Aircraft Fitters make parts for aircraft prior to sending them to final assembly where they are put on the aircraft. Fitters work by following manufacturing and engineering plans, utilising tools and for drilling, shimming and sealing.

Aircraft fitter jobs could have you tinkering on planes or rotary aircraft in the private sector or maybe in the military.

In order to work in aircraft fitter jobs it is vital that you are comfortable with heights and in small spaces. You will be working with all sorts of aircraft parts, during manufacture or on repairs.

For the mechanically mind, a fitter job with aircraft can be very rewarding. This job is hands-on and can be dirty. This career appeals to people who like tinkering with things and solving problems or creating.

An aircraft fitter normally works on machinery and equipment in production, he assembles or fits parts made up of metal and other materials by brazing and welding. Dismantling fused parts could also be part of your job.

The fitter is responsible for setting up, adjusting and inspecting machines and equipment. You have to maintain your tools and equipment to ensure safe and efficient work. Having viewed drawings and specifications you are expected to determine what materials and equipment are needed for manufacturing.

The workshops and production areas for aviation fitters are often loud, hot and dusty. Fitters need to be in good shape, because they spend most of the day on their feet. While working you have to wear protective equipment, like ear muffs and safety goggles.

Requirements of an aircraft fitter

To become a fitter, you should like technical work and have good hand-eye coordination. This is a learned trade, so you have to graduate from a college and then go on to find an apprenticeship. For training you need to get five C grade GCSE level qualifications (Higher Tier where applicable) including Maths, English Language and Science.