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Jet Engine Mechanic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Metrea Management LLC

Aircraft Mechanic

Moreno Valley, CA · On-site

$39 - $45/hr

Inspect mechanical components of the Boeing KC-135 to identify discrepancies. * Maintain and repair ... Jet Engine - Inspection, engine control rigging, and basic maintenance. * Electrics - Use wiring ...

Howmet Aerospace

Maintenance Mechanic

Brea, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium ... Mechanically troubleshoot, repair and maintain all types of industrial machinery, equipment and ...

Howmet Aerospace

Maintenance Mechanic

Brea, CA

$40/hr

Mechanically troubleshoot, repair and maintain all types of industrial machinery, equipment and ... Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium ...

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Jet Engine Mechanic information

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How much do jet engine mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for jet engine mechanic in California is $20.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Jet Engine Mechanic vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectJet Engine MechanicAircraft Maintenance Technician
CertificationsFAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license, specialized jet engine trainingFAA A&P license, general aircraft maintenance training
Work EnvironmentAircraft hangars, airports, maintenance facilities focusing on jet enginesAirports, maintenance shops, covering various aircraft systems
Industry UsagePrimarily in airline, military, and aerospace sectorsCommercial airlines, private aviation, military

Jet Engine Mechanics specialize in maintaining and repairing jet engines, requiring specific certifications and training. Aircraft Maintenance Technicians perform broader aircraft repairs, including systems beyond engines. Both roles are essential in aviation, but Jet Engine Mechanics focus specifically on engine performance and safety.

Can you make 300k as an A&P mechanic?

A&P mechanics typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced professionals in high-paying regions or specialized fields potentially earning over $100,000. Reaching a $300,000 salary is uncommon and usually requires additional certifications, supervisory roles, or working in management or aerospace engineering positions. Factors such as experience, location, and employer influence earning potential significantly.

What does a Jet Engine Mechanic do?

A Jet Engine Mechanic inspects, repairs, maintains, and tests jet engines to ensure they operate safely and efficiently. Their work involves diagnosing mechanical issues, replacing faulty parts, performing routine maintenance, and keeping detailed service records. Jet Engine Mechanics may work on engines for airplanes, helicopters, or other aircraft that use jet propulsion. They must follow strict safety procedures and comply with aviation regulations to ensure the reliability and safety of every engine they service.

What is the highest paying aircraft mechanic job?

The highest paying aircraft mechanic jobs are often with major airlines, military contractors, or private aerospace companies, especially for those with specialized skills in jet engines and certifications like FAA Airframe and Powerplant. Senior or lead mechanics with extensive experience and advanced certifications can earn significantly higher salaries, sometimes exceeding six figures annually. Working on large commercial jets or in supervisory roles typically offers the highest compensation in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Jet Engine Mechanic, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Jet Engine Mechanic, you need a solid understanding of turbine engine theory, mechanical aptitude, and typically an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification or equivalent military training. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, engine testing equipment, and maintenance management systems is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and teamwork are vital soft skills for ensuring safety and efficiency. These skills and qualifications are critical for maintaining aircraft reliability and compliance with rigorous aviation safety standards.

What Are the Duties of a Jet Engine Mechanic?

A jet engine mechanic is responsible for the maintenance of an aircraft engine and often disassembles the engine to inspect for wear, warping, cracks, or leaks. As a jet engine mechanic, you inspect all of the engine parts, including the turbine blades and cylinders, replace worn out or damaged parts, and repair and reassembles the engine as needed. Keeping a careful record of all repairs done to the jet engine is one of your main responsibilities. Other duties include servicing the aircraft and related apparatus by flushing the crankcase, cleaning screens, and lubricating parts.

How much money does a jet engine mechanic make?

Jet engine mechanics typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Skilled mechanics with specialized training and certifications can earn higher wages, especially in aerospace or military settings.

Can you make 100k as an aircraft mechanic?

Aircraft mechanics, including jet engine mechanics, can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, certifications, and working in high-demand regions or for large airlines. Salaries vary based on location, employer, and specialization, with some mechanics reaching six-figure incomes through overtime and advanced skills.

What are some common challenges jet engine mechanics face in diagnosing and repairing engine issues?

Jet engine mechanics often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex mechanical and electronic systems, working with limited access to engine components in confined spaces, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technology. Diagnosing faults can require interpreting detailed technical manuals and using advanced diagnostic equipment. Additionally, mechanics must adhere to strict safety protocols and regulatory standards, which can add layers of complexity to repairs and maintenance tasks. Collaboration with engineers, inspectors, and other technicians is essential for effective problem-solving and ensuring aircraft safety.
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Jet Engine Mechanic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jet Engine Mechanic job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,423 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Senior Propulsion Engineer, Air Vehicles (Air Breathing Engine Integration)

Senior Propulsion Engineer, Air Vehicles (Air Breathing Engine Integration)

Anduril Industries

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

$112K - $148K/yr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago

Anduril rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 71,359 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Air Dominance & Strike Propulsion Integration team is responsible for designing and integrating advanced hardware for Group 5 air vehicles and across missile platforms. Air Dominance & Strike Propulsion Engineers own the full development lifecycle, from concept generation, to integration and flight test, ensuring high-performance, resilient, and scalable mechanical systems that meet the demands of complex, contested environments.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Serve as a lead or key contributor in the selection, architecting, and integration of aircraft engines, engine components, and engine controls on unmanned air vehicles (UAVs).
  • Design, fabricate, and test prototype components and control systems.
  • Plan, instrument, and execute tests of aircraft propulsion systems.
  • Coordinate with engine vendors, develop strategic partnerships, and manage development projects.
  • Lead or support critical hardware demonstrations with customers as needed.
  • Critical member of team supporting CAD design for inlet / exhaust shaping, surfaces and structures.
  • Travel to test sites as needed.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Electrical Engineering.
  • 8+ years of propulsion engineering experience on air vehicles (manned or unmanned).
  • Experience with jet engines in the 250-20,000 lbf thrust class.
  • Strong understanding of jet engine fundamentals and thermodynamic cycles.
  • Proven experience designing complex mechanical parts, structural components, and surface lofts (using 3D CAD).
  • Exposure to testing of engines or powertrain components.
  • Familiar with manufacturing methods (machining, sheet metal, composites, 3D printing, injection molding, etc.).
  • Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience in NX / Teamcenter, Python, MATLAB, IADs.
  • Hands-on experience with jet engine testing including test practices, instrumentation, and data processing.
  • Previous work experience at a jet engine OEM or supplier, with a deep understanding of engine performance trade-offs.
  • Knowledge and experience working with FADEC, Engine Management Systems (EMS), or equivalent aircraft engine control systems.
  • Experience procuring parts and working in a machine shop. Working knowledge of machine safety and shop safety protocols.
  • Active U.S. Top Secret security clearance.

Working at Anduril

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About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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