They often stand on tall ladders or scaffolds. Mechanics generally work 40 hours per week, although is overtime is frequent. They work under time and safety pressures. Mechanics who work at airports often do minor repairs and preflight checks right before a flight is scheduled to leave. They use precision instruments to measure parts for wear and use X-rays to check for invisible cracks.
Employers supply uniforms and power tools, but mechanics buy their own hand tools.
Nearly one out of two of all aircraft mechanics are covered by union agreements. This includes those employed by some major airlines. The principal unions are the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers and the Transport Workers Union of America. Some mechanics are represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. Wages vary according to training, experience and location.