Aircraft Mechanic

U.S. Air Force Academy•Air Force Academy, CO

About The Position

This Non-appropriated Fund (NAF) position is assigned to the Aero Club at the Air Force Academy in Colorado and includes benefits. The Aircraft Mechanic diagnoses and corrects aircraft-system malfunctions in accordance with FAA, Air Force, and manufacturer procedures; performs scheduled and annual inspections; conducts major alterations and repairs; and verifies aircraft operation through ground checks and run-ups. The mechanic inspects and approves aircraft for return to service after major alterations and repairs and ensures compliance with applicable Airworthiness Directives and manufacturer service bulletins. The role also includes aircraft corrosion control, maintenance of parts inventory and bench stock, research and purchasing coordination, maintenance of tools and equipment, and upkeep of the maintenance reference library. The mechanic helps manage hangar facilities and aircraft movement, maintains refueling facilities and the ramp area, and keeps the work areas orderly. Other duties may include cleaning, repairing, or replacing aircraft parts; washing, deicing, and decontaminating aircraft; and assisting with fuel-cell maintenance or repair.

Requirements

Possess a current FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) rating.
Be eligible to obtain an FAA Inspector Authorization rating in accordance with FAR Part 65.
Have exceptional knowledge of the makeup, operation, and installation of a variety of light-aircraft systems, assemblies, and components.
Be able to detect and isolate malfunctions and determine whether assemblies, components, and parts should be replaced or repaired or reworked, including the extent of adjustment needed.
Have skill in removing, replacing, and adjusting systems and assemblies, and connecting, meshing, aligning, and adjusting systems and components.
Be skilled in using jigs, precision measuring equipment, mechanics' hand tools, powered ground equipment, test stands, and cockpit instruments and controls.
Have a valid state driver's license and be able to operate a motor vehicle safely; provide a copy of the driving record.
Be physically able to lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds and frequently stand, bend, stoop, crawl, and work in tight spaces.
Complete a background investigation with favorable results.
Complete a pre-employment physical.
Meet the position's qualification, eligibility, and background requirements.

Responsibilities

Diagnose and correct aircraft-system malfunctions in accordance with FAA, Air Force, and manufacturer procedures.
Perform ground checks and aircraft run-ups after repairs as needed to verify proper operation.
Perform scheduled inspections in accordance with Air Force and FAA regulations and manufacturer recommendations, including annual inspections under FAR Part 43.
Perform major alterations and repairs and supervise progressive inspections.
Conduct preflight and ground-run checks before required inspections to identify discrepancies to be resolved.
Accomplish applicable Airworthiness Directives and manufacturer service bulletins.
Treat aircraft for corrosion in accordance with FAA Advisory Circular 43-4.
Remove, clean, repair, and replace aircraft parts and components; wash, deice, and decontaminate aircraft; and assist with fuel-cell maintenance or repair as needed.
Inspect and approve aircraft for return to service after major alterations and repairs.
Manage parts inventory and bench stock, including vendor research, records and documentation, prior approval for parts or outsourced labor expenditures, labeling and stocking, and purchasing as directed.
Take measures to secure purchased items.
Maintain shop tools and equipment in safe, operational condition and ensure equipment is calibrated and certified annually.
Take appropriate measures to prevent mishaps.
Maintain the maintenance reference library, including aircraft, engine, and propeller manuals; directives and service materials; and applicable FAA regulations and advisory circulars.
Manage hangar facilities as directed and ensure aircraft are parked and moved in an orderly manner that avoids damage.
Maintain refueling facilities and the ramp area, including replacing fuel filters, receiving fuel purchases, and clearing snow.
Keep the hangar, shop, office, and parts room neat.