Aircraft mechanic
An aircraft mechanic maintains and repairs aeroplanes and helicopters. Aircraft mechanics work for airlines, the Finnish Defence Forces, aircraft repair shops and the aircraft manufacturing industry. The profession requires strong technical skills, as well as language, diligence and cooperation skills.
Airlines, aircraft maintenance and repair companies, the aerospace industry, the Finnish Defence Forces and the Finnish Border Guard.
An aircraft mechanic is responsible for the technical safety of flying by maintaining and repairing aircraft, and is required to be reliable, well organised, able to concentrate and have a sense of responsibility. An aircraft mechanic must be familiar with aircraft structures, mechanical systems, power plants and maintenance techniques. The profession requires knowledge of inspecting, testing and repairing structures and systems.
A good command of English is required as the industry is very international, and the instructions and written materials required for the job are often in English. Safe working practices and knowledge of international regulations are an important part of everyday life.
The job requires initiative and cooperation skills as well as good physical fitness and health. Some exposure to noise may occur at work. Aviation technology is constantly evolving, so the industry requires a willingness to develop and learn new things.
In upper secondary vocational institutions, you can complete the Vocational Qualification in Aircraft Mechanics. The titles of the qualification are avionics line maintenance certifying technician, aircraft line maintenance certifying technician or aircraft line maintenance certifying mechanic After gaining more professional experience, it is also possible to complete a further vocational qualification and specialist vocational qualification in aviation technology. The employer is responsible for training on the different types of aircraft.
There are certain health requirements and aptitude tests for those applying for training. An approved basic form of security clearance and the possibility of strong identification (online banking codes) and a valid passport or identity card are also required. A criminal record and substance abuse problems are often a barrier to working in aviation.
An aircraft maintenance licence (Part-66) is required when serving as a civil aircraft maintenance mechanic, i.e. someone licensed to issue certificates of release. The maintenance licence is divided into seven categories depending on the content of the tasks. The Finnish Transport Safety Agency (Traficom) issues such licences to eligible applicants. A licence as an aircraft maintenance mechanic entitles you to perform similar tasks elsewhere in Europe.
Median salary
3750 €/mo
The data is based on the median income, meaning the amount of salary which is the middle of the salary amounts arranged in order of magnitude.
Source: Statistics Finland's structural statistics on wages and salaries