Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers

Assemble, fit, fasten, and install parts of airplanes, space vehicles, or missiles, such as tails, wings, fuselage, bulkheads, stabilizers, landing gear, rigging and control equipment, or heating and ventilating systems.

Median Annual Wage: $48,340

Education: High school diploma or equivalent (55%); Bachelor's degree (16%); Post-secondary certificate (16%)

Projected Growth: Slower than average (3% to 7%)

Related Job Titles: Assembler; Sheet Metal Mechanic; Sheet Metal Assembler and Riveter (SMAR); Structures Technician; Aircraft Line Assembler; Assembly Riveter; Helicopter Technician; Structures Mechanic; Fabricator; A&P Technician (Airframe and Powerplant Technician)

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers.

More Production Careers

  • Read blueprints, illustrations, or specifications to determine layouts, sequences of operations, or identities or relationships of parts.
  • Attach brackets, hinges, or clips to secure or support components or subassemblies, using bolts, screws, rivets, chemical bonding, or welding.
  • Inspect or test installed units, parts, systems, or assemblies for fit, alignment, performance, defects, or compliance with standards, using measuring instruments or test equipment.
  • Adjust, repair, rework, or replace parts or assemblies to ensure proper operation.
  • Cut, trim, file, bend, or smooth parts to ensure proper fit and clearance.
  • Fabricate parts needed for assembly or installation, using shop machinery or equipment.
  • Layout and mark reference points and locations for installation of parts or components, using jigs, templates, or measuring and marking instruments.
  • Clean, oil, or coat system components as necessary before assembly or attachment.
  • Assemble prefabricated parts to form subassemblies.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers.

  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Time Management - Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Equipment Maintenance - Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers.

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