Senior Aircraft Assembly Technician

Join The Founding Team For Pilatus' First Us Aircraft Assembly Line

Be part of the founding team launching the first US aircraft assembly line for Pilatus.

Pilatus Aircraft USA Ltd is launching a new PC-12 final assembly operation in Sarasota, Florida. To establish this operation successfully, we are seeking highly experienced aircraft assembly professionals to join our launch team.

Launch team members are selected based on proven hands-on experience, technical maturity, and the ability to work independently in a production environment.

Successful candidates will complete approximately 6-12 months of advanced, hands-on training at Pilatus headquarters in Stans, Switzerland, working directly within an established production line. Training starts summer 2026. Upon return to Sarasota, Launch Team members will work alongside Mentors from the Pilatus factory, serving as core technical experts, mentors, and potential future leaders, supporting ramp-up of the Sarasota assembly line and training of new personnel.

We invite you to visit our website to learn more about this opportunity.

Launch Team | Pilatus Aircraft

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

• Performs mechanical preparation and assembly of Pilatus PC-12 aircraft in accordance with approved work instructions
• Executes adjustment, rigging, and functional testing of aircraft systems and components
• Conducts self-inspection and documents work in compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements
• Learns and applies Pilatus production methods, standards, and best practices during the Switzerland training assignment
• Captures and transfers technical knowledge, processes, and lessons learned from Stans to the Sarasota assembly operation
• Supports development, standardization, and continuous improvement of US assembly processes
• Acts as a mentor and trainer for newly hired assembly mechanics during the Sarasota ramp-up phase
• Ensures all work meets applicable EASA regulations, company procedures, and customer quality expectations
• Supports additional projects or duties as assigned by leadership

Other Duties/Responsibilities

• Operates with a high level of autonomy and technical judgment
• Acts as a technical reference point for assembly processes and standards
• Proactively identifies gaps, risks, and improvement opportunities during ramp-up
• Leads by example in quality, workmanship, and regulatory compliance
• Supports early problem-solving before full production staffing is in place

Requirements

Skills/Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Minimum of 8+ years of hands-on experience in aircraft assembly, heavy maintenance, or precision mechanical assembly OR 2-year technical degree with 6+ years of relevant aircraft or high-precision mechanical experience
• FAA A&P license preferred, but not required for candidates with strong mechanical background
• Experience interpreting technical drawings, work instructions, and quality documentation
• Experience mentoring or informally training others is a strong plus
• Strong attention to detail with a quality mindset
• Willingness to work across multiple assembly stations and adapt to changing priorities
• Proficient in basic computer applications (Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook)
• Ability to attend extended training in Switzerland
• Must be able to climb ladders and stairs and work in restricted space

What We Offer:

• Unique opportunity to help launch Pilatus' first US PC-12 assembly line
• International training assignment, cultural exchange, language training at Pilatus headquarters in Stans, Switzerland (approx. 6-12 months)
• Comprehensive support package for the Switzerland assignment (details provided separately)
• Long-term career growth opportunities, including paths into Team Lead, Specialist or leadership roles as the program matures
• Competitive compensation, benefits, and retention incentives
• 11 paid holidays a year, plus 15 days of paid vacation time, and 6 days of paid sick/personal time to start with an increase to 20 days of paid vacation time after 5 years with Pilatus
• 90% of medical, dental, and vision premiums paid for single coverage and 80% for family coverage, averaging $9,600 annually
• Monthly health savings account (HSA) contributions totaling $2,250 for single coverage and $3,000 for family coverage annually
• 401(k) retirement plan matching up to 6%
• Life and long-term disability insurance premiums paid in full

The salary range for this position is $40.76 - 52.11 per hour depending on experience. Salary to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

Pilatus Aircraft USA Ltd provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.