Assembly

Aircraft Structures Assembler (Sheet Metal & Composite)This contract-to-permanent role focuses on assembling, modifying, and installing aircraft components, sub-assemblies, and structural assemblies in support of a major commercial aircraft program. You will work with close tolerance drilling on sheet metal skins and composite structures, using blueprints, work orders, and specialized tools to meet strict quality and safety standards. The position offers full-time hours on either first or second shift in a climate-controlled production environment with regular overtime opportunities.ResponsibilitiesAssemble, modify, and install aircraft components, sub-assemblies, and structural assemblies in accordance with customer requirements and internal specifications.Work from blueprints, specifications, and work orders to perform complex assembly and ensure all work meets quality and configuration requirements.Perform close tolerance drilling on sheet metal skins and composite structures, using appropriate tools and fixtures to maintain dimensional accuracy.Set up and operate various shop equipment, including drill motors, countersink cutters, squeezes, precision measuring tools, and floor-mounted rivet presses.Complete required data collection and documentation to track assembly progress and maintain accurate records of work performed.Identify nonconforming parts, conditions, and manufacturing processes, and escalate issues in accordance with established procedures.Perform riveting, complex assembly, and unique shimming tasks on structures, frames, and composite assemblies, including 787 frames composite assembly and spares.Demonstrate the ability to assemble major components of sub-assemblies and major assemblies, as well as smaller bench work assemblies.Troubleshoot issues that arise during assembly and contribute ideas to improve processes, quality, and efficiency.Move and obtain correct parts, materials, tools, and assemblies as needed to maintain workflow and minimize delays.Perform any required rework or changes incorporated during the assembly process, ensuring all modifications are properly documented.Follow all safety procedures when working near moving mechanical parts, vibration, fumes, airborne particles, and chemicals.Communicate verbally with team members and supervisors regarding work status, issues, and process changes, and record process information as required.Use proper material handling equipment such as forklifts and overhead cranes as needed to position parts and assemblies safely.Maintain a clean, organized work area and support continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives.Essential SkillsHigh school diploma or general education degree (GED), or an equivalent combination of education and experience.One to two years of related experience and/or training in aircraft structures, sheet metal, or complex assembly, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.Two to five years of complex assembly experience, including work with aircraft structures or similar high-precision assemblies.Two to five years of structures experience, preferably involving sheet metal, composite materials, or structural repairs.Hands-on experience with sheet metal fabrication and assembly, including close tolerance drilling on sheet metal skins.Proficiency in interpreting and working from blueprints, specifications, and work orders.Experience with riveting and structural assembly methods using hand tools and powered tools.Ability to perform complex assembly tasks, including complex compound unique shimming and structural alignment.Familiarity with composite fabrication and composite materials used in aircraft structures.Ability to use precision measuring tools and equipment to verify dimensions and ensure quality.Strong time management skills to meet production schedules and manage multiple tasks.Ability to communicate verbally regarding work processes and issues with supervisors and team members.Ability to write and record process information clearly and accurately.Capability to safely operate equipment such as forklifts, drill presses, floor-mounted rivet presses, and overhead cranes.Physical ability to regularly use hands, talk, and hear; frequently stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms; and occasionally sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.Physical ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds in a manufacturing environment.Additional Skills & QualificationsSix months of vocational training in a relevant trade or technical field.Previous experience working on major aircraft programs, particularly with large commercial airframe structures.Experience with 787 frames composite assembly or similar composite structural assemblies.Experience in structures mechanic work, including repair, modification, and assembly of aircraft structures.Experience working with complex assemblies and spares in an aerospace or similar high-precision environment.Familiarity with composite fabrication processes and handling of composite materials.Exposure to high-volume production environments with a focus on quality and continuous improvement.Comfort working in a loud manufacturing environment with vibration and occasional exposure to fumes, airborne particles, and chemicals.Why Work Here?You will join a highly skilled team in a climate-controlled aerospace manufacturing environment where quality, safety, and continuous improvement are top priorities. The role offers full-time hours with consistent overtime opportunities, allowing you to grow your skills while contributing to a major commercial aircraft program. You can develop your expertise in advanced structures, composites, and complex assembly, while working with professional tools and equipment under established processes and support. The contract-to-permanent structure provides a pathway to long-term stability and career growth for individuals who perform well and demonstrate a strong work ethic.Work EnvironmentThis is a full-time, contract-to-permanent position in a climate-controlled manufacturing facility focused on aircraft structures and composite assemblies. First shift typically runs from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, with overtime commonly available on Saturdays from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Second shift generally runs from 2:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Monday through Thursday, with additional work on Fridays and Saturdays as needed, targeting approximately 60 hours per week; second shift does not typically work on Sundays. The role involves regular use of equipment such as forklifts, drill presses, floor-mounted rivet presses, overhead cranes, drill motors, countersink cutters, squeezes, and precision measuring tools. The environment includes frequent exposure to vibration and occasional exposure to moving mechanical parts, fumes or airborne particles, and toxic or caustic chemicals. Noise levels are usually loud, and appropriate hearing protection and safety equipment are provided and expected to be used. Employees are expected to wear steel toe boots in accordance with facility safety and dress requirements. The position requires standing and walking for extended periods, frequent reaching with hands and arms, and occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling, with reasonable accommodations available as needed.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Wichita, KS.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $25.00 - $25.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 5, 2026.Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Wichita,KS.