A & P Jobs in Atlanta: Where to Find Aircraft Mechanic Opportunities
If you’re searching for A&P jobs in Atlanta (Airframe and Powerplant mechanic positions), you’re looking in one of the strongest aviation job markets in the Southeast. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, general aviation airports around metro Atlanta, and several aviation employers create steady demand for certified mechanics.
This guide explains what A&P jobs look like in Atlanta, who hires, where to look, what to expect, and how to get qualified if you’re still working toward your license.
What Are A&P Jobs?
An A&P mechanic is an FAA-certified aircraft maintenance technician with:
- Airframe (A) privileges – working on the aircraft structure, skin, landing gear, hydraulics, and related systems.
- Powerplant (P) privileges – working on engines, propellers, and associated systems.
In Atlanta, most “A&P jobs” are full-time maintenance roles with airlines, repair stations, or general aviation shops. Titles you might see:
- A&P Mechanic / Aircraft Mechanic
- Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT)
- Line Maintenance Technician
- Heavy Maintenance Technician
- Aircraft Structures Mechanic
- Powerplant Mechanic
- Maintenance Supervisor / Lead A&P (for those with experience)
All of these typically require an FAA A&P certificate, or at least eligibility to obtain one quickly.
Why Atlanta Is a Strong Market for A&P Mechanics
Atlanta is a major aviation hub, centered around Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), one of the busiest airports in the world. This drives:
- High aircraft traffic → constant need for routine inspections and repairs.
- Multiple airlines and regional carriers operating maintenance in or around ATL.
- General aviation and business aviation at smaller airports throughout metro Atlanta.
- MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) shops that support airlines, cargo, and private operators.
For someone with an A&P license, Atlanta offers a mix of large airline environments and smaller, more hands-on general aviation operations within driving distance.
Major Employers for A&P Jobs in Atlanta
Below are some of the main types of employers in the Atlanta area that commonly hire A&P mechanics, along with local examples.
1. Major Airlines and Airline Maintenance
Atlanta is a primary hub for Delta Air Lines, which maintains a large presence around ATL.
Typical roles:
- Line maintenance (troubleshooting and repairs between flights)
- Overnight checks and scheduled inspections
- Heavy maintenance (at larger facilities or specialized shops)
While hiring needs change, ATL-based airline maintenance facilities are among the largest A&P employers in the region.
Where to look:
- Airline career pages (search “Atlanta,” “Hartsfield,” “A&P,” or “Aircraft Mechanic”)
- Job boards using keywords like “A&P mechanic ATL” or “aviation maintenance Atlanta”
2. Cargo and Freight Operators
Atlanta has strong air cargo traffic, which supports:
- Cargo airline maintenance (line and base maintenance)
- Package and freight carriers using ATL and nearby airports
Mechanics here often work nights, early mornings, or weekends, since cargo schedules can be different from passenger airlines.
3. MROs (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul) and Repair Stations
Around Atlanta you’ll find Part 145 repair stations that specialize in:
- Component and avionics repairs
- Engine and accessory overhauls
- Airframe structural repairs and modifications
These employers may be at or near Hartsfield-Jackson or at surrounding airports such as:
- DeKalb–Peachtree Airport (PDK) – 2000 Airport Rd, Atlanta, GA 30341
- Cobb County International Airport–McCollum Field (RYY) – 1723 McCollum Pkwy NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144
- Gwinnett County Airport–Briscoe Field (LZU) – 600 Briscoe Blvd, Lawrenceville, GA 30046
- Fulton County Airport–Brown Field (FTY) – 3952 Aviation Cir NW, Atlanta, GA 30336
Many MROs and FBOs (fixed-base operators) at these fields hire:
- General A&P mechanics
- Avionics techs (sometimes separate but A&P is a plus)
- Interior/structures specialists
4. Business Aviation and Corporate Flight Departments
Metro Atlanta has a sizable business aviation community, especially at PDK, RYY, LZU, and FTY. Potential employers include:
- Corporate flight departments maintaining their own jets
- Charter and fractional ownership operators
- FBOs that provide maintenance services
These roles often involve:
- More variety (jets, turboprops, helicopters, specialty equipment)
- Closer relationship with aircraft owners/pilots
- Maintenance scheduling that may be more flexible than airline line maintenance, but can involve on-call situations when aircraft need urgent attention.
5. Military & Government-Related Support
While you’d need to check specific job postings, there are defense contractors and government-related aviation operations in Georgia. Some hire civilian A&P mechanics for:
- Maintenance on military or government aircraft
- Support roles with contractors near bases and training facilities
This may involve security clearances and specialized requirements.
Common A&P Job Duties in Atlanta
While the employer and aircraft type varies, Atlanta A&P roles often include:
- Routine inspections (A, B, C checks or other scheduled maintenance)
- Troubleshooting mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical issues
- Repairing or replacing worn parts (brakes, landing gear components, control surfaces, etc.)
