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Aircraft Engineer - Personal requirements

Mataaro Pūkaha Waka Rererangi

Skills & knowledge

Aircraft engineers need to have:

knowledge of the structure of aircraft mechanical systems (including jet and propeller engines), and hydraulic and pneumatic (compressed air) systems in aircraft
an understanding of how aircraft fly (aerodynamics) and how metals react during flight
an understanding of the maintenance requirements of the aircraft they are servicing
the ability to diagnose and solve mechanical problems
excellent mechanical and technical skills
knowledge of approved repair techniques and procedures
knowledge of aircraft safety rules and safe work practices.

Andrew Smith working on an aircraft engine.

Aircraft engineers must develop strong mechanical skills

Aircraft engineers checking a crate of replacement parts for an aircraft being serviced

Personal Qualities

Aircraft engineers need to be:

practical and efficient
methodical and logical
careful and patient
able to work well under pressure, and make good judgements.

They also need an eye for detail, and must be willing to take responsibility for their work.

Physical Requirements

Aircraft engineers need to be fit and healthy. They should have good hearing and good hand-eye co-ordination. Agility and dexterity are useful for climbing around aircraft and working with small components.