Sheet Metal Assembler And Riveter

Job Title: Aircraft Structures Assembler

Job Description

This contract-to-permanent role focuses on the assembly, modification, and installation of aircraft components, sub-assemblies, and structural assemblies in accordance with customer requirements and established shop practices. The position requires hands-on experience with basic sheet metal work, riveting, and complex assembly methods, as well as the ability to identify and address nonconforming parts, conditions, and manufacturing processes. You will work on advanced composite assemblies, including large aircraft frame structures, in a climate-controlled manufacturing environment on either first or second shift with regular overtime opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Interpret and work from blueprints, specifications, and work orders to assemble components that meet all quality and engineering requirements.
• Perform basic sheet metal fabrication, riveting, and assembly operations using common shop practices and established procedures.
• Assemble, modify, and install aircraft components, sub-assemblies, and structural assemblies, including complex and large frame structures.
• Complete required data gathering and documentation to track assembly progress and record process information accurately.
• Set up and operate various shop equipment such as squeezes, drill motors, countersink cutters, precision measuring tools, forklift, drill press, floor-mounted rivet press, and overhead crane.
• Troubleshoot assembly issues as they arise, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions while continually seeking process improvements.
• Perform all required rework, adjustments, and changes incorporated during the assembly process to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Demonstrate the ability to assemble major components of sub-assemblies, large structural assemblies, and smaller bench work assemblies with high attention to detail.
• Move, stage, and obtain correct parts, materials, tools, and assemblies to maintain efficient workflow and minimize downtime.
• Interpret complex blueprints and work instructions for composite and metal structures, including unique shimming and spares assembly.
• Communicate verbally with team members and supervisors regarding work processes, status, and any issues impacting quality or schedule.
• Maintain accurate written records of process information, rework performed, and any deviations identified during assembly.
• Adhere to all safety procedures and guidelines when working near moving mechanical parts, using shop equipment, and handling chemicals or composite materials.
• Identify nonconforming parts, conditions, and manufacturing processes, and escalate or document issues in accordance with quality standards.
• Support a team-oriented environment by collaborating with other assemblers, mechanics, and support staff to meet production goals and customer requirements.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED), or one to two years of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Two to five years of complex assembly experience in a manufacturing or aerospace environment.
• Two to five years of aircraft structures experience, including sheet metal and structural assembly work.
• Hands-on experience with basic sheet metal fabrication and assembly methods.
• Proficiency in riveting techniques and use of rivet-related equipment.
• Ability to interpret and work from blueprints and technical drawings.
• Experience with complex assembly work, including compound and unique shimming operations.
• Familiarity with composite materials, composite fabrication, and composite assembly processes.
• Ability to use hand tools and precision measuring tools safely and accurately.
• Effective time management skills to work within production schedules and meet deadlines.
• Ability to communicate verbally regarding work processes and collaborate with team members.
• Ability to write and record process information clearly and accurately.
• Capability to lift and move up to 25 pounds and perform frequent standing, walking, and reaching with hands and arms.
• Willingness and ability to work full-time on structured shifts with regular overtime, including some Fridays and Saturdays.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Six months of vocational training in a relevant trade or technical discipline is preferred.
• Previous experience with major aerospace manufacturers or large aircraft structures is preferred.
• Experience working on composite aircraft frames and complex structural assemblies such as 787 composite frames.
• Experience in structures mechanic work, including complex assembly and spares assembly.
• Comfort working with drill motors, countersink cutters, forklift, drill press, floor-mounted rivet press, and overhead crane.
• Ability to troubleshoot assembly issues and propose process improvements.
• Experience working in loud, high-activity manufactu…