Role overview
Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (Structures) are specialised tradespeople who maintain, repair, and modify the structural components of aircraft in Australia. They work with various materials including aluminium alloys, composites, and titanium to ensure the airframe's structural integrity meets strict aviation safety standards. These professionals interpret engineering drawings, conduct inspections, and perform repairs on fuselages, wings, control surfaces, and other critical components. Their work is governed by Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) regulations and requires meticulous documentation. The occupation is classified under ANZSCO as a legacy classification still used for migration and statistical purposes, though actual job roles may evolve with advancing aviation technologies.
Key tasks in practice
While ANZSCO doesn't provide specific task descriptions for this occupation, typical responsibilities based on industry practice include:
- Inspecting aircraft structures for damage, corrosion, or fatigue using specialised tools and techniques
- Fabricating and repairing metal and composite components according to engineering specifications
- Replacing damaged structural elements while maintaining aircraft weight and balance requirements
- Conducting non-destructive testing to identify hidden defects in aircraft structures
- Completing maintenance documentation and certification in compliance with aviation safety regulations
- Collaborating with other maintenance engineers to ensure integrated aircraft systems function correctly
Skill level explanation
ANZSCO assigns Skill Level 3 to this occupation, indicating it typically requires an AQF Certificate III or IV qualification plus relevant experience. In practice, this means most Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (Structures) complete a four-year apprenticeship or equivalent structured training program. The skill level classification reflects the technical knowledge required to interpret complex engineering drawings, understand aviation materials science, and apply regulatory requirements. This ANZSCO classification is maintained for historical comparison and migration purposes, though actual industry requirements may involve additional CASA licensing and type-specific training beyond the base qualification level.
Industry context
Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (Structures) primarily work in industries classified under ANZSIC codes 9429 (Other Air and Space Transport Support Services), 9421 (Air and Space Transport), and 2394 (Aircraft Manufacturing and Repair Services). Employment opportunities exist with commercial airlines, maintenance repair organisations (MROs), defence contractors, and general aviation operators. The specialisation listing for Defence Force roles reflects that military aviation maintenance provides relevant experience for this classification. The occupation's crosswalk to ISCO 7213 (Sheet Metal Workers) indicates the metal fabrication skills required, though Australian aviation maintenance involves additional regulatory compliance and safety-critical responsibilities not fully captured by international classifications.