Aircraft maintenance or related trades - requirements

Aircraft maintenance and related trades are all about fitting, servicing, repairing and overhauling aircraft engines and other assemblies. Read about the career and how to get a job in the area.

Know what you'll need to land a job below.

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What qualifications do you need to be an aircraft maintenance or related trade professional?

You may not need an undergraduate degree to apply for a professional maintenance role, but an engineering degree will go a long way. Subjects to consider include:

Several degrees are accredited by professional bodies. This offers extra benefits, such as the option to register professionally after earning your degree.

Alternatively, you could choose an apprenticeship or further education college course such as a higher national diploma.

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Do you need a postgraduate qualification to be an aircraft maintenance or related trade professional?

A postgraduate qualification isn’t always required by employers, but having one will boost your career prospects.

Examples of taught and research degrees at postgraduate level include:

  • Aircraft maintenance management
  • Aviation engineering and management
  • Aerospace materials
  • Aerospace engineering
  • Predictive maintenance for aircraft systems

What skills do you need to be an aircraft maintenance or related trade professional?

As well as expert technical skills, you’ll need to work well in a team and keep to strict health and safety precautions.

Hard skills usually include:
  • Expertise in aircraft technology and maintenance
  • Assessing airworthiness and risk
  • Practical knowledge of industry health and safety
Soft skills include:
  • Verbal communication
  • Teamwork
  • IT literacy
  • Problem-solving
  • Attention to detail
  • Organisation and time management

Do you need work experience to be an aircraft maintenance or related trade professional?

Work experience may not be required for a graduate role, but any experience you can get will help with your job applications. Many university courses include a sandwich year or industry placement as part of the course. Otherwise, you can contact relevant companies and see if they offer work experience opportunities.

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