Aircraft Structure Technician

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:

• 2006 NOC: Aircraft Mechanics (7315.1) 
• 2006 NOC-S: Aircraft Mechanics and Aircraft Inspectors (H415) 
• 2011 NOC: Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors (7315) 

Aircraft structure technicians:

• inspect metal and composite aircraft structures
• assess damage from corrosion and fatigue
• read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings and repair manuals
• fix, replace and change sheet metal and composite parts, skins and panels to meet precise demands
• fasten parts, skins and panels to aircraft structures
• make holding fixtures or jigs as needed (for proper alignment when making, fixing or installing parts)
• apply coatings that guard against corrosion.

They may also:

• make, fix and change fluid lines and fittings
• fix and replace plastic windows and lenses
• fix fabric surfaces and wood structures.

Aircraft structure technicians work in hangars or shops. Sometimes they work outdoors on airport ramps. They may be exposed to harsh weather, fumes or other hazards. They need to use safety equipment and wear safety clothing. Their work area may be noisy. At times, they may need to be in awkward positions or on scaffolds. They use hoists to move large, heavy objects. Working quickly while observing safety standards can be stressful.

Aircraft structure technicians work shifts. They may need to work evenings or nights, when aircraft are not in use.

Aircraft structure technicians need to possess:

• good eyesight and hearing
• good eye-hand and muscle co-ordination
• an ability to work at heights
• an ability to be accurate and detail-oriented
• fitness and agility (for reaching, climbing and heavy lifting)
• an ability to interpret and follow written or blueprint instructions
• an ability to understand regulations
• an ability to be well organized
• an ability to management time well.

They should enjoy using tools, equipment and machinery. Their tasks require precise work. They should also enjoy analyzing information and solving problems. They should have an organized approach to their work.

Aircraft structure technicians may work for:

• air carriers
• aircraft repair and overhaul companies
• flight training schools
• aeronautical product manufacturers
• component shops.

Aircraft structure technicians must supply their own hand tools. The employer usually provides special tools and equipment.

Employers may favour employees who are willing to move.

Some technicians advance to become supervisors or managers. Others work as quality control inspectors or sales reps for aeronautical products.

Aircraft structure technicians are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 7315: Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors. In Alberta, 80% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

• Transportation and Warehousing [pdf]
• Public Administration [pdf].

The employment outlook [pdf] in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events that affect overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities that come up when people leave existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities that come up when new positions are created)
• size of the occupation.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Canadian Council for Aviation & Aerospace (CCAA) website: www.avaerocouncil.ca

Transport Canada website: www.tc.gc.ca

For more information on career planning, education and jobs call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre toll-free at 1-877-644-9992 or 780-644-9992 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Works Centre near you.