20 tasks, each one witnessed by the sources that watched the job — and behind every one, a prompt you can use tonight.
You start by reviewing flight logs and service records in Microsoft Word or Excel, then inspect aircraft for damage, access-plate security, and airworthiness. That often means walking the ramp, opening panels, and checking fuel operations for contamination or leaks.
Afternoon tasks include documenting inspection findings in SAP or Word, liaising with colleagues and air traffic controllers, and reviewing compliance with EU rules or aviation safety standards. Some days include flight test programs or following up on accident investigations and waivers.
Expect to use Microsoft Word for reports, Excel for logging inspection data, and Outlook for email with teams and regulators. Many employers use SAP to track maintenance records and certifications.
You’ll also read technical manuals and aviation standards in Office files. Knowing how to attach documents, run simple Excel filters, and update SAP entries matters more than fancy coding.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports about 24,500 employed as of 2025 and a median wage of $92,100 per year. The bottom tenth earn about $40,330, and the top tenth about $138,670, according to BLS.
Use those numbers as ranges, not promises—your pay depends on employer, certifications, and whether you do flight tests, investigations, or regulatory audits.
AI can draft inspection reports or summarize flight logs, but never trust AI for technical conclusions about airworthiness. Always verify against original maintenance records, manuals, and your own checks before signing documents.
Don’t upload sensitive documents (flight logs with personal data) to public AI services. Instead copy non-sensitive text into a local, company-approved tool, and keep final records in SAP or company Word templates.
Mechanics repair and replace parts; inspectors check for compliance and airworthiness. Inspectors examine access panels, evaluate safety procedures, and decide if an aircraft can fly or needs paperwork fixes.
You don’t usually do the hands-on rebuilds. Instead you document findings, issue waivers or corrective actions, run quality assurance on fuel operations, and monitor certifications.
Attention to detail when reading records and technical documentation — catching a mismarked service entry, a missing certification, or a loose access-plate fastener can stop a major safety issue.
Combine that with clear documentation skills in Word and SAP so your findings are unambiguous. Good communication with engineers and air traffic staff finishes the job: you must explain what you found and what fix is needed.