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The differences between helicopter mechanics and mechanics can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 2-4 years to become a helicopter mechanic, becoming a mechanic takes usually requires 1-2 years. Additionally, a helicopter mechanic has an average salary of $61,876, which is higher than the $47,149 average annual salary of a mechanic.
The top three skills for a helicopter mechanic include hand tools, safety procedures and FAA. The most important skills for a mechanic are hand tools, preventive maintenance, and customer service.
| Helicopter Mechanic | Mechanic | |
| Yearly salary | $61,876 | $47,149 |
| Hourly rate | $29.75 | $22.67 |
| Growth rate | 6% | 4% |
| Number of jobs | 33,954 | 100,534 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 4.25 |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 37% | High School Diploma, 42% |
| Average age | 40 | 42 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 2 |
A helicopter mechanic is tasked with making sure all a helicopter's parts are good and working well. They thoroughly inspect and ensure that the helicopter and other aircraft meet standard regulations and are fit for flight. A helicopter mechanic is well versed in mechanics and has excellent problem-solving and computer skills. They repair and maintain both civilian and military helicopters. They may work at airfields or runways.
Mechanics are professionals responsible for assembling, maintaining, and repairing vehicles and types of machinery. They are knowledgeable of various tools and equipment, machinery, electrical systems, and other components. They can usually be seen indoors, garages in particular. Due to the advancement of technology, they are also required to be familiar with computer and software programs that can be used in auto shops and vehicles. They always work in safety precautions.
Helicopter mechanics and mechanics have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Helicopter Mechanic | Mechanic | |
| Average salary | $61,876 | $47,149 |
| Salary range | Between $44,000 And $86,000 | Between $35,000 And $63,000 |
| Highest paying City | Hollister, CA | San Jose, CA |
| Highest paying state | Alaska | Connecticut |
| Best paying company | Apple | Anheuser-Busch |
| Best paying industry | Manufacturing | Manufacturing |
There are a few differences between a helicopter mechanic and a mechanic in terms of educational background:
| Helicopter Mechanic | Mechanic | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 37% | High School Diploma, 42% |
| Most common major | Aviation | Automotive Technology |
| Most common college | Purdue University | - |
Here are the differences between helicopter mechanics' and mechanics' demographics:
| Helicopter Mechanic | Mechanic | |
| Average age | 40 | 42 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 93.0% Female, 7.0% | Male, 95.7% Female, 4.3% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 9.1% Unknown, 5.1% Hispanic or Latino, 23.4% Asian, 6.3% White, 55.6% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.6% | Black or African American, 8.5% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 17.1% Asian, 2.4% White, 65.9% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1% |
| LGBT Percentage | 2% | 2% |