*For the purpose of this article, Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) and Licensed Aircraft Engineer (LAE) are interchangeable.
A Licensed Aircraft Engineer (LAE) is a person who is certified to perform maintenance tasks on aircraft (including airplanes and helicopters, depending on the license certification). Their role is to ensure the safe and proper operation of aircraft, by carrying out inspections, troubleshooting, repairs, rectifications and making improvements to the aircraft.
An LAE can work in an airline, independent Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) organisations, or at pilot training schools. The highly skilled nature of the job means that, as an LAE, you can enjoy career versatility in a range of sub-industries including commercial, general or business aviation, and aircraft manufacturing.
The job of an LAE is hands-on, challenging, rewarding, and nothing short of fun! And plus, your ‘office’ would be among some of the most high-tech aircraft and engines! How amazing is that?! But do you have what it takes to be an LAE?
Here are some of the key personal qualities you should have:
- Analytical skills
Source: Dviation Group
Aircraft maintenance requires a high level of technical skill as well as in-depth knowledge. Being able to combine these skills to tackle tasks is beneficial. Due to time constraints and maintenance schedules, you must be able to efficiently collect and analyse data from a system, and accurately identify faults within an aircraft component. Besides solving problems, you should be able to analyse situations to make well-informed decisions.
- Problem-solving skills
There will be times when the solution to a fault in an aircraft system will not be directly available. Your ability to interpret the issue and relate it to your training will be highly advantageous. As mentioned above, you should also have the skills needed to correctly diagnose faults and identify problems.
- An eye for detail
Aircraft systems are rather complex, and require a high level of attention to detail. Sometimes, small mistake or mismatch in parts could lead to grave consequences. Thus, a good eye for detail is a must-have skill, especially when carrying out inspections. Even with the latest equipment, the human eye should never be underestimated.
- Physical dexterity
Throughout your career as an LAE, you could be required to work with heavy machinery or large parts. Most aircraft maintenance tasks also require physical exertion, ranging from climbing ladders to manoeuvring in small spaces.
- Teamwork capabilities
Source: Dviation Group
As one might expect, working on something as large as an aircraft would require the cooperation of many individuals. Hence, being able to work in a team is essential. As an added advantage, if you possess leadership skills and are able to coordinate a group, you may stand a higher chance of progressing in your career.
If think you’ve got what it takes to be an LAE, sign up for a course at http://www.dviation.com/training now! And if you already are an LAE, head to http://www.dviation.com/recruitment for a list of available job openings!