Aircraft mechanics work on turbine engines like this one. Photo credit: Benedeki http://www.sxc.hu/profile/benedeki

The field of aviation offers many jobs other than the obvious careers as pilot or flight attendant. Many supporting positions are available inside and outside of the terminal, so there may be a job for you in the industry that you haven’t even considered yet! Here’s a rundown of five alternative careers in aviation. Do any of them strike your fancy?

Ticket agents perform more duties than just issuing tickets. They confirm reservations, help passengers at self-service ticketing kiosks, make boarding announcements, help passengers board the plane and confirm seating assignments. They must be able to work with minimal supervision, handle point-of-sale transactions and know geography. They should be able to handle up to 100 pounds frequently during their work shift. Ticket agents should be well-groomed and pleasant. A college degree is preferred, but a high school diploma is usually the minimum requirement for this job.

Aircraft fuelers prepare the planes for flight. They might be responsible for filling the fuel truck and fueling the planes. They might position cleaning gear and power carts. They have to lift long, heavy fuel hoses while standing on a ladder. They deal with hazardous materials on a daily basis. An aircraft fueler must be able to climb a ladder up to thirty times per shift. They work varying shifts as needed. Fuelers must have a valid driver’s license and a high school diploma or equivalent.

A ground attendant handles all sorts of issues. They’re constantly dealing with passengers who have questions or problems, so they must be friendly problem solvers. A ground attendant might have to explain missed connections, answer inquiries regarding airfares, find lost baggage and help those with disabilities get around the terminal by wheelchair. Ground attendants must be able to stand or walk for their entire shift. A high school diploma is required.

Cargo or baggage handlers are responsible for loading and unloading baggage. They must handle the cargo safely and in a timely manner. They work outside on ramps and are exposed to good and bad weather. They load heavy luggage and spend their days stretching, bending and lifting. They also operate trucks, conveyors, fork lifts and baggage tugs. High school graduates are preferred.

Aircraft mechanics examine and repair aircraft. Aircraft mechanic training is required for this position due to the importance of the job. Aircraft mechanics must be able to work on many types of aircraft and helicopters. They’re in charge of maintaining hydraulic systems, airframes, avionics equipment and instrumentation. They might specialize on one part of the plane, such as the engine. They must be able to work with little supervision. Safety and speed are important in this position.

So what do you think? Do you know anybody whose abilities and personalities fit well with these careers? If so, let them know! Airlines are always hiring!

This article was prepared and submitted by Philip J Reed on behalf of Redstone College, which offers an aircraft mechanic training program. Please visit their website for more information, or leave a comment below.