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Entry Level Aircraft Mechanic Jobs in Reston, VA

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Rockville, MD

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M&J is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater ... In this entry-level role, you will receive training and guidance to learn how to perform ...

Entry Level Aircraft Mechanic information

See Reston, VA salary details

$19

$33

$46

How much do entry level aircraft mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level aircraft mechanic in Reston, VA is $33.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.75 and $37.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level aircraft mechanic do?

As an entry-level aircraft mechanic, or an aviation maintenance technician (AMT), your responsibilities revolve around the maintenance and repair of an airplane. Your duties involve inspecting a plane before takeoff and after landing, checking hydraulics, exhaust systems, electronics, and landing gear, monitoring fluid levels, using hand tools and heavy equipment to make repairs, troubleshooting specific issues, performing post-maintenance tests, and documenting reports in a repair log. You also fix the engine when necessary. An entry-level aircraft mechanic may work on a variety of aircraft, but you must ensure that all of your routine and non-routine maintenance meets FAA regulations.

What typical career progression can an entry level aircraft mechanic expect within the aviation industry?

Entry Level Aircraft Mechanics often start by performing basic maintenance tasks under supervision, such as inspections, repairs, and parts replacements. With experience and additional certifications (like the FAA Airframe and Powerplant license), mechanics can advance to more complex troubleshooting, specialized systems work, or supervisory roles. Many mechanics eventually move into lead technician, inspector, or maintenance supervisor positions, and some transition into related fields like quality assurance or technical training. Advancement typically depends on gaining hands-on experience, pursuing ongoing education, and demonstrating reliability and teamwork.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level aircraft mechanic, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Aircraft Mechanic, you need a solid understanding of aircraft systems, mechanical aptitude, and typically a certification such as an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license or completion of an aviation maintenance program. Familiarity with maintenance manuals, diagnostic tools, and computerized maintenance tracking systems is often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills help individuals excel in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure aircraft safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient maintenance operations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Aircraft Mechanic vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectEntry Level Aircraft MechanicAircraft Maintenance Technician
CertificationsFAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license (entry-level)FAA A&P license often required; some roles may accept apprenticeships
Work EnvironmentAirports, hangars, maintenance facilitiesAirports, repair stations, maintenance shops
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, private operators, maintenance providersCommercial airlines, private aviation, military

Both roles involve aircraft inspection, repair, and maintenance, often requiring FAA certification. An Entry Level Aircraft Mechanic typically refers to someone starting in the field, performing basic tasks under supervision, while an Aircraft Maintenance Technician may have similar responsibilities but can also include more specialized or advanced tasks depending on experience. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Aircraft Maintenance Technician' may imply a broader scope of work or certification level.

How to become an entry level aircraft mechanic with no experience?

To become an entry-level aircraft mechanic, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school or program. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships and obtaining the FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification are essential steps to qualify for entry-level positions in the field.

What do entry level aircraft mechanics make?

Entry level aircraft mechanics typically earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location and employer. They often need certifications such as the FAA Airframe and Powerplant license and work in maintenance hangars or repair stations, gaining experience with tools and aircraft systems.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aircraft Mechanic jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Aircraft Mechanic jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Aircraft Mechanic jobs in Reston, VA?

For Entry Level Aircraft Mechanic jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Aircraft Mechanic jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Aircraft Mechanic jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Entry Level Aircraft Mechanic jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Entry Level Aircraft Mechanic job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Aircraft Mechanic job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,840 per year, or $33.6 per hour.

Airport Services Baggage Unjammer - Dulles International Airport - IAD

Oshkosh Corporation

Dulles, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 6 days ago


Oshkosh Corporation rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

287th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

About Oshkosh AeroTech, an Oshkosh company

Oshkosh AeroTech is a leading provider of aviation ground support products, gate equipment and airport services to commercial airlines, airports, air-freight carriers, ground handling and military customers. Oshkosh AeroTech offers products that make a difference in people's lives by supporting those in our communities who do some of the toughest work. They own many of the most trusted brands in the air transportation industry, including LEKTRO, JetAire, JetPower, AmpTekO, Jetway, and more.

OUR BENEFITS

As a member of the Oshkosh Aero Tech Airport Services team you'll enjoy a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage.

This position is located at the Dulles International Airport in Dulles, Virginia

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Respond to and clear faults that occur with the baggage handling system in a timely manner.
  • Transport baggage within the baggage handling area.
  • Report any issues found that could potentially lead to additional system failures.
  • Complete entry level Maintenance Mechanic duties as needed.
  • Assist with operational issues during outages or failures.
  • Lift up to 70 lbs. on a regular basis.
  • Ability to work productively and cohesively in a diverse and multicultural environment.
  • Comply with company safety program and trainings.
  • Perform other duties as assigned or needed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work environment is similar to airport operation with vehicular traffic. The employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts, outside weather conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, cold, and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. Employees will work on an airport ramp around aircrafts and around heavy equipment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of a Bag Jam Clearer, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands and fingers to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 49 pounds.

Ability to work in outside weather conditions on an airport ramp around aircrafts and the confined areas of baggage conveyor systems. Specific vision abilities required by this job include good close proximity vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Good hand / eye coordination is required.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Valid Driver's License.
  • Airport experience a plus.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Ability to communicate in English; both verbal and written.
  • Ability to be badged to work in secure areas of an airport.
  • Ability to workDay or Nightshift including weekends and holidays.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Oshkosh Corporation is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. This company will provide equal opportunity to all individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Information collected regarding categories as provided by law will in no way affect the decision regarding an employment application.

Oshkosh Corporation will not discharge or in any manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with Oshkosh Corporation's legal duty to furnish information.

Oshkosh is committed to working with and offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability for any part of the recruitment process, please contact our talent acquisition team by email corporatetalentacquisition@oshkoshcorp.com.

Oshkosh Corporation is a merit-based Equal Opportunity Employer.Job opportunities are open for application to all qualified individuals and selection decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic. To the extent that information is provided or collected regarding categories as provided by law it will in no way affect the decision regarding an employment application.

Oshkosh Corporation will not discharge or in any manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with Oshkosh Corporation's legal duty to furnish information.

Certain positions with Oshkosh Corporation require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or granted asylum.


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