Helicopter engineer

In this role you couldcarry out scheduled inspection and maintenance checks; use software programs to diagnose faults; find and fix faults; report defects to the maintenance manager; make sure aircraft meet flight safety regulations; work on aircraft and instrument modifications; refit aircraft; respond to repair call outs; record completed work

• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• practical skills for repairing and maintaining equipment
• persistence and determination
• the ability to repair machines or systems
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to work well with your hands
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

You'll need a Part-66 engineering licence issued through the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

There are different categories to the licence, depending on the type of work you want to do, but common ones are:

• B1 mechanical for work on an aircraft's structure and electrical systems
• B2 avionics for work on navigation, communication and electronic instruments

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• a graduate training scheme
• the armed forces

With experience you could become a maintenance engineering manager or senior design engineer, working on modifications and enhancements to aircraft.