Drone Assembler Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Drone Assembly Technician

Job Description

As a Drone Assembly Technician, you will build, inspect, and support the integration of advanced drone systems used in real-world operational environments. You will assemble flight-critical structures, propulsion systems, and subsystems using precise methods and tooling, working closely with engineers and other technicians to ensure every vehicle meets rigorous mechanical and performance standards. Your work will span the full production lifecycle, from part preparation and alignment through final assembly and checkout. This is a hands-on, technical role where attention to detail, discipline, and accountability are essential, and the hardware you build will directly impact tactical readiness and mission success.

Responsibilities

• Assemble UAV components, mechanical sub-systems, and structural assemblies according to detailed specifications and work instructions.
• Ensure proper alignment, torque, and fastening of mechanical and structural components to meet quality and performance requirements.
• Interpret and follow engineering drawings, exploded views, wiring diagrams, and written build documentation with precision.
• Perform functional and mechanical checks on assemblies to verify form, fit, and basic performance prior to release.
• Assist with part preparation tasks including deburring, hand trimming, polishing, and post-cleaning to ensure parts are production-ready.
• Support additive manufacturing operations such as post-processing, racking, unloading, and material handling for 3D-printed components.
• Conduct basic mechanical and electrical integration, including installation of servos, sensors, harnesses, and avionics.
• Operate shop equipment such as drill presses, band saws, air tools, and torque drivers safely and effectively.
• Assist with shop floor logistics by staging kits, moving materials, and supporting shipping and receiving activities.
• Perform light preventative maintenance including coolant checks, electronic rework, and filter swaps on equipment as needed.
• Maintain detailed build records, logs, and checklists for assemblies and tasks to ensure accurate documentation and traceability.
• Identify, document, and promptly communicate issues or discrepancies to the manufacturing and engineering teams.
• Collaborate across teams to support iterative prototyping, teardowns, and rework cycles in a dynamic production environment.
• Uphold 5S, FOD, and ESD control standards and maintain shop cleanliness protocols on a daily basis.
• Adhere strictly to all safety procedures and immediately report potential hazards or unsafe conditions.
• Perform other tasks as directed, including general facility support and non-production duties when required.

Essential Skills

• Minimum 2+ years of hands-on experience in mechanical assembly, UAV systems, aerospace, automotive, machining, or a related technical field.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to follow detailed work instructions and interpret engineering drawings accurately.
• Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, precision instruments, and common shop equipment.
• Ability to visually and dimensionally inspect components to ensure compliance with specifications.
• High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and ability to maintain clean, accurate documentation of work performed.
• Self-directed work style and comfort operating in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
• Strong communication skills and a high level of accountability in team-based settings.
• Ability to lift up to 75 lbs and stand for extended periods in a hands-on production environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience with drones, UAVs, experimental aircraft, or aerospace vehicle integration.
• Familiarity with aerospace assembly methods, including riveting, mechanical fasteners, nut plates, bonding, and sealing.
• Exposure to additive manufacturing or CNC machining workflows.
• Experience conducting basic mechanical and electrical functional checks on assemblies.
• Skill in the use of calipers, height gauges, torque tools, and other inspection equipment.
• Experience working in a prototyping or low-rate production environment.
• Comfort with flexible schedules, second shifts, or occasional weekend work.

Why Work Here?

You will join a hands-on, innovation-driven environment where your work directly contributes to advanced aerospace systems deployed in real-world missions. The culture emphasizes safety, precision, and continuous improvement, giving you the opportunity to develop your technical skills while collaborating closely with engineers and fellow technicians. You will gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies such as UAV integration, additive manufacturing, and prototyping, in a setting that values teamwork, accountability, and professional growth.

Work Environment

This role is based on-site at a headquarters facility in San Diego, CA, in a manufacturing-focused, shop-floor environment. You will work daily in a hands-on setting with regular exposure to power tools, metal powders, high-temperature components, and 3D printing equipment. The position requires the ability to stand for extended periods and lift approximately 50–75 lbs. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required and provided, and strict adherence to safety protocols, cleanliness standards, and equipment handling procedures is expected.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of San Diego, CA.

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $30.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in San Diego,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 29, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.