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Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aircraft Mechanic III (unlicensed)

Goodyear, AZ ยท 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 ...

Aircraft Mechanic Sr (unlicensed)

Goodyear, AZ ยท 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 ...

Aircraft Mechanic II (unlicensed)

Goodyear, AZ ยท 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 ...

Aircraft Mechanic (unlicensed)

Lake City, FL ยท On-site

$24.50 - $32/hr

The Aircraft Mechanic is responsible to perform aircraft maintenance and/or repairs within estimated time in accordance with applicable "Client Airframe Services", FAA, and customer standards of ...

Aircraft Mechanic II (Unlicensed)

Jacksonville, FL ยท On-site

$26.75 - $35/hr

An Aircraft Mechanic II performs skilled work to identify, remove, and install aircraft components and to perform servicing of engines and aircraft accessories. Essential Duties and Responsibilities ...

Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic information

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$18

$32

$44

How much do unlicensed aircraft mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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 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 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.

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 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.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic jobs? The most popular types of Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic jobs are:
What states have the most Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic jobs? States with the most job openings for Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic jobs include:
Infographic showing various Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic 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 $67,131 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Worldwide Aircraft Services Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanic

World Wide Aircraft Inc.

Springfield, MO โ€ข On-site

$26.25 - $34.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Unlicensed Aircraft Mechanics Entry level

Position Summary

The Unlicensed Mechanic performs aircraft maintenance, servicing, and ground support tasks under the direct supervision of an FAA-certificated Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic or Inspector. This position supports the safe and efficient operation of aircraft maintained and serviced by Worldwide Aircraft Services, Inc. in compliance with all applicable FAA regulations, company policies, and procedures. Work performed in this role may not be returned to service by the incumbent; all return-to-service authority is retained by certificated personnel.

This position is specifically structured to allow employees to accumulate the qualifying practical experience required under 14 CFR 65.77 to become eligible to apply for an FAA Airframe and/or Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic Certificate. Upon satisfying all applicable experience, knowledge, and skills requirements under 14 CFR Part 65, Subpart D, the employee becomes eligible to apply for FAA A&P certification.

he following duties are representative but not all-inclusive. Other duties may be assigned as operational needs require.

  • Assist certificated A&P mechanics with scheduled and unscheduled aircraft maintenance tasks including inspections, component removal and installation, and system servicing.
  • Perform aircraft servicing including fueling, oil servicing, tire inflation, hydraulic fluid checks, and lavatory servicing under the direction of certificated personnel.
  • Assist with aircraft washing, cleaning, lubrication, and preservation activities.
  • Tow, position, and marshal aircraft in accordance with company procedures and safety standards.
  • Operate ground support equipment (GSE) including tugs, ground power units (GPU), air start units, and other authorized equipment.
  • Perform shop maintenance tasks including parts cleaning, tool organization, and work area housekeeping.
  • Assist with the receipt, inspection, and stocking of aircraft parts, materials, and supplies.
  • Accurately complete required maintenance documentation in accordance with company and FAA recordkeeping requirements.
  • Maintain a personal experience log, provided by company provided by the company, documenting hours worked, tasks performed, aircraft registration numbers, and supervising certificated mechanic as required to support future A&P certification under 14 CFR 65.77.
  • Adhere to all Foreign Object Debris/Damage (FOD) prevention policies and practices.
  • Comply with all safety, security, and access control requirements including SIDA badge regulations where applicable.
  • Report any unsafe conditions, discrepancies, or concerns immediately to supervising certificated personnel.

Employment in this position is designed to satisfy the practical experience requirements of 14 CFR 65.77, which govern eligibility to apply for an FAA Airframe and/or Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic Certificate. Once an employee has met all applicable requirements under 14 CFR Part 65, Subpart D, they may apply for FAA A&P certification.

14 CFR 65.77 Experience Requirements

To be eligible for an FAA Mechanic Certificate, each applicant must present evidence of one of the following:

  • Option A AMTS Graduate: An authenticated document from an FAA-certificated Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS) under 14 CFR Part 147; OR
  • Option B Single Rating (Airframe OR Powerplant): At least 18 months of practical experience with the procedures, practices, materials, tools, and equipment generally used in constructing, maintaining, or altering airframes or powerplants appropriate to the rating sought; OR
  • Option C Both Ratings (A&P): At least 30 months of practical experience concurrently performing the duties appropriate to both the Airframe and Powerplant ratings.

Reference: 14 CFR 65.77 (as amended, Amdt. 65-63, 87 FR 31415, May 24, 2022)

Employee Responsibilities for Experience Documentation

Employees intending to use their employment at Worldwide Aircraft Services to satisfy 14 CFR 65.77 experience requirements are responsible for:

  • Maintaining a contemporaneous personal experience log documenting: dates worked, specific tasks performed, type of work (airframe and/or powerplant), aircraft make/model and registration number, and the name and certificate number of the supervising certificated A&P mechanic.
  • Ensuring entries are signed and verified by the supervising certificated mechanic at the time work is performed.
  • Retaining all pay stubs, work records, and other documentation satisfactory to the FAA Administrator as evidence of practical experience.
  • Notifying the Director of Maintenance and Human Resources when the applicable experience threshold has been reached and certification is being pursued.

Company Commitment

  • Worldwide Aircraft Services, Inc. will assign work in a manner that provides exposure to both airframe and powerplant maintenance tasks to support employees pursuing the full A&P rating under Option C of 14 CFR 65.77 (30-month concurrent experience).

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent required.
  • Prior experience in aviation maintenance, military aircraft maintenance, or a related mechanical field preferred but not required.
  • No FAA A&P certificate required; this position is designed for individuals actively working toward FAA A&P certification through the 65.77 experience pathway.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Basic understanding of tools and maintenance principles.
  • Mechanical aptitude with proficiency in the use of hand tools and measuring equipment.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and airworthiness.
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions precisely and completely.
  • Effective communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
  • Basic computer skills sufficient to access maintenance tracking and documentation systems.

Licenses & Certifications

  • Valid driver's license required.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid airport security badge (SIDA) where required.
  • FAA A&P certificate not required for this position; employees will become eligible to apply for FAA A&P certification upon satisfying all requirements of 14 CFR Part 65, Subpart D, including the experience requirements of 65.77.

REGULATORY & COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS

This position is subject to the following regulatory requirements:

  • DOT/FAA Drug and Alcohol Testing: This is a safety-sensitive position subject to DOT drug and alcohol testing requirements under 14 CFR Part 120 and 49 CFR Part 40, including pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return-to-duty, and follow-up testing.
  • Must comply with all applicable FAA regulations and Worldwide Aircraft Services, Inc. policies and procedures.
  • Subject to background investigation as required by TSA and airport authority regulations.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

  • Frequently required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, and climb.
  • Must be able to regularly lift and carry up to 50 pounds; occasionally lift up to 75 pounds with assistance.
  • Required to work in confined spaces, at heights, and on aircraft surfaces.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions including extreme heat, cold, and inclement weather.
  • Frequent use of hands and fingers for tool operation, grasping, and fine manipulation.
  • Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) including hearing protection, safety glasses, and other protective gear as required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Work is performed in hangar, ramp, and shop environments with exposure to aircraft fuel, oils, hydraulic fluids, solvents, and other chemicals.
  • Exposure to noise, vibration, and moving mechanical parts; appropriate PPE required.
  • Schedule may include day, evening, night, weekend, and holiday shifts based on operational needs.
  • Overtime may be required as operational demands dictate.

Worldwide Aircraft Services, Inc s an equal employment employer.