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Aircraft Structures Mechanic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Amentum

Aircraft Mechanic III

Lancaster, CA · On-site

$56.90/hr

Aircraft Mechanic III- Edwards Performs inspection, maintenance and troubleshooting tasks on ... Inspects aircraft structures, systems, components, and related systems. * Responsibility to oversee ...

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Aircraft Mechanic I (Airframes)

Lemoore, CA · On-site

$27.25 - $36/hr

This mechanic repairs, replaces, and rebuilds aircraft structures, such as wings and fuselage, and functional components including rigging, surface controls, and plumbing and hydraulic units, using ...

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Aircraft Mechanic I (Airframes)

Oceanside, CA

$30.50 - $40/hr

The Aircraft Mechanic I troubleshoots malfunctions in aircraft structure, landing gear, flight surfaces and controls, anti-icing, pneudraulic, engines, auxiliary power unit, and ventilation and ...

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Aircraft Mechanic II (Airframes)

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$30.50 - $40/hr

This mechanic maintains repairs and modifies aircraft structures and structural components of moderate difficulty, maintains and repairs aircraft components including but not limited to flight ...

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Aircraft Mechanic I (Power Plant)

Lemoore, CA · On-site

$27.25 - $36/hr

The Aircraft Mechanic I troubleshoots malfunctions in aircraft structure, landing gear, flight surfaces and controls, anti-icing, pneudraulic, engines, auxiliary power unit, and ventilation and ...

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Aircraft Mechanic I (Avionics)

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$30.50 - $40/hr

This mechanic repairs, replaces, and rebuilds aircraft structures, such as wings and fuselage, and functional components including rigging, surface controls, and plumbing and hydraulic units, using ...

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Aircraft Structures Mechanic information

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$16

$29

$46

How much do aircraft structures mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft structures mechanic in California is $29.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $36.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aircraft structures mechanic?

Aircraft Structures Mechanics are skilled technicians responsible for repairing, maintaining, and assembling the structural components of aircraft, such as the fuselage, wings, and tail sections. They work with metals, composites, and other materials to ensure that the aircraft's frame remains safe and airworthy. Their duties include inspecting for damage, interpreting technical drawings, and using specialized tools to carry out repairs or modifications according to strict aviation regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aircraft structures mechanic?

To thrive as an Aircraft Structures Mechanic, you need expertise in reading blueprints, metal fabrication, and structural repair, typically supported by an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification or equivalent technical training. Proficiency with precision measuring instruments, power tools, and specialized software for maintenance documentation is important. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and strong teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant maintenance of aircraft, which is critical for passenger safety and regulatory adherence.

What are some typical challenges aircraft structures mechanics face when working on modern aircraft models?

Aircraft Structures Mechanics often encounter challenges such as adapting to new materials like advanced composites, which require specialized repair techniques compared to traditional metals. Keeping up with evolving industry standards and intricate structural designs can also be demanding. Additionally, working within tight deadlines to ensure aircraft return to service promptly, while maintaining strict safety and quality standards, is a common expectation. Collaboration with engineers and other maintenance personnel is frequent, especially when troubleshooting complex structural issues.

What is the difference between Aircraft Structures Mechanic vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectAircraft Structures MechanicAircraft Maintenance Technician
CertificationsFAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license, structural repair certificationsFAA A&P license, general maintenance certifications
Work EnvironmentAircraft hangars, repair stations, manufacturing facilitiesAirports, maintenance bases, repair shops
Job FocusRepairing and maintaining aircraft structures, fuselage, wingsPerforming inspections, troubleshooting, and general maintenance
Industry UsageAircraft manufacturing, repair, and overhaulCommercial and private airline maintenance

The main difference is that Aircraft Structures Mechanics specialize in repairing and maintaining aircraft structures like fuselages and wings, often requiring structural certifications. Aircraft Maintenance Technicians perform broader maintenance tasks, including inspections and troubleshooting. Both roles require FAA A&P certification and work in similar environments, but their focus areas differ within the aviation maintenance industry.

What cities in California are hiring for Aircraft Structures Mechanic jobs?

Cities in California with the most Aircraft Structures Mechanic job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Aircraft Structures Mechanic jobs in CA?

