused on ...

Aero

Aircraft Maintenance Technician

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$37 - $45/hr

ABOUT THIS ROLE Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (AMT) are FAA certificated Airframe and Powerplant ... apprentices * Conduct all tasks in a safe and efficient manner complying with all local, state ...

Aero

Aircraft Maintenance Technician

Los Angeles, CA

$37 - $45/hr

ABOUT THIS ROLE Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (AMT) are FAA certificated Airframe and Powerplant ... apprentices * Conduct all tasks in a safe and efficient manner complying with all local, state ...

Aero

Aircraft Maintenance Technician

Los Angeles, CA

$37 - $45/hr

ABOUT THIS ROLE Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (AMT) are FAA certificated Airframe and Powerplant ... apprentices * Conduct all tasks in a safe and efficient manner complying with all local, state ...

Pivotal

Senior Maintenance Engineer

Palo Alto, CA

$122K - $168K/yr

Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been flying for over 10 years ... Responsibilities: Maintenance Engineering & Continued Airworthiness * Lead development and ...

Pivotal

Senior Maintenance Engineer

Palo Alto, CA

$118K - $137K/yr

Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been flying for over 10 years ... Responsibilities: Maintenance Engineering & Continued Airworthiness * Lead development and ...

Pivotal

Senior Maintenance Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been flying for over 10 years ... Responsibilities: Maintenance Engineering & Continued Airworthiness * Lead development and ...

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Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer information

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How much do apprentice aircraft maintenance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice aircraft maintenance engineer in California is $19.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer do?

An Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer assists qualified engineers with maintaining, repairing, and inspecting aircraft to ensure they are safe and airworthy. This role involves hands-on learning while studying aviation regulations, systems, and maintenance procedures. Apprentices work under supervision, gradually taking on more complex tasks as they gain experience and knowledge. The apprenticeship usually combines classroom instruction with practical on-the-job training, preparing candidates for certification as licensed aircraft maintenance engineers.

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

To thrive as an Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, basic engineering principles, and typically a relevant diploma or entry-level qualification in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with maintenance manuals, aircraft diagnostic tools, and compliance with aviation safety regulations is essential, and working toward certifications like EASA Part-66 or FAA A&P is common. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure aircraft are safely maintained to regulatory standards, reducing risks and ensuring operational reliability.

What is the difference between Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer vs Aircraft Maintenance Engineer?

AspectApprentice Aircraft Maintenance EngineerAircraft Maintenance Engineer
CertificationsTypically in training, may hold basic certificationsFully certified, licensed to perform maintenance
Work EnvironmentOn-the-job training, supervised tasksIndependent maintenance and repairs
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, airlines, maintenance companiesAirlines, maintenance facilities, aerospace industry

The main difference is that an Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer is in training and gaining experience, while an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer is fully qualified and authorized to perform maintenance independently. Apprentices develop skills under supervision, whereas licensed engineers handle complete maintenance tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineers during their training period?

Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineers often encounter challenges such as adjusting to the fast-paced, safety-critical environment of an active hangar. Balancing hands-on technical tasks with ongoing theoretical learning can be demanding, especially when adhering to strict regulatory standards. Additionally, apprentices must quickly develop strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with experienced engineers, supervisors, and other team members. Overcoming these challenges helps build a solid foundation for a successful career in aircraft maintenance.
What are the most commonly searched types of Aircraft Maintenance Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Aircraft Maintenance Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer jobs in California? For Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer job openings:
Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,254 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Aircraft Maintenance Apprentice

Joby Aviation

Watsonville, CA • On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Company Overview
Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. At Joby, we've been working to make that dream a reality since 2009 and we're now in the final stages of certifying our aircraft with the FAA. With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, we're now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service.
Overview
Joby is seeking passionate individuals for a paid Aircraft Maintenance Apprenticeship. If you are motivated to establish yourself on the path to a new career in aircraft maintenance, we encourage you to apply. Individuals with the aptitude or skill for hands-on mechanical work and a passion for aviation may be a great fit for this opportunity.
This apprenticeship provides the opportunity to "earn while you learn". Get paid while you gain work experience and skills in aviation maintenance! This 1-3 year paid apprenticeship includes on-the-job training at competitive wages, valuable work experience, and the chance to help build the future of sustainable, electric aviation.
Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, you will complete the required certification exams to receive your FAA Mechanic certification with Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) ratings before transitioning to a full-time position at Joby. Take the first step toward a rewarding career.
YouTube Video:
Workforce Achievement Award - Joby Aviation
Responsibilities
  • Aircraft maintenance, including building aircraft and maintaining aircraft
  • Working hands-on in an aircraft maintenance environment as a team member
  • Aerospace manufacturing
  • Drawing interpretation
  • Tool control
  • Use of hand tools and power tools
  • Follow safety protocols and contribute to maintaining a clean and organized work area, promoting a safe and efficient working environment
  • Document and record maintenance data, including material usage and basic process parameters, while learning how to maintain accurate records
  • Ability to work flexible hours and different shifts as required
  • Follow all environmental health and safety practices
  • Other duties as assigned

Required
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent
  • The desire and ability to learn new things and acquire new skills
  • Ability to follow safe work practices
  • Ability to learn quickly
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds
  • Great attention to detail
  • Basic problem solving, communication, and critical thinking skills
  • Basic computer knowledge
  • Ability to read work orders, blueprints, and specifications in English
  • Capable of basic mathematical calculations
  • Ability to work flexible hours and different shifts as required
  • Must be able to reliably commute to our Watsonville, CA and Marina, CA locations daily

Employment sponsorship and relocation are not available.
Desired
Experience/interest in any of the following skills:
  • Aircraft maintenance
  • Aerospace manufacturing
  • Automotive technology
  • Knowledge of basic hand tools
  • Fabrication
  • 3-D Printing, CNC operation, or robotics
  • Any hands-on, skilled trade or craft (i.e., woodworking, sewing, fiberglass, etc.)

Additional Information
Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $21-35/hr. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.
Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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