Helicopter Sheet Metal Specialist

Description

Job purpose

The Sheet Metal Technician is responsible for inspecting, fabricating, modifying, repairing, and installing sheet metal structures on rotary-wing aircraft in accordance with manufacturer specifications, engineering drawings, and aviation regulatory standards. This role is critical in ensuring airframe integrity, safety, and optimal performance.

Duties and Responsibilities

· Inspect and assess damage to sheet metal structures on helicopters.

· Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, engineering orders, and OEM manuals.

· Fabricate replacement parts and assemblies using metal forming techniques and equipment.

· Remove, repair, and reinstall aircraft skin panels, stringers, bulkheads, and other structural components.

· Perform drilling, riveting, bending, cutting, filing, deburring, and sealing tasks.

· Use precision tools and measurement devices to ensure accuracy and fit.

· Complete repairs in accordance with FAA regulations, OEM specs, and internal procedures.

· Document all repairs and modifications in maintenance logs and work orders.

· Work closely with engineering, maintenance, and inspection teams for signoffs and quality control.

Workplace Safety:

· Adhere to OSHA, FAA, and company-specific safety guidelines at all times.

· Utilize proper PPE including gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, and respiratory protection when required.

· Operate tools and equipment in accordance with safety protocols.

· Maintain clean, organized, and hazard-free areas.

· Report any safety concerns, accidents, or near misses immediately

SOP/KPIs:

· Follow all SOPs for structural repair, fabrication, and assembly tasks.

· Ensure all work complies with company and regulatory standards.

· Meet or exceed KPIs including:

o Work order completion rate

o Quality assurance pass rate

o Rework frequency

o Safety compliance metrics

Team Support :

· Collaborate effectively with maintenance technicians, engineers, and inspectors.

· Support project teams during helicopter refurbishment, modification, or heavy maintenance visits.

· Assist and mentor junior technicians or apprentices when needed.

· Communicate progress and potential issues clearly with supervisors and team leads.

· Maintain best practices and a positive working environment with all parties at the worksite.

· Coordinate with other departments to achieve outlined goals.

· Respond to communications (e-mails, meeting requests, Teams messages, etc.) set by team members in a timely and friendly manner.

· Learn SmartSheets project management software and take ownership of assigned projects. Aid in the evolution of usage of this platform by spearheading best practices adoption.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Experience: 3+ years of experience in aircraft sheet metal work, preferably on helicopters or rotary-wing aircraft.
• Certifications: Completion of an FAA-approved Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) school or equivalent training preferred.
• Legal: Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Required Behaviors :

· High attention to detail with a strong commitment to precision and quality.

· Professional, dependable, and safety conscious.

· Strong work ethic and willingness to adapt to changing priorities.

· Accountability and pride in workmanship.

Hard Skills & Education:

• Education: High school diploma or GED required, A&P License preferred.
• Technical Skills:

o Skilled in using hand tools, power tools, and specialized aviation sheet metal equipment.

o Proficient in riveting, countersinking, drilling, dimpling, and forming sheet metal.

o Ability to read and interpret complex technical documents and engineering instructions.

o Understanding of aircraft structures and material types including aluminum alloys and composite interfaces.

Specific Soft Skills (examples):

· Effective communication skills and teamwork mentality.

· Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.

· Ability to manage time efficiently and work under tight deadlines.

· Commitment to continuous learning and improvement

Working conditions

· Indoor hangar environment with occasional outdoor work depending on project needs.

· Exposure to noise, vibration, sharp tools, and metal particles—PPE required.

· May be required to work overtime, weekends, or night shifts as project demands dictate.

· Must pass drug screening, background checks, and regulatory compliance requirements

Essential Job Functions

· Structural inspection, repair, and modification of helicopter sheet metal components.

· Reading and applying information from blueprints, drawings, and technical manuals.

· Operating sheet metal tools and equipment.

· Recording work performed for regulatory and internal documentation.

· Ensuring airworthiness and structural integrity of aircraft components

Physical requirements

· Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.

· Frequent standing, climbing, bending, kneeling, and working in confined or elevated spaces.

· Good manual dexterity, vision, and hand-eye coordination.

· Capable of wearing safety gear for extended periods

Direct reports

None