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F 16 Crew Chief Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Collaborate with crew chiefs, avionics, propulsion, and armament specialists to support integrated ... F-16 * Completion of USAF Aircraft Structural Maintenance (3-level) technical training or ...

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F 16 Crew Chief information

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How much do f 16 crew chief jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for f 16 crew chief in the United States is $21.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become an F 16 Crew Chief?

To become an F 16 Crew Chief, you typically need to join the military, such as the Air Force, and complete basic training followed by specialized technical training in aircraft maintenance. Candidates should have a high school diploma or equivalent, pass security and medical clearances, and develop skills in aircraft systems, troubleshooting, and maintenance procedures.

What does a typical work day look like for an F 16 crew chief?

A typical day as an F 16 Crew Chief involves conducting pre- and post-flight inspections, troubleshooting and repairing aircraft systems, and performing scheduled maintenance and documentation. You'll coordinate with pilots and other crew members to ensure the aircraft is mission-ready, responding promptly to any mechanical or technical issues that arise. The work is often hands-on and may include both daytime and nighttime shifts, sometimes in demanding weather or field conditions. You’ll work closely within a team, relying on clear communication and collaboration to maintain the highest safety standards and operational readiness.

How much do F 16 Crew Chiefs get paid?

F 16 Crew Chiefs in the military typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and years of service. They also receive benefits such as housing allowances, healthcare, and special duty pay, with opportunities for overtime and career advancement.

What does an F 16 crew chief do?

An F-16 crew chief is responsible for maintaining and inspecting F-16 fighter jets to ensure they are flight-ready. They perform routine maintenance, troubleshoot mechanical issues, and oversee safety protocols, often working with specialized tools and following strict military procedures.

Is F 16 Crew Chief a hard job?

The F 16 Crew Chief role is physically demanding and requires technical skills to maintain and repair fighter jets. It involves working in challenging environments, often with irregular hours, and requires attention to detail and certification in aircraft maintenance. The job can be stressful but is manageable with proper training and experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the F 16 crew chief position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an F 16 Crew Chief, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and specialized training in aircraft maintenance, typically facilitated by completion of Air Force technical school or equivalent certification. Familiarity with technical manuals, aircraft maintenance management systems (like Integrated Maintenance Data System), and standard safety protocols is essential. Outstanding communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help you work efficiently with pilots, supervisors, and other maintenance personnel. These competencies ensure the safety, reliability, and optimal performance of the F-16 aircraft, which is critical to mission success.

What is an F 16 crew chief?

An F-16 Crew Chief is responsible for maintaining and servicing F-16 fighter jets to ensure they are mission-ready. They perform inspections, diagnose mechanical issues, and conduct repairs on aircraft systems, including hydraulics, landing gear, and engines. Crew chiefs also coordinate with pilots and other maintenance personnel to ensure safe and efficient aircraft operations. Their role is critical to keeping the aircraft in peak condition for military missions.

More about F 16 Crew Chief jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of F 16 Crew Chief jobs? The most popular types of F 16 Crew Chief jobs are:
What states have the most F 16 Crew Chief jobs? States with the most job openings for F 16 Crew Chief jobs include:
Infographic showing various F 16 Crew Chief job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,575 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

E01-C07 F-16 Structures Technician

EXPANSIA

Eglin, FL • On-site

$34 - $38/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Start Date: Immediate 
JHNA, CTSi, and EXPANSIA have come together to form a Defense Technology platform named Aether Aerospace focused on delivering high-impact technologies, technology-enabled services and advanced manufacturing solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense and related national security customers. Backed by Falfurrias Management Partners, the platform brings together deep domain expertise across Army, Navy, and Air Force and Space Force programs, digital engineering, systems integration, and specialized manufacturing capabilities.     
 
The combined organization operates as a multi-entity aerospace and defense technology and tech-enabled services and manufacturing enterprise positioned for scalable growth, operational excellence, and long-term value creation. 
 
OVERVIEW 
Full-time/Permanent Employee  
Location: Eglin AFB, FL

Aether Aerospace is currently seeking a skilled and motivated F‑16 Aircraft Structures Technician to join our maintenance and support team. In this role, you will be responsible for inspecting, troubleshooting, repairing, modifying, and testing complex avionics systems installed on the F‑16 Fighting Falcon. The ideal candidate has hands‑on experience with F‑16 avionics subsystems, follows technical data with precision, and consistently upholds the highest standards of safety, reliability, and aircraft readiness.   

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Inspect, maintain, and repair F‑16 airframe structures, including fuselage, wings, stabilizers, and related structural components. 

  • Fabricate and install aircraft structural parts using sheet metal, composite materials, and advanced manufacturing techniques. 

  • Interpret and utilize technical orders, engineering drawings, blueprints, and maintenance manuals. 

  • Conduct aircraft structural modifications, Time Compliance Technical Orders (TCTOs), and depot-level repairs when authorized. 

  • Use precision tools and equipment such as rivet guns, brake presses, drills, sanders, and composite curing equipment. 

  • Maintain accurate records in maintenance information systems and ensure compliance with Air Force safety, quality assurance, and documentation standards. 

  • Collaborate with crew chiefs, avionics, propulsion, and armament specialists to support integrated aircraft maintenance activities. 

  • Provide mentoring and on-the-job training to junior technicians when required. 

 
KEY QUALIFICATIONS
Clearance: Ability to obtain Secret clearance.
Education and Years of Experience: A HS diploma or equivalent and 3 years performing maintenance and installations on military aircraft, including US Air Force F-16 
  • Completion of USAF Aircraft Structural Maintenance (3-level) technical training or equivalent civilian experience. 

  • Demonstrated experience with sheet metal fabrication, composite repair, and structural troubleshooting. 

  • Ability to read and interpret technical data, engineering drawings, and structural repair manuals. 

  • Working knowledge of maintenance documentation systems (GO81, IMDS, or equivalent). 

  • Ability to obtain and maintain appropriate security clearance. 

  • Physical ability to lift equipment, work in confined spaces, and operate in flight line environments. 

 
PREFERRED ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
  • 5 or more years of experience performing structural maintenance on F‑16 aircraft. 

  • FAA Airframe License or equivalent industry certification. 

  • Experience with depot-level or modification programs. 

  • Proficiency with advanced composite repair techniques and non-destructive inspection methods. 

There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, geographic location, education, and certifications. 
Aether Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.