Lois Larson
Mechanical engineers are in high demand across various industries, and airports are no exception. Airports require mechanical engineers for a variety of roles, including maintenance and construction. These engineers are responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of various mechanical systems, from airport baggage handling to building maintenance, repairs, and even snow removal. Given the diverse range of responsibilities, mechanical engineers working in airports need to be creative problem solvers with strong technical skills and a solid understanding of fundamental mechanical principles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Salary | $81k-$140k |
| Location | Des Moines International Airport, Dallas/Fort Worth Airport, Indianapolis, Baton Rouge Airport, LA, San Francisco |
| Requirements | Basic mechanical/automotive tools, fundamental mechanical principles, technical, organizational and creative thinking skills, five years' experience in maintenance or construction, knowledge of airport baggage handling systems |
| Responsibilities | Maintenance functions on mechanical systems, repairs of minor mechanical, electrical, HVAC, plumbing and building-related components, general maintenance, including snow removal |
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What You'll Learn
Maintenance of mechanical systems
Mechanical engineers can work in airports maintaining mechanical systems. Airports have strict safety standards and regulations that must be adhered to, and proper maintenance of all elements is key to achieving the required level of safety.
Mechanical systems in airports include aircraft, visual aids, and airport electrical systems. Aircraft mechanics and technicians are responsible for maintaining and repairing aircraft systems, including engines, landing gear, and brakes. They also perform scheduled maintenance, make repairs, and complete inspections to ensure aircraft operate safely and reliably. Some mechanics and technicians are generalists, working on various aircraft types, while others specialize in specific sections, such as engines or hydraulic systems. Avionics technicians are specialists who maintain and repair a plane's electronic systems, including radio communications and radar.
Visual aids are another important mechanical system in airports. These include approach, runway, and taxiway lighting systems, as well as docking guidance systems. Maintenance of these systems involves regular cleaning, light measurement, and lamp replacement.
Airport electrical systems are also critical and require maintenance to ensure their proper function. This includes power cables and distributors, transformers and regulators, control cables, monitoring units, and secondary power supplies.
Maintenance activities typically involve inspection, servicing and overhaul, and repair work. Mechanics and technicians need to be detail-oriented, dexterous, and able to interpret manufacturer instructions. They must also be able to recognize engine noises, read gauges, and collect information to determine the proper functioning of systems.
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Airport baggage handling systems
Mechanical engineers can work on various projects at airports, including designing and optimising baggage handling systems (BHS). A well-designed BHS is crucial to an airport's success, ensuring a positive passenger experience and attracting major airline hubs.
A BHS is responsible for efficiently transporting passenger luggage from check-in to the plane's cargo hold and then to a collection point at the arrival airport. This system must be adapted to each airport's unique needs, considering factors such as passenger density and the time taken for passengers to reach their gates.
BEUMER Group, for example, offers customised end-to-end BHS that adhere to IATA standards. Their CrisBag® Self-Bag Drop system maximises check-in efficiency, reducing operating costs and optimising staff utilisation. The CrisStore® rack-based storage solution is another component that optimises the batch-building and speed-loading process.
Other innovative BHS technologies include the use of destination-coded vehicles (DCVs) at Denver International Airport, which automatically load and unload bags without stopping. The airport also employs automatic scanners and sorting machines to route bags to the correct gate efficiently.
With the increasing focus on automation and advanced technology integration, mechanical engineers play a vital role in developing and maintaining these complex BHS, ensuring smooth and secure baggage handling operations at airports worldwide.
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Building and terminal maintenance
Airport terminal buildings are essential infrastructure that ensures the safe, efficient, and comfortable transit of millions of people annually. Therefore, maintaining airport infrastructure and systems is critical to ensuring continuous operational excellence.
Maintenance activities can be categorised into two types: corrective or reactive maintenance, which addresses breakdowns when they occur, and preventative or planned maintenance, which prolongs asset lifespan and minimises unpredictable breakdowns. Preventative maintenance is crucial for airports as unplanned maintenance can significantly disrupt operations and inconvenience passengers, operators, and staff.
