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Aircraft Assembly Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Aircraft Maintenance Technician

Palmdale, CA ยท On-site

$33.50 - $43.25/hr

Aircraft assembly may include cable routing, installation of aircraft system components ... installation of engine support systems, and airframe related items. * Perform and assist with off ...

Successful candidates will perform aircraft assembly, cable routing, wiring harness installation, testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance activities using engineering drawings, work instructions ...

Structural aircraft assembly experience (drilling, countersinking, riveting airframe components) * Working knowledge of aerospace customer specifications and requirements * Experience setting up or ...

Successful candidates will perform aircraft assembly, cable routing, wiring harness installation, testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance activities using engineering drawings, work instructions ...

Structural aircraft assembly experience (drilling, countersinking, riveting airframe components) * Working knowledge of aerospace customer specifications and requirements * Experience setting up or ...

Structural aircraft assembly experience (drilling, countersinking, riveting airframe components) * Working knowledge of aerospace customer specifications and requirements * Experience setting up or ...

Structural aircraft assembly experience (drilling, countersinking, riveting airframe components) * Working knowledge of aerospace customer specifications and requirements * Experience setting up or ...

May perform electronic assembly soldering, crimping, splicing and harness fabrication, and control panel building. * Consistently performs to established production standards. Aircraft Assembler ...

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Aircraft Assembly information

See California salary details

$15

$26

$42

How much do aircraft assembly jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft assembly in California is $26.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $33.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aircraft assembly job?

Aircraft assembly jobs involve putting together the various parts and systems of an aircraft, such as the fuselage, wings, engines, and avionics. These roles require workers to follow detailed technical drawings, use specialized tools, and ensure all components meet strict safety and quality standards. Aircraft assemblers may work on production lines or in specialized facilities for commercial, military, or private aircraft. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and knowledge of safety protocols are essential for success in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in aircraft assembly, and why are they important?

To thrive in Aircraft Assembly, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or technical certification in aerospace or manufacturing. Familiarity with hand and power tools, blueprint reading, and manufacturing systems such as lean production are typically required. Teamwork, problem-solving, and a commitment to quality are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safety, accuracy, and efficiency in assembling complex aircraft components according to strict industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in aircraft assembly, and how can they be managed?

Aircraft Assembly professionals often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to safety and quality standards, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, and meeting tight production deadlines. Managing these challenges typically involves clear communication, attention to detail, and ongoing training in both technical skills and regulatory compliance. Teamwork is crucial, as assemblers regularly collaborate with engineers, inspectors, and supply chain staff to ensure that every component is correctly installed and functioning. Embracing a proactive approach to problem-solving and staying updated on industry best practices can help professionals excel in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Aircraft Assembly vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectAircraft AssemblyAircraft Maintenance Technician
Primary RoleAssembling aircraft components during manufacturingInspecting, repairing, and maintaining aircraft in service
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, assembly linesAirports, maintenance hangars, repair stations
CertificationsTypically no specific certifications requiredFAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license
Work FocusBuilding and assembling aircraft partsDiagnosing issues and performing repairs

While both roles involve aircraft, Aircraft Assembly focuses on constructing aircraft during manufacturing, whereas Aircraft Maintenance Technicians maintain and repair aircraft in operation. The roles differ in certifications, work environment, and daily tasks, but both are essential in the aviation industry.

How do you get into aircraft assembly?

To become an aircraft assembler, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with on-the-job training or technical schooling in aircraft systems or manufacturing. Relevant skills include attention to detail, manual dexterity, and familiarity with tools and safety procedures; some positions may require certifications such as OSHA or specific technical licenses.

How much do aircraft assemblers make?

Aircraft assemblers typically earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced workers or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.

What do aircraft assembly workers do?

Aircraft assembly workers build, install, and inspect aircraft components according to engineering specifications and safety standards. They use hand tools, power tools, and sometimes computer-aided design (CAD) software in a clean, organized environment, often working in teams to ensure quality and efficiency.

What cities in California are hiring for Aircraft Assembly jobs?

Cities in California with the most Aircraft Assembly job openings:

Infographic showing various Aircraft Assembly job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,185 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Inspect Aircraft Assembly and Modification

Palmdale, CA โ€ข On-site

Phenom People
1 - 5K employees

$27.42 - $46.82/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Aircraft Assembly And Modification Inspector

Inspects and/or witnesses, approves or rejects the assembly, modification, repair and operational checkout of production or modified components, parts, and aircraft up to the point of fully completed aircraft prior to flight line operations. Once the aircraft assumes flight operations status, this will require a Flight Operations or Master Inspector. The Aircraft Assembly and Modification Inspector will verify conformance to engineering prerelease or released drawings or sketches, heat treat, processing, finish to applicable standards and specifications. Inspects products for adherence to latest design or modification changes, customer of F.A.A. requirements and Company specifications exercising a knowledge of structures assembly, electrical systems, functional systems, accessories, power plant installation, instruments and interior furnishings; conducts complete area by area inspection during assembly and/or after completion or modification; inspects operations such as tool loading, framing, skinning, mating and assembly of structural components; inspects alignment of components, freedom of movement, clearances, tension and throw limits of entire functional systems and completed or modified products; witnesses continuity tests and inspects the assembly, installation and operational checkout of entire electrical systems, accessories and rigging of structural and functional components, such as wings to fuselage, power plants to structure, empennage to fuselage, landing gear, elevators, flaps, ailerons and stabilizers for attachments, alignment, workmanship, completeness and conformance to drawings and specifications; inspects the sealing of structural and functional installation for completeness, workmanship, freedom from foreign material and sealability.

Inspects, makes and/or witnesses continuity tests; inspects, approves or rejects electrical assemblies and components on benches or wire boards, such as instrument panels, control panels, wiring harnesses, junction and switch boxes; checks for proper hookup, routing, clearance, coding, location of electrical wiring and components and conformance to specifications; inspects the incorporation of design or modification changes on assemblies described herein; stamps or otherwise approves acceptable items; rejects unacceptable items and prepares documentation for disposition of same; advises authorized personnel as required, of cause of malfunctioning.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Able to utilize MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
  • Experience with process and procedures.
  • Experience with manufacturing such as assembler or inspectors.
  • Familiar with electronic work authorization databases

Desired Skills:

  • Have used precision measuring tools (micrometer, depth gauges, torque wrenches, borescopes, etc.)
  • Previous woodwork, mechanical, electrical, fabrication, metal/ machine work, or inspection experience
  • Experience reading blueprints, drawings, to preform installations/removals of parts from components
  • Able to work both independently and as a teammate
  • GED/High School Diploma

Security Clearance Statement: This position requires a government security clearance, you must be a US Citizen for consideration.

Clearance Level: Secret

Other Important Information You Should Know

Expression of Interest: By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.

Ability to Work Remotely: Onsite Full-time: The work associated with this position will be performed onsite at a designated Lockheed Martin facility.

Work Schedules: Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.

Schedule for this Position: 9x80 every other Friday off

The base range for this position in California is $27.42 - $46.82..

Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays. The wage range and benefits summary is a general guideline and is governed by the applicable collective bargaining agreement when extending an offer.

Lockheed Martin is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.