Employment of aircraft mechanics is concentrated in a small number of industries. The majority work for private companies and about 15% work for the federal government. Mechanics work in hangars, in repair stations, or on airfields. They must often meet strict deadlines to maintain flight schedules. At the same time, they must maintain safety standards, and doing both can cause stress.

The work can be noisy from loud aircraft engines. Workers must often bend, stoop, and reach from ladders and scaffolds. Most mechanics work near major airports. Airline mechanics often work outside, on the airfield, while repair and corporate mechanics work in climate-controlled shops. Civilian mechanics employed by the armed forces work on military installations.

Most mechanics work full time and overtime and weekend work is common.