Mechanical engineers play a vital role in building and terminal maintenance at airports. They are responsible for ensuring the proper maintenance of mechanical systems and equipment, such as power grids, lighting systems, and ground support equipment. This includes activities such as inspection, servicing, overhaul, and repair. For instance, mechanical engineers may be involved in repair and replacement decisions for mechanical equipment in terminals, contributing to meeting operational goals and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Additionally, mechanical engineers collaborate with other professionals to adopt innovative approaches to preventive maintenance activities. This involves proactive planning and implementing sustainable practices to meet evolving industry requirements while assuring maximum passenger comfort. For example, mechanical engineers may work with airport management and regulatory bodies to devise solutions that minimise operational disruptions during construction or maintenance projects.
Overall, building and terminal maintenance in airports require a comprehensive approach that combines consulting, technology, and skilled technicians. By prioritising maintenance and adopting innovative solutions, airports can ensure smooth and safe operations while meeting high safety standards.
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HVAC, plumbing, and electrical repairs
Mechanical engineers play a crucial role in ensuring that airport facilities are safe, efficient, and comfortable for travellers and staff alike. When it comes to HVAC, plumbing, and electrical repairs, mechanical engineers are often at the forefront, providing their expertise to maintain and enhance airport operations.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems are essential in airports to regulate indoor air quality, temperature, and humidity. Mechanical engineers are involved in the design, installation, and maintenance of these systems, ensuring optimal thermal comfort and indoor air quality for airport users. This includes selecting the appropriate refrigerant, designing ductwork and ventilation shafts, and integrating HVAC systems with the airport's overall infrastructure.
Plumbing is another critical aspect of airport maintenance. Mechanical engineers are responsible for designing and overseeing the installation and repair of plumbing systems, ensuring proper waste disposal, water supply, and sanitation. This includes specifying the layout of pipes, drains, and vents, as well as selecting the appropriate plumbing fixtures and equipment to meet the demands of a busy airport.
Electrical repairs and maintenance are also within the purview of mechanical engineers at airports. They ensure the reliable operation of electrical systems, including power distribution, lighting, and airport-specific systems such as baggage handling and runway lighting. Mechanical engineers work closely with electrical engineers to troubleshoot electrical issues, upgrade electrical infrastructure, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
In addition to these specific areas, mechanical engineers also collaborate with various airport stakeholders, including architects, developers, and users, to ensure that the airport's mechanical systems are integrated seamlessly with its overall design and functionality. They provide valuable insights and expertise during the planning, construction, and maintenance phases of airport development, contributing to the creation of sustainable, efficient, and comfortable airport environments.
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Vehicle operations and purchasing
Mechanical engineers are needed in airports for various roles and responsibilities. Airports require qualified building engineers to perform maintenance functions on various mechanical systems. These mechanical systems include aircraft and avionics equipment, baggage handling systems, fire notification systems, conveyors, central plants, HVAC, doors, locks, and security.
Mechanical engineers are also responsible for vehicle operations and purchasing. They need to have knowledge of mechanical applications, purchasing, and vehicle operations. This includes the maintenance and construction of vehicles, as well as snow removal around the airport.
Mechanical engineers may also be involved in the maintenance and repair of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing components of airport buildings. This can include working with outside contractors on the maintenance of mechanical equipment and general mechanical and electrical engineering work.
In terms of qualifications, mechanical engineers working in airports typically need a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Some positions may require additional years of experience in maintenance or construction, as well as knowledge of airport operations and systems.
Overall, mechanical engineers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation and maintenance of various aspects of airport infrastructure, including vehicle operations and purchasing.
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Frequently asked questions
A mechanical engineer working at an airport is responsible for the maintenance and repair of various mechanical systems and equipment, such as baggage handling systems, building mechanical systems, and vehicle operations. They may also be involved in snow removal and general maintenance of the airport terminal building.
Mechanical engineers working at airports typically need a good understanding of fundamental mechanical principles, creative problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and organisational skills. Some positions may prefer a degree in a related field and/or experience in maintenance or construction.
The sources did not specify any specific licenses or certifications required for mechanical engineers to work at an airport. However, it is always a good idea to check with the specific airport or hiring organisation for any additional requirements.
Some examples of job postings for mechanical engineers at airports include:
- Building Engineer at Des Moines International Airport
- Mechanical Engineer (Bearings and Seals for Rotating Machinery) near Hobby Airport
- Mechanical Engineer II at Springhill Suites Baton Rouge Airport
These positions typically offer salaries ranging from $81,000 to $140,000 per year.
