Also called: Powerplant Technician, Engine Shop Mechanic
Takes jet engines completely apart, inspects every part, and rebuilds them.
In an engine shop, techs remove fan blades, inspect turbine parts with borescopes and microscopes, replace worn pieces, and reassemble engines worth millions before test runs.
Certificate, about 2 years after high school. FAA Powerplant license or manufacturer training.
Ways in: Trade school, Certification, Military. Training cost: Under $15k.
Majors to look at: Aviation Maintenance Technology (trade school).
Growing faster than average (about 5% over 10 years). BLS 2025-35 projection band for SOC 49-3011: Faster than average (5% to 6%).
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. Robotic inspection and AI part scans speed teardown; hands-on rebuilds stay human, with automation growing.
Classes: Physics, Small engines, Algebra II.
Official data: O*NET occupation 49-3011.
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