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Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

APA Services

Aircraft Mechanic III (unlicensed)

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$28 - $37/hr

We are seeking experienced Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanics to support a leading commercial aircraft MRO operation. This role focuses on heavy maintenance, line maintenance, return-to-service activities ...

APA Services

Aircraft Mechanic II (unlicensed)

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$28 - $37/hr

We are seeking experienced Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanics to support a leading commercial aircraft MRO operation. This role focuses on heavy maintenance, line maintenance, return-to-service activities ...

APA Services

Aircraft Mechanic Sr (unlicensed)

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$28 - $37/hr

We are seeking experienced Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanics to support a leading commercial aircraft MRO operation. This role focuses on heavy maintenance, line maintenance, return-to-service activities ...

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Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic information

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$18

$32

$44

How much do unlicensed aircraft mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for unlicensed aircraft mechanic in the United States is $32.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.64 and $36.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an unlicensed aircraft mechanic?

An unlicensed aircraft mechanic is an individual who performs maintenance, repair, or inspection work on aircraft under the supervision of a licensed mechanic. They typically assist with routine tasks, such as cleaning, removing, and replacing parts, and conducting inspections, but they are not authorized to certify aircraft as airworthy. Unlicensed aircraft mechanics often work towards gaining the necessary experience and training required to become fully licensed. Their work is essential for supporting licensed mechanics and ensuring aircraft are properly maintained.

What does an unlicensed aircraft mechanic do?

As an unlicensed aircraft mechanic, you handle all responsibilities relating to the airframe and engine, including inspections, maintenance, and repair. Your duties may involve reading manuals; determining specifications; implementing bolting, torquing, and rigging; using various methods and techniques to perform maintenance actions; attaching parts, and filling out reports and documents. You must abide by FAA safety regulations and care for your tools properly. In many cases, an unlicensed aircraft mechanic starts by working on military plane repair, but there are non-government options as well. You may work on various aircraft or specialize in one area.

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

To thrive as an Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic, you need a solid understanding of aircraft systems, mechanical aptitude, and experience with basic maintenance tasks, often gained through vocational training or on-the-job learning. Familiarity with hand tools, diagnostic equipment, and maintenance documentation systems is essential. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for this role. These skills ensure that aircraft are serviced safely and efficiently, supporting licensed mechanics and maintaining compliance with aviation standards.

What are the typical responsibilities and challenges faced by an unlicensed aircraft mechanic on a daily basis?

As an unlicensed aircraft mechanic, your daily responsibilities often involve assisting licensed mechanics with routine inspections, maintenance, repairs, and part replacements on aircraft under close supervision. One common challenge is staying up-to-date with evolving safety protocols and procedures while balancing hands-on learning and strict regulatory compliance. This role requires strong attention to detail, effective communication within the maintenance team, and the ability to follow precise instructions, as mistakes can have serious safety consequences. It's also important to be comfortable working in varied environments, including hangars and outdoor airfields, often under time constraints to ensure aircraft readiness.

What is the difference between Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic vs Licensed Aircraft Mechanic?

AspectUnlicensed Aircraft MechanicLicensed Aircraft Mechanic
CertificationsNo federal certification requiredMust hold FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license
Work EnvironmentAssist with maintenance under supervision, often in repair stations or hangarsPerform inspections, repairs, and maintenance independently
Employer & Industry UsageEmployers may hire unlicensed mechanics for support rolesRequired for independent work, certification necessary for full responsibilities

In summary, unlicensed aircraft mechanics typically assist licensed mechanics and do not hold federal certifications, limiting their responsibilities. Licensed aircraft mechanics have the necessary FAA certifications to perform inspections and repairs independently, making them essential for full maintenance tasks in the aviation industry.

Can I become an unlicensed aircraft mechanic without school?

Becoming an aircraft mechanic typically requires completing a formal training program and obtaining certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). While some on-the-job experience may be valuable, most employers and regulations require completion of approved schooling or training to qualify for certification and employment as an aircraft mechanic.
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Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,131 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Aircraft Mechanic III (unlicensed)

APA Services

Goodyear, AZ • On-site

$28 - $37/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

We are seeking experienced Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanics to support a leading commercial aircraft MRO operation. This role focuses on heavy maintenance, line maintenance, return-to-service activities, aircraft storage, and engine removals and installations. Candidates do not need an A&P certificate but must have recent, hands-on commercial aircraft maintenance experience and be able to perform maintenance tasks in accordance with FAA regulations, customer requirements, and company procedures.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Perform aircraft maintenance, repairs, and modifications on commercial aircraft in accordance with FAA regulations and approved maintenance data. Remove and install engines, aircraft systems, flight controls, and major components. Complete return-to-service (RTS) work, aircraft storage maintenance, preservation, and reactivation tasks. Perform troubleshooting, inspections, component replacements, adjustments, rigging, torquing, and safety wiring. Read and interpret aircraft maintenance manuals, illustrated parts catalogs (IPC), engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, service bulletins, ATA references, and other technical documentation. Complete assigned work efficiently while meeting quality and production expectations. Accurately complete maintenance documentation and ensure all paperwork complies with FAA and customer requirements. Properly identify, tag, and document repairable, serviceable, and condemned parts. Safely operate ground support equipment, including lifts and maintenance stands, after receiving company certification. Maintain a clean and organized work area while following all company safety procedures. Work effectively with supervisors, inspectors, planners, and fellow maintenance team members. Support operations on any assigned shift, including overtime when required.
Requirements
7-9 years of related experience Recent hands-on experience performing maintenance on commercial aircraft. Experience with engine removals/installations, heavy maintenance, line maintenance, return-to-service work, aircraft storage, or similar MRO environments preferred. A&P certification is not required, but is considered a plus. Ability to read and interpret aircraft maintenance manuals, blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical instructions. Working knowledge of FAA maintenance practices and aircraft maintenance procedures. Must provide own basic hand tools. High School Diploma or GED required. Must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
Miscellaneous
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, climb ladders and maintenance stands, and work in confined spaces for extended periods. Ability to work in a noisy aircraft maintenance environment and around various weather conditions as required.
About Our Client
Our Client provides aftermarket commercial aircraft, engines, and its parts to passenger and cargo airlines, leasing companies, original equipment manufacturers, and government and defense contractors, as well as maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) service providers worldwide. They were founded in 2008 and are headquartered in Florida.
Constant Cash
Constant Cash is a referral program that allows individuals to make extra money simply by referring qualified candidates. https://apaconstantcash.com
We know it takes great people to do great work, so if you're interested in joining the APA Services family give us a call at (817) 529-4000
Thanks for taking the time to apply and we look forward to working with you soon.
Job ID
168698321104106
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About APA Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1999, APA Aviation Staffing, LLC (DBA: APA Services) is a leading staffing services supplier to the aviation industry. APA's diverse offerings, capabilities and proven track record of successfully delivering top-notch talent to our clients has made it possible not only survive but thrive, in the aviation industry for over two decades! Our recruiters take pride in the body of work that they build as they successfully match skilled professionals with the needs of our clients. Our recruiters primarily place the following trades: licensed A&P mechanics, sheetmetal mechanics, avionics technicians, inspectors, cabinet builders, cabinet painter/finishers, upholstery specialist and sewers, aircraft painters, composite technicians, manufacturing engineers, material handlers, and more!

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fort Worth, TX, US

Year founded

1999

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