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Aircraft Assembly Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Laborup

Aerospace Assembly Technician

Anaheim, CA

$75K/yr

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

Laborup

Aerospace Assembly Technician

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$75K/yr

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

Laborup

Aerospace Assembly Technician

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$75K/yr

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

Laborup

Aerospace Assembly Technician

Anaheim, CA

$75K/yr

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

Kratos Defense

Aircraft Assembler I-III

Sacramento, CA

$24 - $33/hr

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

General Atomics

Technician III

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$56K - $83K/yr

Responsibilities include aircraft assembly, test, and repair of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV). * Must be detail-oriented, deadline sensitive and able to work effectively in a team setting. * Perform ...

General Atomics

Technician III

Poway, CA · On-site

$56K - $83K/yr

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

General Atomics

Technician III

Poway, CA · On-site

$56K - $83K/yr

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

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All JobsAircraft Assembly JobsAircraft Assembly Jobs in California

Aircraft Assembly information

See California salary details

$15

$26

$42

How much do aircraft assembly jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 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 are popular job titles related to Aircraft Assembly jobs in California?

For Aircraft Assembly jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aircraft Assembly jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Aircraft Assembly jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Aircraft Assembly jobs?

Cities in California with the most Aircraft Assembly job openings:

Aircraft Assembly jobs near you
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.

Aerospace Assembly Technician

Laborup

Anaheim, CA

$75K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Overview

We're hiring Aerospace Assembly Technicians for our aerospace and defense manufacturing facility outside of Anaheim, CA

This is blueprint-driven structural assembly, building complex, multi-part assemblies that feed into larger aerospace and defense sub-systems. You'll work straight from engineering drawings to locate, drill, countersink, fasten, and align components to tight aerospace specifications.

The work is hands-on and precise: pneumatic drills, C-squeezes, rivet pullers, jigs and fixtures, and precision measuring instruments, with quality documentation behind everything you build.

Why Join Us

  • Real aerospace craftsmanship: Blueprint-driven structural assembly, not repetitive line work
  • High-impact work: Assemblies that go into high-stakes aerospace and defense sub-systems
  • Financial impact: 45-hour weeks + additional optional overtime

Compensation

  • $26-$30/hr
  • 45-hour week + additional optional overtime
  • Up to $75k/yr (including overtime)

Hiring on 1st Shift

  • Monday - Friday

Responsibilities

  • Blueprints: Determine detail and hardware locations from engineering drawings, mylars, and the shop router
  • Layout: Locate and mark reference points and holes using jigs, templates, and measuring instruments
  • Drilling & Fastening: Drill and countersink to fastener requirements; bolt, screw, and rivet components and subassemblies
  • Fit-Up & Alignment: Trim, shim, and cut to fit components; position and align subassemblies in jigs and fixtures to blueprint lines and index points
  • Installation: Install units, brackets, hinges, and clips into structural assemblies per blueprint and customer specifications
  • Inspection: Inspect and test installed units for fit, performance, and compliance using precision measuring instruments

Requirements

Requirements

  • 2+ years of aerospace or aircraft assembly experience
  • Reads and interprets engineering blueprints, drawings, and specifications
  • Hands-on with hand tools, pneumatic tools, and riveting equipment
  • Precision measurement with calipers, micrometers, and similar instruments
  • Excellent attention to detail and hand-eye coordination
  • U.S. person (citizen or permanent resident) - ITAR-regulated facility

Preferred:

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

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