Jet Zero Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market. 

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet-powered subscale targets has established us as a go-to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price. 

At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

Successful candidate installs, tests, troubleshoots, and repairs avionics systems wiring in aircraft in accordance with technical specifications, engineering instructions, and DoD regulations. Fabricates, installs and tests installation, routing, clamping and wiring harnesses. Reads wiring diagrams and blueprints. Assembles and/or fits together parts to form subassemblies and/or complete units. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The duties and responsibilities listed below apply to all levels of Aircraft /Avionics Technicians.  Each level has additional duties and responsibilities listed. 

Aircraft / Avionics Technicians ALL:

• Performs a variety of tasks, which require knowledge of fabrication techniques, materials, tools and equipment.
• Follows Foreign Object Prevention (FOD) practices.
• Follows Electronic Static Discharge prevention (ESD) practices.
• Interprets and follows manufacturing orders.
• Operates shop related machinery to include torque wrench, pneumatic tools, common hand tools and scales.
• Supports and exhibits the focus of zero defects as well as “right-the-first-time” approach.
• Inspects finished products for conformance to specifications.
• May work from verbal instructions.
• Maintains a clean work area and ensures strict adherence to the 5S Standards.
• Fabricates, assembles, installs, repairs, modifies, tests, operates and troubleshoots avionics/electrical modules, components, and wire harnesses.
• Installs wires and electrical components into electrical assemblies per engineering drawings and specifications.
• Tests and performs fault isolation of components.
• Responsible for failure determination of electronics/avionic boxes.
• Tests aircraft instruments and systems, such as automatic flight controls, inertial navigation, and compass systems.
• Uses a variety of electrical measuring and diagnostic equipment.
• Will perform complete testing using manufacturing manuals, schematics and drawings.
• Presents innovative ideas to improve manufacturing process.
• Complied with established QMS procedures and Safety directives.
• Utilizes the Tool Accountability System (TAS) for proper tool control and hazardous material utilization.
• Must perform and/or assist all activities normally found in aerial target maintenance, including the use of hand and power tools, lifting heavy objects, and working with industrial chemicals and adhesives such as epoxy, grease, jet fuel, oils, and cleaners.
• May be required to work extended hours or weekends, as needed.
• Infrequent travel domestically for extended durations at times as assigned.
• Supports flight operations, maintenance and logistical support for unmanned aerial systems and related equipment.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Aircraft / Avionics Technician I:

• Works under close supervision.
• Demonstrates a basic understanding of aircraft drawings and schematics.
• Proficiently executes Foreign Object Prevention (FOD) practices.
• Performs basic safety wire installation.
• Performs basic wire soldering procedures.
• Performs basic Acceptance Test Procedures (ATP).
• Assists Aircraft Assemblers with installation of components during aircraft buildup, at Fuselage and Aircraft Assembly levels. 

Aircraft / Avionics Technician II:

• Works under limited supervision.
• Assembles aircraft parts and sub-assemblies.
• May work from engineering drawings, rough sketches and/or manuals.
• Rivets both solid and blind rivets.
• Installs safety wire.
• Installs electronic components.
• Perform electronic assembly soldering, crimping, splicing and harness fabrication, and control panel building.
• Consistently performs to established production standards
• Has basic understanding of Aircraft testing principles including preparation for and testing of avionics and propulsion systems
• Can perform basic troubleshooting of wire harnesses, coax cables, electrical systems
• Has basic understanding of RF principles including uses of transmitters, receivers and antennas 

Aircraft / Avionics Technician III:

• Works under minimal supervision.
• Ability to read and understand electronic schematics.
• Ability to use electronic testing equipment.
• Perform electronic assembly tasks including soldering.
• Prepares and installs wire harnesses and electronic assemblies.
• Assists in the troubleshooting of aircraft as needed.
• Demonstrates the ability to perform required repairs as directed by Engineering and Supervision.
• Ability to train less experienced assemblers in the proper assembly of aircraft.
• Follows Acceptance Test Procedure (ATP) practices.
• Performs electronic assembly soldering, crimping, splicing and harness fabrication, and control panel building.
• Consistently performs at or above established production standards.
• Has good understanding of Aircraft and Ground Support Equipment testing principles including preparation for and testing of avionics and propulsion systems.
• Perform troubleshooting of wire harnesses, coax cables, electrical systems.
• Understands the RF principles including uses of transmitters, receivers and antennas. 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

None.

Compensation:

$27.00 - $36.00 Hourly

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

 Required:

• Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information as required by government standards.
• Ability to interact effectively with peers and supervisors.
• Ability to interact appropriately with the public when necessary.
• Ability to adhere to workplace rules.
• Must have prior experience with avionics/aircraft maintenance.
• Strong decision-making abilities.
• Strong isolation & troubleshooting skills.
• Must be able to demonstrate accurate basic math skills.
• Must be able to read schematics and drawings.
• Demonstrates proficiency at electronic assembly, soldering, crimping, splicing, harness fabrication, and control panel building.
• Must be able to test & isolate failures to components.
• Must be able to install components.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

 Required:

The education and experience listed below apply to all levels of Aircraft / Avionics Technician.  Each successive level of Aircraft / Avionics Technician has additional proficiencies with the education and experience listed.

 Aircraft / Avionics Technician I

• Must have High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 2 years avionics/aircraft  maintenance experience.

 Aircraft / Avionics Technician II

• 4+ years of avionics/aircraft maintenance experience and all skills listed above.

 Aircraft / Avionics Technician III

• 6+ years of avionics/aircraft maintenance experience and all skills listed above

 Preferred:

• May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship). 

 WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Office, production/manufacturing and outside environment.
• Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time.
• Standing, walking, bending, reaching and working from slightly elevated surface on a regular.
• Must perform and/or assist all activities normally found in aerial target maintenance, including the use of hand and power tools, lifting heavy objects, and working with industrial chemicals and adhesives such as epoxy, grease, jet fuel, oils, and cleaners.
• Employee may generate, handle, manage, or work around hazardous materials and hazardous wastes.
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

 TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: 

None.