For Aircraft Structures Mechanic jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Aircraft Structures Mechanic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aircraft Structures Mechanic 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 $61,758 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Aircraft Structures Mechanic Entry & Level 1

Palmdale, CA • On-site

Northrop Grumman Corporation
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 366 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 544 rated manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Northrop Grumman Corporationexternal

$30.75 - $40.25/hr

Other

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Job Description
If you join Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems in this position, you will assist our Manufacturing Operations Organization as an Aircraft Structures Mechanic Entry Level and Level 1 supporting our Palmdale, CA site. This role is for a hands-on person with great attention to detail, top focus on quality and excellent people skills. If you are intrigued by this opportunity keep reading below.
Essential Functions:
  • Read and understand blueprints
  • Translate blueprints into fabrications of structural assemblies to include precision drilling, countersinking, and the use of calibrated tools
  • Aligning parts on jigs using templates and fixtures
  • Performing part-fitting operations: filing sawing, burring, crimping, trimming, framing, riveting, drilling and reaming
  • Measures parts with precision tools such as, micrometers and calipers to verify dimensions
  • May modify incomplete and complete assemblies to incorporate changes to structure and verify quality in accordance with statistical process or other control procedure
  • Daily usage of manufacturing shop controls and systems
  • Use of appropriate PPE when working on the shop floor
  • Recommend and implement continuous improvement activities in production methods, equipment performance and team effectiveness

Basic Qualifications:
Aircraft Structures Mechanic Entry Level
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Minimum of 3 months' structures/sheet metal experience in an aerospace, automotive, military, manufacturing and/or maintenance environment OR AFAB Student must have a minimum of 3.0 or higher GPA upon completion of Aircraft Fabrication courses OR A&P certificate program.
  • This position requires the ability to perform moderate strenuous physical and repetitious work to include bending, stooping, kneeling, standing, walking, squatting, crawling, twisting, carrying tools, lifting to 35 pounds and working with arms overhead
  • Must be able to access small, confined spaces and work in an enclosed environment
  • Ability to pass medical/respiratory evaluation to obtain and maintain necessary respirator clearance and compliance with all respirators fitting requirements
  • Must be able to pass a New Hire Physical prior to starting
  • The ability to work 1st "5 AM - 3:30 PM" or 2nd shift "4:12 PM - 2:42 AM" and any work schedule
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Government Secret or Top-Secret Clearance as well as Program Special access within a reasonable period, as determined by the company to meet its business needs. US citizenship required for clearance.
  • The ability to utilize a computer for basic functions (including navigating through windows operating systems, getting online, executing online training modules and ability to be trained using on the job software)
  • Must successfully complete and pass the "ASTAR New Hire Training / Compliance" within a reasonable period, as defined by the company to meet its business need

Aircraft Structures Mechanic Level 1
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Minimum of 9 months structures/sheet metal experience in an aerospace, automotive, military, manufacturing and/or maintenance environment OR AFAB Student must have a minimum of 3.0 or higher GPA upon completion of Aircraft Fabrication courses OR A&P certificate program.
  • This position requires the ability to perform moderate strenuous physical and repetitious work to include bending, stooping, kneeling, standing, walking, squatting, crawling, twisting, carrying tools, lifting to 35 pounds and working with arms overhead
  • Must be able to access small, confined spaces and work in an enclosed environment
  • Ability to pass medical/respiratory evaluation to obtain and maintain necessary respirator clearance and compliance with all respirators fitting requirements
  • Must be able to pass a New Hire Physical prior to starting
  • The ability to work 1st "5 AM - 3:30 PM" or 2nd shift "4:12 PM - 2:42 AM" and any work schedule
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Government Secret or Top-Secret Clearance as well as Program Special access within a reasonable period, as determined by the company to meet its business needs. US citizenship required for clearance.
  • The ability to utilize a computer for basic functions (including navigating through windows operating systems, getting online, executing online training modules and ability to be trained using on the job software)
  • Must successfully complete and pass the "ASTAR New Hire Training / Compliance" within a reasonable period, as defined by the company to meet its business need.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Structures/sheet metal experience in aerospace manufacturing environment
  • Completion of an A&P certificate program
  • Active Government Secret Clearance with a background investigation completed within the last six years

Primary Level Salary Range: $25.00 - $28.25
Secondary Level Salary Range: $0.00 - $0.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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