Rapidly changing aircraft technology means that aircraft mechanics are constantly updating their skills and knowledge to maintain aircraft in safe flying condition. Advances in computer technology, aircraft systems, and the materials used to manufacture airplanes have made this career a more highly professional and technical occupation than ever before.

Career Advancement
The normal course of career advancement for an aircraft mechanic, as he/she gains work experience, is from assistant to line mechanic to lead mechanic (or crew chief). Some mechanics pursue the additional training they need to become inspectors who review the work of other mechanics, perform required inspections, and may advance to become lead inspectors or inspectors for the FAA. With additional business and management training, some mechanics become maintenance directors that manage a crew of aircraft mechanics and other maintenance personnel; and others start their own aircraft maintenance facilities.

Most commercial airlines are reluctant to hire mechanics with new A&P certificates or new associate's degrees in electronics. Therefore, most aircraft mechanics begin their careers working at Fixed Based Operators, repair stations, and aircraft manufacturing, service and maintenance companies to gain the actual work experience. However, some new A&P mechanics begin working for regional airlines and other companies due to their schools’ partnerships with various employers.

Mechanics occasionally lift or pull heavy objects weighing as much as 50 pounds. They often stand, lie, squat, or kneel in awkward positions and occasionally must work in tight spaces and awkward positions on platforms, scaffolds, and ladders. Noise from aircraft and ground equipment is a common concern for mechanics wherever they work, so ear protection is necessary. Minor scratches and skinned knuckles from tool slippage are the most frequent injuries at work.

Hours and Benefits
Aircraft mechanics usually work 40 hours a week on 8-hour shifts around the clock, with occasional overtime for various reasons such as the peak summer season, backlog of maintenance, etc. The work shifts are typically assigned to mechanics based on seniority; and the most senior mechanics usually work the day shifts and junior (new) mechanics for the company work the evening shifts. The benefits will vary for each employer. The typical benefits include vacation, life and health insurance plans, and retirement benefits. Airlines also extend flight benefits in the form of free or reduced air travel to employees and their families. Experienced aircraft mechanics can also advance to positions of greater responsibility in aviation-related industries, which can lead to even better compensation and benefits.