How to Get a Job at an MRO: The Complete Guide
MROs — Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul organizations — are the backbone of aviation maintenance. They perform everything from light line maintenance to complete aircraft overhauls for airlines, operators, and military clients. If you're an A&P mechanic looking for steady work with good pay and growth potential, MROs are a smart target.
What Is an MRO?
An MRO is a company certificated under FAA Part 145 to perform maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alterations for aircraft and components. Unlike airlines that maintain their own fleet, MROs serve external clients.
Major MROs (2026)
| MRO | Locations | Specialties |
|---|---|---|
| AAR Corp | Miami, Oklahoma City, Indianapolis | Airframe heavy checks, components |
| ST Engineering | Pensacola, San Antonio, Singapore | Wide and narrowbody heavy maintenance |
| HAECO Americas | Greensboro, NC; Lake City, FL | Airframe heavy maintenance |
| Aeroplex | Various | Component overhaul, modifications |
| StandardAero | Multiple US locations | Engine, component, helicopter |
| MTU Aero Engines | Multiple global | Engine overhaul, repair |
| Chromalloy | Various | Turbine component repair |
| Delta TechOps | Atlanta | Full-service (largest airline MRO) |
What MROs Look For in Mechanics
Required:
Preferred:
Nice to Have:
MRO Mechanic Salary
| Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $42,000–$58,000 |
| Mid-Career | $58,000–$80,000 |
| Senior / Lead | $78,000–$105,000 |
| Inspector / Quality | $85,000–$115,000 |
| Management | $100,000–$140,000+ |
Overtime is abundant at MROs — especially during peak maintenance seasons. Many mechanics earn $10,000–$25,000+ in annual overtime.
How to Get Hired at an MRO
Step-by-Step:
- Get your A&P certificate. This is mandatory.
- Build experience. Even 6 months at a general aviation shop counts.
- Target specific MROs. Research which MROs are in your area or where you're willing to relocate.
- Apply online. Most MROs post openings on their career pages and on aviation job boards.
- Attend job fairs. MROs actively recruit at aviation maintenance job fairs and Part 147 school career days.
- Get specialized training. NDT, composite repair, and type-specific courses make you more competitive.
- Network. The aviation maintenance community is small. Reach out to mechanics who work at your target MRO.
🔗 Search MRO mechanic jobs nationwide. Browse on MyAviJobs →
MRO vs. Airline Maintenance: Which Is Better?
| Factor | MRO | Airline |
|---|---|---|
| Variety of aircraft | High (multiple clients) | Lower (own fleet types) |
| Schedule | More predictable (project-based) | Shift-based, 24/7 |
| Pay | Competitive but often lower than airlines | Generally higher at majors |
| Benefits | Varies (some excellent, some basic) | Strong at major airlines |
| Flight benefits | Usually none | Free/discounted travel |
| Overtime | Abundant | Available but varies |
| Location | Often near airports or industrial areas | Airport-based |
| Career progression | Lead → Inspector → QA → Management | Lead → Inspector → Lead Foreman → Management |
Why Choose an MRO?
- Variety: You work on different aircraft types for different clients. The learning curve is continuous.
- Heavy maintenance focus: If you love deep inspections and structural work, MROs specialize in this.
- Entry accessibility: MROs often hire entry-level A&Ps more readily than airlines.
- Overtime income: Heavy check deadlines mean plenty of OT pay.
- Training: Good MROs invest in employee training and development.
🔗 Research MRO companies and their hiring status. MyAviJobs Company Hub →
🔗 Compare MRO vs. airline mechanic salaries. Salary Explorer →