US Army Job 15T (UH-60 Helicopter Repairer)

US Army Job 15T (UH-60 Helicopter Repairer)US Army Job 15T (UH-60 Helicopter Repairer)The UH-60 helicopter repairer is primarily responsible for supervising and performing maintenance on UH-60 helicopters (also known as Black Hawk helicopters). This is military occupational specialty (MOS) 15T. Its an important role in the Army, since the Black Hawk is usually a part of any combat situation.The helicopter has played a role in numerous battles, including in Somalia, Afghanistan, Iraq and other parts of the Middle East. History of the Army Black Hawk Helicopter The Black Hawk, named for the Native American warrior, has been part of Army operations since 1974, entering formal service in 1978. Its manufactured by Sikorsky, and versions of this aircraft have been made for other branches of the U.S. Armed Services as well the Coast Guard, Air Force and Navy all have a similar helicopter. The Black Hawk helicopter has stood the test of time because its quieter and more durable than its predecessors. Its ability to evade radar is another huge plus for the Army, especially in combat situations. It can carry a crew of four and up to a dozen equipped soldiers. Duties of MOS 15T All of the duties revolve around the Black Hawk helicopter, including removing and installing subsystem assemblies such as engines, rotors, gearboxes, transmissions, mechanical flight controls and their components. Theyre also responsible for servicing the aircraft and any subsystems. MOS 15T soldiers prepare aircraft for inspections and maintenance checks, conduct scheduled inspections, and assist in performing special inspections. Their duties also include operational maintenance checks and diagnosing and troubleshooting aircraft subsystems using special tools and equipment as required. Theyll perform operator maintenance and repair and provide support for aircraft ground support equipment. And of course theres the paperwork these soldiers prepare forms and records related to aircraft mai ntenance and other air crewmember duties. MOS 15T may also act in a supervisory capacity at times, providing technical guidance to subordinate personnel. Training to be a Black Hawk Repairer Job training for a UH-60 helicopter repairer requires ten weeks of basic combat training and 15 weeks of advanced individual training with on-the-job instruction. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and the field. Youll learn to disassemble and repair engines, repair aluminum, steel and fiberglass airframes and coverings, as well as fix hydraulic, fuel and electrical systems. Qualifying as MOS 15T To qualify for this job, youll need to score a 104 the mechanical maintenance segment of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) tests. The line scores for this area include Auto and Shop, Mechanical Comprehension and Electronic Information. There are no special security clearances required from the Department of Defense for this job. However, youll need normal color visi on (no colorblindness), and any history of alcohol or drug abuse is disqualifying. Experimental use of marijuana after age 18 also is disqualifying. Similar Civilian Occupations to MOS 15T Although much of the work youll do in this job is specific to the Army, the skills you learn will help prepare you for a career as an airframe or power plant mechanic.