Aircraft engineers work in hangars or workshops that may be noisy, and on airfields where they may be exposed to all weather conditions. They may have to work with chemicals such as fuel, oil and hydraulic fuels, which can be dangerous if not handled correctly.

Aircraft engineers may travel around New Zealand or overseas to diagnose faults and test repairs.

Conditions may be stressful as aircraft engineers are required to work to tight deadlines to ensure planes are back in service as soon as possible.

Equipment aircraft engineers may use includes:

• power tools such as pneumatic (compressed air) drills, grinders, and riveters
• various hand tools
• testing equipment
• safety equipment such as reflective overalls, safety glasses, and earmuffs
• solvents and glues.

Aircraft engineers usually work regular hours, but may have to do shift work. They may have to work long hours, evenings and weekends, and they are sometimes on call.

Aircraft engineers work independently on individual jobs or in small teams. They have contact with supervising aircraft engineers.

If they work for large organisations, they may also work with aeronautical engineers and avionics engineers.