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Aviation Structural Mechanic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HOK

Structural - Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90 - $110/hr

... aviation, and healthcare sectors is a plus. * Mechanical: * Experience with analysis tools and ... Structural: * Experience with complex analysis tools for structural design. * Experience in the ...

HOK

Structural - Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

... aviation, and healthcare sectors is a plus. * Mechanical: * Experience with analysis tools and ... Structural: * Experience with complex analysis tools for structural design. * Experience in the ...

Archer

Senior Structural Analyst - (SJ2026PC)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$187K - $197K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering. Minimum Experience Requirements: Senior ... Archer Aviation does not engage with external recruiting agencies/individual recruiters with whom ...

Career Site

Aircraft Mechanic II (Power Plants)

Lemoore, CA · On-site

$27.25 - $36/hr

This mechanic maintains repairs and modifies aircraft structures and structural components of ... Aviation Life Support System (ALSS) Maintenance. * Central Technical Publications Library Programs ...

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Aviation Structural Mechanic information

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$16

$29

$46

How much do aviation structural mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for aviation structural 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 aviation structural mechanic?

Aviation Structural Mechanics are professionals responsible for maintaining, repairing, and inspecting the structural components of aircraft, such as the fuselage, wings, and landing gear. They ensure that all parts of the aircraft's structure are in good working condition and meet safety standards. Their duties often include troubleshooting structural problems, using technical manuals, and working with a variety of materials and tools. These mechanics play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and airworthiness of military or civilian aircraft.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an aviation structural mechanic?

To excel as an Aviation Structural Mechanic, you need strong knowledge of aircraft structures, repair techniques, and safety protocols, usually backed by a high school diploma or equivalent and formal technical training. Familiarity with specialized tools, blueprint reading, and aviation maintenance management systems, as well as certifications like Airframe and Powerplant (A&P), are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure aircraft integrity, regulatory compliance, and safe, efficient operations in a high-stakes environment.

What challenges do aviation structural mechanics face when working on aircraft maintenance and repairs?

Aviation Structural Mechanics often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, dealing with complex structural assemblies, and adhering to strict safety and quality standards. They may also need to troubleshoot unexpected issues with aircraft components, frequently requiring creative problem-solving under time constraints. Additionally, collaborating closely with other maintenance teams and adapting to rapidly changing priorities are key aspects of the role, ensuring aircraft are returned to service safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Aviation Structural Mechanic vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectAviation Structural MechanicAircraft Maintenance Technician
CertificationsFAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license, military certificationsFAA A&P license, industry certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, repair stations, aerospace facilitiesCommercial and private aircraft maintenance facilities
Job FocusAircraft structures, airframes, and related systemsOverall aircraft systems, including engines and avionics

Both roles require FAA A&P certification and involve aircraft repair and maintenance. However, Aviation Structural Mechanics primarily focus on aircraft structures and are often employed in military settings, while Aircraft Maintenance Technicians work across commercial and private sectors with a broader scope of aircraft systems.

How much does an aviation structural mechanic make?

An aviation structural mechanic typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They work on maintaining and repairing aircraft structures, often requiring specialized skills and security clearances.

What cities in California are hiring for Aviation Structural Mechanic jobs?

Cities in California with the most Aviation Structural Mechanic job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Aviation Structural Mechanic jobs in CA?

For Aviation Structural Mechanic jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Aviation Structural Mechanic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aviation Structural Mechanic job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,758 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Mechanical Design, Structures & Airframe - Engineer II/Senior

Los Angeles, CA • Hybrid

Heart Aerospace
See more jobs at Heart Aerospaceexternal

$124K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

At Heart Aerospace, we're shaping the future of sustainable aviation with the ES-30, a regional hybrid-electric aircraft designed to carry 30 passengers with a 200 km all-electric, zero-emission range and an extended 400 km hybrid range. Heart is targeting type certification by the end of the decade.

Your Mission

As a Mechanical Design Engineer, Structures & Airframe, you will design, analyze, and develop aircraft structural components. You will collaborate cross functionally to the design of the fuselage, wing, and empennage, working with both composite and metallic materials, while gaining hands-on exposure to certified aerospace hardware development in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

This is an exciting opportunity for a mechanical or aerospace engineer to contribute to the design and development of next-generation aircraft structures while building strong engineering fundamentals and growing into increased technical responsibility over time.

Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • This role is a Responsible Engineer (RE) who focuses on the design and development of aircraft structural components.
  • Create and release 3D CAD models, 2D drawings, and documentation using NX/Teamcenter or equivalent tools.
  • Optimize structural performance for cost and mass.
  • Perform structural analyses, hand calculations, and FEA activities with mentorship.
  • Define structural requirements, specifications, and test plans.
  • Own structural testing activities, data review, and documentation.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, and test teams to resolve design and build issues.
  • Participate in design reviews, continuous improvement and best practices.
  • Learn and apply aerospace standards, GD&T, and manufacturing fundamentals.

(This position can be hired as a Mechanical Design Engineer II or Senior Mechanical Design Engineer) 

Skills & Requirements:

You'll Bring These Qualifications for Mechanical Design Engineer II, Structures & Airframe:

  • 2+ years of professional experience in structural design, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience with CAD tools such as Siemens NX, CATIA, Creo, or SolidWorks
  • Understanding of engineering fundamentals, structural mechanics, and first principles
  • Exposure to composite and/or metallic structures through coursework, projects, or early industry experience
  • Familiarity with GD&T and basic manufacturing concepts
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and take technical direction
  • Passion for aircraft design and interest in sustainable aviation

You'll Bring These Qualifications for a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer, Structures & Airframe:

  • 5+ years experience in composite structural design
  • Experience with CAD tools such as Siemens NX, CATIA, Creo, or SolidWorks
  • Understanding of engineering fundamentals, structural mechanics, and first principles
  • Familiarity with GD&T and basic manufacturing concepts
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and take technical direction
  • Passion for aircraft design and interest in sustainable aviation

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.

These Qualifications Would Be Nice to Have:

  • Worked in a startup environment.
  • Hands-on exposure to composite or aluminum part fabrication.
  • Familiarity with NX, CATIA, or other advanced CAD platforms.
  • Academic or early exposure to FAA/EASA certification concepts.
  • Introductory experience with FEA tools and structural analysis methods.
  • Experience leading or working with structural testing, instrumentation, or data analysis.
  • Master's degree (or progress toward one) in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering.

Base Pay Range:

  • Mechanical Design Engineer II - $124,000 - $155,000.
  • Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - $140,000 - $176,000.

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