Reports to: Back Shop Lead, Director of Maintenance
Job purpose
The Aviation Back Shop Mechanic (Helicopters) is responsible for performing maintenance, repair, overhaul, and testing of helicopter components and systems in a controlled shop environment. The mechanic ensures all work complies with OEM specifications, company policies, aviation regulatory standards (e.g., FAA, EASA), and safety protocols.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Disassemble, inspect, repair, modify, assemble, and test helicopter components (e.g., gearboxes, rotors, hydraulics, fuel systems).
- Troubleshoot component issues using technical manuals, schematics, and diagnostic tools.
- Perform precision measurements and quality checks to verify tolerances and alignments.
- Ensure all documentation and maintenance records are accurate and completed in accordance with regulatory requirements.
- Operate test benches, hydraulic stands, and other specialized equipment as required.
- Maintain tools and equipment in clean and serviceable condition.
- Assist in inventory control, including the handling of parts and materials used in component maintenance.
- Provide feedback on technical data, suggesting corrections or improvements.
- Support inspections (QA, regulatory, customer) and participate in audits as required.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and FOD-free work environment.
- Participate in on-the-job training and cross-training as necessary
Workplace Safety:
- Adhere to all OSHA, company, and aviation industry safety standards.
- Wear appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) at all times.
- Report unsafe conditions, incidents, or near-misses promptly.
- Follow Lockout/Tagout, hazard communication, and chemical handling protocols.
- Participate in regular safety briefings and drills.
SOP/KPIs:
- Follow established SOPs and work instructions without deviation unless approved.
- Meet or exceed KPIs such as:
- Turnaround Time (TAT)
- First Pass Yield
- Quality Assurance scores
- Downtime or delays due to rework
- Inventory accuracy and tool accountability
Team Support:
- Collaborate with team members to meet production goals and deadlines.
- Communicate effectively with supervisors, engineers, and QA staff.
- Support mentorship and knowledge-sharing within the team.
- Assist in problem-solving and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Maintain best practices and a positive working environment with all parties at the worksite.
- Coordinate with other departments to achieve outlined goals.
- Respond to communications (e-mails, meeting requests, Teams messages, etc.) set by team members in a timely and friendly manner.
- Learn Smartsheet’s project management software and take ownership of assigned projects. Aid in the evolution of usage of this platform by spearheading best practices adoption.
Qualifications:
- FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) License – Preferred
- Minimum 3 years of experience preferably in a back shop or component-level environment
- Prior experience in Part 135, Part 145, or Part 91 operations
Required Behaviors:
- High ethical standards and strong personal integrity
- Unwavering attention to detail
- Safety-conscious mindset
- Accountability and ownership of inspection responsibilities
- Commitment to continuous improvement and learning
Hard Skills & Education:
- Proficient in interpreting technical manuals, blueprints, and engineering drawings
- Skilled in the use of precision measurement tools (e.g., micrometers, calipers, dial indicators)
- Knowledge of helicopter systems and components
- Ability to use computerized maintenance and inventory systems (e.g., ERP, CMS)
- Competent in torque values, safety wiring, and fastener integrity
- High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Technical degree in Aviation Maintenance – Preferred
Specific Soft Skills (examples):
- Strong verbal and written communication
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Collaboration and interpersonal skills
- Time management and task prioritization
- Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure
Working conditions
- Primarily indoors in a climate-controlled back shop or hangar setting
- Exposure to aviation chemicals, noise, rotating machinery, and high-pressure systems
- Use of PPE required (gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, etc.)
- Shift work, overtime, and weekend work may be required based on workload
Essential Job Functions
- Manual dexterity to handle small components and tools
- Ability to read and interpret complex manuals and documents
- Perform work requiring a high level of concentration and precision
- Meet required physical and mental demands to ensure safety and compliance
- Maintain logs and documentation with accuracy and clarity
Physical requirements
- Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
- Must be able to stand, kneel, bend, and reach for extended periods
- Visual acuity to detect cracks, corrosion, or wear
- Manual dexterity for operating tools and equipment
- Ability to work at benches, stands, and test equipment for long durations
- Must pass an initial and reoccurring fit for duty exam