Assembly

Aircraft Assembler 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 manufacturing environments. Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to meeting stringent quality standards. Why Work Here? You will join a production environment that offers long-term stability through a contract-to-permanent pathway, giving you the opportunity to build a lasting career in advanced aircraft structures and composite assembly. The workplace emphasizes safety, quality, and continuous improvement, providing hands-on experience with sophisticated equipment and complex aerospace assemblies. Regular overtime opportunities allow you to increase your earnings while working within a structured shift schedule, and the climate-controlled facility supports comfort and consistency throughout the year. You will collaborate with skilled professionals, develop your technical expertise, and contribute directly to high-profile aerospace programs in a supportive and team-oriented setting. Work Environment The role is full-time and based in a climate-controlled manufacturing facility focused on aircraft structures and composite assembly. 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 typically 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 when overtime is scheduled. The work environment is loud and fast-paced, with frequent exposure to vibration and occasional exposure to moving mechanical parts, fumes or airborne particles, and toxic or caustic chemicals. You will regularly use hands to handle tools and materials, stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms, and occasionally sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The role involves operating equipment such as forklifts, drill presses, floor-mounted rivet presses, overhead cranes, drill motors, countersink cutters, and various hand and precision measuring tools. Steel-toe boots are expected as part of the dress code, and all work is performed under established safety protocols, with reasonable accommodations available to support individuals with disabilities in performing essential functions. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Wichita, KS. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $25.00/hr. 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) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Wichita,KS. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jul 26, 2026.