Aircraft Mechanic, moving up the chain?

Question

So im looking to become a licensed aircraft mechanic. I have a few questions. Lets say I finish school and i get certified and licensed, would I start out working on small planes or can I apply to...for example Southwest Airlines as a rookie straight out of school? If i do start out on the bottom of the chain, over the years, how much better does the salary get? I know new A&Ps start out at around 30-40k a year, what if youve been on the job for a certain amount of years?

Answer 1

Airlines will hire a person with little or no experience. And right now is a good time for this since they are short on people. I was hired out of school. It was at a third party maitenance company. The pay was rather low compared to the airlines, but you did get experience you could carry over to the major airlines. At one of these companies you are looking at around $14 to $15 to start. But after a couple of years you will have enough experience to be seriously considered at a major airline. Trying to get in at Soutwest may be difficult, especially since everyone wants to work for them since they are one of the most stable airlines, unless you know someone who works there and can recomend you. Most major airlines are hiring right now so good luck and take what you can and learn all you can where ever you start but don't stop trying to get into a better company. You should also try private jet companies. They are very stable and pay about the same, $18-$35 depending on experience and time with the company.

Answer 2

A lot of airlines & corporate flight departments hire newly certified A&P mechanics directly out of A&P School. Recruiters are always making the rounds of the best schools. Don't expect to make lots of money right out of school though. The longer you work for a company the better the money gets (like anything else). Most corporate flight positions consist of one or 2 individuals. You actually become an aircraft maintenance manager. You would be expected to manage all the aircraft maintenance records, take care of minor everyday maintenance squawks & schedule & oversee all major inspections & repairs. These positions can pay quite well but you will need considerable prior experience to qualify for one of these. You can also get a job with a light aircraft maintenance facility. You will never make a great deal of money there & the experience won't count for much with the airlines or corporate world but it can be more fun, less demanding & can involve getting lots of flight time in aircraft you might actually get to own.