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Aircraft Assembly Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Aircraft Maintenance Technician

Palmdale, CA · 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 ...

General Atomics

Aircraft Technician

Poway, CA · On-site

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

General Atomics

Aircraft Technician

Poway, CA · On-site

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

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 · 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 · 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 ...

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 ...

Seneca

Manufacturing Operations Lead

Sausalito, CA · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

You will perform aircraft assembly and test yourself, using firsthand build experience to create practical work instructions, improve production processes, and give Engineering actionable design-for ...

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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 Sep 4, 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 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,185 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Aircraft Maintenance Technician

General Atomics

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$33.50 - $43.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 hours ago

General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
We have an exciting opportunity for an individual who is currently enrolled in an aviation or technical education program or someone pursuing a career as a Aircraft Technician. This position under supervision, is responsible for assembly, test, and repair of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) in accordance with technical specifications, engineering instructions and technical orders, procedures, and regulations to ensure customer specifications are met.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • 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 and assist in installation and test of electro/mechanical actuators, landing gear, fuel systems, and avionics systems with limited supervision.
  • 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-aircraft assembly of spare components and support equipment.
  • Must be able to read and understand blueprints, drawings, and engineering specifications.
  • Must have familiarization using conventional hand tools, calipers, micrometers, torque wrenches, and Fluke meters.
  • Knowledge of office personal computer operating systems is required.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
  • Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating practices and procedures.
  • May require working extended hours when required. Other duties as assigned or requested.
  • This facility operates on a 9/80 schedule.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires associate's degree or equivalent with two or more years of experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
  • Must be able to work with common hand tools.
  • Must be able to perform a variety of routine tasks and demonstrate a good working knowledge of laboratory equipment and procedures.
  • Ability and willingness to work on systems which have unusual conditions such as high pressure, high voltage, high energy, cryogens, or radioactive materials.
  • Knowledge of computer operations and applications pertinent to the field required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD clearance is required.

What General Atomics employees say

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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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