- Powerplant work – engine changes, borescope inspections, troubleshooting engine performance issues
- Logbook entries and documentation to comply with FAA regulations
- Adhering to safety procedures and company maintenance manuals
- Working rotating shifts (especially at ATL, where aircraft move nearly 24/7)
Typical Requirements for A&P Jobs in Atlanta
Most Atlanta-area A&P roles ask for:
- FAA A&P certificate (some will hire you if you’re about to test)
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Ability to work shifts (nights, weekends, holidays for airline roles)
- Basic tools – some employers provide specialty tools; others expect you to bring standard hand tools
- Physical ability – climbing, kneeling, lifting, and working in tight spaces or on stands
Many employers also look for:
- 1–3 years of relevant experience, especially on certain aircraft types
- Inspection Authorization (IA) – helpful for some higher-level or supervisory roles
- Avionics experience – increasingly valued, especially in business aviation and modern fleets
Where to Search for A&P Jobs in Atlanta
Use a mix of online search, local networks, and direct outreach.
1. Online Job Boards
Search using combinations like:
- “A&P mechanic Atlanta GA”
- “Aircraft mechanic ATL”
- “Aviation maintenance technician Hartsfield”
- “A&P jobs PDK” or “A&P jobs DeKalb Peachtree”
Filter by location (Atlanta or specific suburbs) and keep an eye on airports around the metro area, not just ATL.
2. Airline and Company Career Pages
Most major airlines, MROs, and FBOs list roles under “Careers” or “Jobs.” Search:
- By airport code (ATL, PDK, RYY, FTY, LZU)
- By job family (Maintenance, Technical Operations, Aviation Maintenance)
3. Local Airports and FBOs
Visiting or calling local airports can be useful, especially for general aviation jobs. Some smaller shops still hire via:
- Word of mouth
- Notices at FBO front desks
- Local aviation community connections
Key Atlanta-area airports to be aware of:
| Airport | Code | Typical A&P Opportunities |
|---|---|---|
| Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International | ATL | Airline line & heavy maintenance, cargo ops, MRO support |
| DeKalb–Peachtree Airport | PDK | Business aviation, FBOs, GA maintenance shops |
| Fulton County Airport–Brown Field | FTY | Charter, corporate, GA shops |
| Cobb County International–McCollum Field | RYY | GA, flight schools, regional maintenance |
| Gwinnett County Airport–Briscoe Field | LZU | GA, charter, small MROs |
4. Local Aviation Schools and Training Centers
If you’re still in training or recently certified, schools and A&P programs in or near Atlanta can be strong networking points. Instructors often know:
- Which local employers are hiring
- What aircraft types are in demand
- Typical starting pay and schedules in the area
Getting Your A&P in Atlanta (If You’re Not Licensed Yet)
If you’re looking up “A&P jobs Atlanta” but still need your certificate, you generally have two main paths:
1. Part 147 Aviation Maintenance School
These are FAA-approved programs that combine classroom training and hands-on labs to prepare you for A&P exams.
Pros:
- Structured training
- Clear path to sitting for FAA tests
- Connections to local employers who recruit from graduating classes
Look for schools in or near Atlanta offering Airframe & Powerplant programs and check:
- Length of program
- Cost and financial aid options
- Job placement assistance and local partnerships
2. On-the-Job Experience Plus FAA Authorization
In some cases, military aircraft maintenance experience or documented civilian experience can qualify you to sit for the A&P tests without going through a school.
You would typically:
- Gather proof of experience (military records, employer letters).
- Visit a local FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) for evaluation.
- If approved, schedule your written, oral, and practical tests.
In the Atlanta area, the FSDO serving this region is typically located in or near the metro area; check the current address and contact details through official FAA channels before visiting, as locations and office hours can change.
What A&P Mechanics in Atlanta Commonly Want to Know
1. What shifts are most common?
At Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL):
- Overnights and late evenings are common for line maintenance.
- Rotating shifts (days/nights/weekends) are standard at many airlines.
At general aviation airports:
- Often day shifts, with some weekend work and occasional on-call needs for urgent repairs.
2. Is there room to move up?
Many Atlanta A&P mechanics progress into:
- Lead / crew chief roles
- Quality assurance / inspection (sometimes with IA)
- Training and technical support
- Maintenance planning or management
Airlines and MROs in Atlanta often have structured paths for technicians to advance as they gain experience and additional qualifications.
3. Do I need both Airframe and Powerplant?
Yes, in most cases around Atlanta, employers want full A&P certification. Some specialized roles (like component repair) might only require one side, but having both greatly improves your options, especially with airlines and larger MROs.
Tips for Standing Out in the Atlanta A&P Job Market
- Highlight any experience with common fleet types (Airbus, Boeing, regional jets, or popular business jets like Gulfstream, Learjet, etc.).
- Emphasize reliability and shift flexibility – critical at ATL and busy GA airports.
- Keep your logbooks, certificates, and training records organized and ready to present.
- If you’re new, consider starting at a general aviation shop to gain hands-on experience while you watch airline openings.
- Stay current on safety practices, human factors, and new avionics technologies – these are increasingly important talking points in Atlanta interviews.
For anyone focused on A&P jobs in Atlanta, the combination of a major airline hub, busy general aviation airports, and active MRO presence means you have multiple paths. Whether you prefer the scale and structure of big-airline maintenance at Hartsfield-Jackson or the variety and close-knit environment of smaller shops at PDK, RYY, LZU, or FTY, Atlanta offers a wide range of opportunities once you’re certified and ready to work.