As aviation grows and evolves, airlines are increasingly seeking talented and qualified individuals from various sectors who can facilitate its development. New and challenging opportunities become available every day, especially in high demand fields such as aircraft maintenance and in the cockpit. With an abundance of aviation job openings daily, you may have often encountered the option to work on a contract basis as opposed to permanent employment. Permanent jobs are often more appealing to candidates as they provide more stability, and a set work schedule. However, it's possible that a large number of applicants are unaware of the advantages of contracted work, and how it can contribute to the development of a strong professional experience in the aviation sector. In this article, we will go through some of the most valuable benefits of contracted vs permanent employment in aviation, and how it can help candidates in their aviation career journey.
How does contracted employment work in aviation?
Just like in other industries, contracted work can give you more flexibility and choice when it comes to the airlines you want to work for, along with the location, and schedule. As a contractor, you will sign a temporary employment arrangement for a fixed period of time. In aviation, this type of work is particularly popular with flight crew, engineering and maintenance personnel.
What are the advantages of contracted work in aviation?
1. Greater flexibility
As a contractor, you have more freedom to choose the contracts you want to work on. This means you can take on shorter contracts that fit your schedule, or travel to different locations for work. If you are a parent, or have other family responsibilities, contracted work can allow you to better balance work and family life, without sacrificing your aviation career.
2. More diverse projects
This approach is particularly popular with engineers and flight crew as it allows them to move to different airlines after the completion of their contract, gaining more experience. You’ll have the chance to work on diverse contracts for different airlines, enhancing your skills and knowledge by exposing yourself to various work environments and practices. Additionally, working on multiple contracts can help you expand your connections, which is beneficial for future work opportunities.
3. Exposure to fresh challenges and different company cultures
Contracted work offers the advantage of constant change. As you move from one contract to another, you are presented with fresh challenges and opportunities to continually grow and push yourself professionally Additionally, working on different contracts allows you to effectively contribute and broaden your skill set, ultimately improving your ability to acquire new knowledge, and thrive in dynamic environments.
4. Great autonomy and independence
Contracted work may offer greater autonomy and independence as candidates have more control over their work and decision-making. This enables you to choose contracts that align with your interests and skills, resulting in increased job satisfaction.
What are the disadvantages of contracted vs permanent employment in aviation?
While engaging in contracted work can offer greater flexibility in both your professional and personal life, it’s not without its drawbacks. Considering both the advantages and disadvantages will help you make a better decision on which direction you want to take. Here are some factors to consider:
1. Job uncertainty
One of the main challenges of contracted work is the lack of job security and stability. As a contractor, you are responsible for finding new roles once your current contract ends. This can lead to periods of unemployment or uncertainty, especially during economic downturns or market fluctuations.
2. Lack of benefits
Contractors may not have access to the same benefits and protections as permanent employees. This includes health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. In most cases, contractors also have to manage their own taxes, insurance, and other administrative tasks, which can be complex and time-consuming.
3. Lack of development opportunities
If you work as a contractor, you may not have the same opportunities for training and growth like permanent employees. Contractors usually have to spend their own time and money to do training or obtain any additional certifications, which can create extra financial burdens and limited career advancement.
4. Time constraints and higher employer expectations
Aviation operations can be time-sensitive and require quick turnarounds. Contracted employees may be brought in to handle demand fluctuations or operations within tight deadlines, and employers expect them to deliver results within the given time frame. Make sure that you feel confident in your skills and knowledge to be able to deliver, and meet the airline standards.
Switching from contracted work to permanent and vice versa
Contracted work is highly advantageous in situations where personal circumstances change. For instance, following the arrival of a new family member, individuals often want to allocate more time towards their home-life responsibilities. In such cases, opting for contracted work provides a flexible arrangement that may accommodate their new schedule.
Transitioning from contracted work to permanent however, can sometimes be a challenging experience. As a contractor, you would have had freedom to choose your contracts and work schedule. However, transitioning to permanent employment means leaving behind that sense of autonomy.
Additionally, there may be a shift in the dynamics of your relationship with colleagues, as you move from being a temporary team member to a permanent one within the company. Overall, while the switch from contracted work to permanent can be daunting, it also offers new opportunities for career growth, stability, and the benefits that come with being a permanent employee.
In summary
In conclusion, there are pros and cons to both contracted work and permanent employment in the aviation industry. It ultimately depends on your personal preferences, financial goals, and desired work-life balance. Contracted work offers flexibility, and diverse experiences, while permanent employment provides stability and benefits. It's important to carefully consider your options and personal circumstances, and make a decision that aligns with your professional goals and lifestyle.
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