WSAA Apprentice - 1125

Full-time paid apprenticeship located in Grand Junction, CO, with temporary relocation required to East Alton, IL for the first 7.5 months of employment. Benefits eligibility begins on day one.

About the role

West Star Aviation Academy (WSAA) provides new hires with classroom and hands-on training in aviation maintenance, preparing them to test for and obtain the FAA Airframe license. Upon graduation and licensure, apprentices transition to full-time Aircraft Maintenance Technician roles.

During the 7.5-month academy, apprentices will temporarily live in the East Alton, Illinois or St. Louis, Missouri area. Training includes in-depth airframe maintenance learning, hands-on skills development, mentorship, and job shadowing in collaboration with Southwestern Illinois College and Choose Aerospace.

Responsibilities

• Work full-time while attending WSAA for the first 7.5 months.
• Learn aviation maintenance through formal and hands-on experiences, including using tools, technology, and aircraft or job aid boards.
• Test and achieve the FAA Airframe license.
• Continue employment as a licensed Aircraft Maintenance Technician, performing essential job functions in compliance with FAA guidelines, company policies, and safety standards.

Requirements

• High school graduate or equivalent.
• Former military with aviation maintenance experience but without an FAA Airframe license, or an individual with a strong desire to become a licensed Aircraft Maintenance Technician.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude, respectful team-player attitude, and ability to adapt to safety-oriented standards of conduct.
• Commitment to completing the 7.5-month WSAA curriculum to earn the FAA Airframe license.
• Sign a work commitment to complete WSAA and stay with West Star Aviation for 3 years post-graduation, or agree to repay the cost of the educational curriculum.
• Pass pre-screening assessments, background checks, and a mechanical aptitude test.
• Attend every scheduled work/class day (Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–3:30 PM) with no more than 4 hours of absence per week during the academy.
• Maintain reliable attendance throughout employment, with minimal unscheduled absences.
• Complete FAA requirements to obtain the Airframe license to remain employed post-academy.
• Perform all work in accordance with FAA guidelines, company policies, safety, regulatory, and quality standards.
• Commit to a drug-free workplace (random and reasonable suspicion testing applies; marijuana use is prohibited under FAA federal law).

Qualifications

Highly qualified candidates include those with prior aviation maintenance experience but lacking an FAA license.

Pay

The hourly rate for this position ranges between $20–$23, with actual pay varying based on location, experience, and performance. Additional compensation includes a shift differential (if assigned to an alternate shift), a semi-annual discretionary bonus, 401(k) company match, and employer contributions to a Health Savings Account (HSA).

Benefits

• Benefits effective on day one for eligible employees:
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage with HSA and FSA options.
  • Life insurance, disability benefits, and supplemental benefits.
  • 401(k) plan with employer match.
  • Paid company holidays and weekly paid time off accruals.
• Flexible work schedules (5x8, 4x10, or 3x12).
• Weekly competitive and industry-leading pay.
• Bonus opportunities based on company and site performance.
• Internal mobility and career advancement opportunities.