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Contract Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Aircraft Maintenance SME

Arlington, VA · On-site

$36 - $46.50/hr

Aircraft Maintenance Subject Matter Expert About the Organization Now is a great time to join ... This is not a contract and may be adjusted as deemed appropriate in Redhorse's sole discretion. EOE ...

Navy Aircraft maintenance operations at NAS Oceana, VA. Must be able to work rotating shifts and ... About Amentum Amentum is a global leader in advanced engineering and innovative technology ...

Navy Aircraft maintenance operations at NAS Oceana, VA. Must be able to work rotating shifts and ... About Amentum Amentum is a global leader in advanced engineering and innovative technology ...

Aircraft Worker Line

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

Navy Aircraft maintenance operations at NAS Oceana, VA. Must be able to work rotating shifts and ... About Amentum Amentum is a global leader in advanced engineering and innovative technology ...

$27.25 - $35.75/hr

The selected candidate will work closely with engineers, flight test personnel, and maintenance teams to execute aircraft modifications, potentially support flight operations, and maintain aircraft ...

Aircraft Worker Line

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

Navy Aircraft maintenance operations at NAS Oceana, VA. Must be able to work rotating shifts and ... About Amentum Amentum is a global leader in advanced engineering and innovative technology ...

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Contract Aircraft Maintenance Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$48.1K

$80.1K

$118K

How much do contract aircraft maintenance engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract aircraft maintenance engineer in Virginia is $80,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,900.00 and $94,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract aircraft maintenance engineer?

Contract Aircraft Maintenance Engineers are licensed professionals who perform maintenance, repairs, and inspections on aircraft under temporary or fixed-term agreements, rather than as permanent employees. They ensure that aircraft are airworthy and meet all safety and regulatory standards. These engineers may work for airlines, maintenance organizations, or on specific projects, often traveling to various locations as needed. Their roles require technical expertise, flexibility, and up-to-date certifications to legally sign off on completed work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract aircraft maintenance engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, you need a solid background in aircraft systems, troubleshooting, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by an accredited engineering degree and relevant aviation maintenance licenses (such as EASA Part-66 or FAA A&P certification). Proficiency in maintenance tracking software, diagnostic tools, and familiarity with specific aircraft manufacturer manuals is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for ensuring safety and collaboration with diverse teams. These competencies are crucial to maintain aircraft airworthiness, meet regulatory standards, and deliver timely, high-quality maintenance services in a contract setting.

What are some common challenges faced by contract aircraft maintenance engineers, and how can they be managed?

Contract Aircraft Maintenance Engineers often encounter the challenge of quickly adapting to new teams, work environments, and company-specific procedures. Since contract assignments can vary in duration and scope, engineers must be flexible and proactive in learning different aircraft types and maintenance protocols. Building strong communication skills and maintaining up-to-date certifications are essential to ensure seamless integration and compliance with safety standards. Staying organized and fostering good relationships with permanent staff can also help overcome the challenges of frequent transitions between projects.

What is the difference between Contract Aircraft Maintenance Engineer vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectContract Aircraft Maintenance EngineerAircraft Maintenance Technician
CertificationsTypically holds licenses like EASA Part-66 or FAA A&P, often with additional contract-specific qualificationsUsually licensed with similar certifications (EASA or FAA), focusing on specific aircraft types
Work EnvironmentWorks on a contractual basis, often at multiple locations or for short-term projectsEmployed by airlines, maintenance companies, or repair stations, working at fixed facilities or on-site
Employer & Industry UsageHired by airlines, maintenance providers, or contractors for specialized or temporary workEmployed directly by airlines or maintenance organizations for ongoing maintenance tasks

The main difference is that Contract Aircraft Maintenance Engineers work on a temporary, contractual basis across various locations, while Aircraft Maintenance Technicians are typically employed full-time by organizations for regular maintenance tasks. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but their employment arrangements differ.

What job categories do people searching Contract Aircraft Maintenance Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Aircraft Maintenance Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Contract Aircraft Maintenance Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Contract Aircraft Maintenance Engineer job openings:

Supervisor - Aircraft Maintenance

Washington, VA • On-site


United Airlines, Inc.
Aviation • 10K+ employees

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 342 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 26 rated airlines

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$87K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description
At United, we have some of the best aircraft in the world. Our Technical Operations team is full of aircraft maintenance technicians, engineers, planners, ground equipment and facilities professionals, and supply chain teams that help make sure they're well taken care of and ready to get our customers to their desired destinations. If you're ready to work on our planes, join our Tech Ops experts and help keep our fleet in tip-top shape.
Job overview and responsibilities
Responsible for the supervision and coordination of all maintenance functions on shift at the assigned location ensuring these activities are performed in a safe manner in accordance with schedule requirements and in compliance with all established Company, regulatory and manufacturers procedures. Assigns aircraft maintenance technician and related personnel in accordance with requirements to achieve maximum productivity and cost control. Ensures their team has the appropriate resources available and holds them accountable for the work assigned/performed.
  • Provide leadership and direction to on shift labor workforce to maximize productivity and output whilst ensuring necessary resources are available
  • Build / reinforce a fair and respectful work environment through consistent application of CBA work rules and company policies
  • Execute station performance goals and objectives aligning with divisional and company goals
  • Maintain a high level of awareness of operational, safety and human resource related performance objectives
  • Oversee safety and security of aircraft and operations to ensure regulatory compliance of technical operations activities
  • Maintain a high level of communication with employee groups within the station
  • Report status of operations, highlighting significant events to leadership whilst providing direction to assigned station personnel to ensure station and divisional objectives are achieved

Qualifications
What's needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications):
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • FAA A&P Certificate
  • Valid driver's license
  • 5 years in the aircraft maintenance industry
  • Meets or exceeds operational performance goals including on-time performance, maintenance check span, productivity & safety objectives
  • Identifies the need for change and / or improvement and takes corrective action or works with leadership to resolve issues
  • Builds and maintains professional and productive work environment for labor groups and supervisor team
  • Effectively communicates with employees aligning the team for success
  • Extensive knowledge of aircraft maintenance operations and applicable FAA regulations
  • Identifying and understanding issues, problems, and opportunities; comparing data from different sources to draw conclusions; using effective approaches for choosing a course of action or developing appropriate solutions; taking action that is consistent with available facts, constraints, and probable consequences
  • Having achieved a satisfactory level of technical and professional skill or knowledge in position-related areas; keeping up with current developments and trends in areas of expertise
  • Setting high standards of performance; assuming responsibility and accountability for completing assignments or tasks; self-imposing standards of excellence rather than having standards imposed
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship
  • Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification
  • Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position

What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications):
  • Bachelor's degree or 4 years of relevant work experience
  • Aviation Management, Engineering, Business, or related field
  • 2 years in a leadership role within a maintenance organization including a unionized labor workforce
  • A proven successful track record
  • Strong background and technical knowledge on fleet types operated and maintenance programs

United Airlines logo

About United Airlines

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

United Airlines is embarking on an exciting journey to become the best airline in aviation history. Our purpose, "Connecting People, Uniting the World," extends beyond transportation, emphasizing our commitment to uplift and create opportunities in the places we serve. With a global presence and diverse workforce, we value inclusivity and are dedicated to hiring tens of thousands of individuals across various roles. Our comprehensive benefits package, including perks like space available travel, parental leave, and 401k, aims to support your well-being and growth.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1926

Social media


What United Airlines employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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