Description:
Job purpose
The Sheet Metal Technician is responsible for inspecting, fabricating, modifying, repairing, and installing sheet metal structures on rotary-wing aircraft in accordance with manufacturer specifications, engineering drawings, and aviation regulatory standards. This role is critical in ensuring airframe integrity, safety, and optimal performance.
Duties and Responsibilities
· Inspect and assess damage to sheet metal structures on helicopters.
· Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, engineering orders, and OEM manuals.
· Fabricate replacement parts and assemblies using metal forming techniques and equipment.
· Remove, repair, and reinstall aircraft skin panels, stringers, bulkheads, and other structural components.
· Perform drilling, riveting, bending, cutting, filing, deburring, and sealing tasks.
· Use precision tools and measurement devices to ensure accuracy and fit.
· Complete repairs in accordance with FAA regulations, OEM specs, and internal procedures.
· Document all repairs and modifications in maintenance logs and work orders.
· Work closely with engineering, maintenance, and inspection teams for signoffs and quality control.
Workplace Safety:
· Adhere to OSHA, FAA, and company-specific safety guidelines at all times.
· Utilize proper PPE including gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, and respiratory protection when required.
· Operate tools and equipment in accordance with safety protocols.
· Maintain clean, organized, and hazard-free areas.
· Report any safety concerns, accidents, or near misses immediately
SOP/KPIs:
· Follow all SOPs for structural repair, fabrication, and assembly tasks.
· Ensure all work complies with company and regulatory standards.
· Meet or exceed KPIs including:
o Work order completion rate
o Quality assurance pass rate
o Rework frequency
o Safety compliance metrics
Team Support:
· Collaborate effectively with maintenance technicians, engineers, and inspectors.
· Support project teams during helicopter refurbishment, modification, or heavy maintenance visits.
· Assist and mentor junior technicians or apprentices when needed.
· Communicate progress and potential issues clearly with supervisors and team leads.
· Maintain best practices and a positive working environment with all parties at the worksite.
· Coordinate with other departments to achieve outlined goals.
· Respond to communications (e-mails, meeting requests, Teams messages, etc.) set by team members in a timely and friendly manner.
· Learn SmartSheets project management software and take ownership of assigned projects. Aid in the evolution of usage of this platform by spearheading best practices adoption.
Requirements:
Qualifications:
- Experience: 3+ years of experience in aircraft sheet metal work, preferably on helicopters or rotary-wing aircraft.
- Certifications: Completion of an FAA-approved Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) school or equivalent training preferred.
- Legal: Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
Required Behaviors:
· High attention to detail with a strong commitment to precision and quality.
· Professional, dependable, and safety conscious.
· Strong work ethic and willingness to adapt to changing priorities.
· Accountability and pride in workmanship.
Hard Skills & Education:
- Education: High school diploma or GED required, A&P License preferred.
- Technical Skills:
o Skilled in using hand tools, power tools, and specialized aviation sheet metal equipment.
o Proficient in riveting, countersinking, drilling, dimpling, and forming sheet metal.
o Ability to read and interpret complex technical documents and engineering instructions.
o Understanding of aircraft structures and material types including aluminum alloys and composite interfaces.
Specific Soft Skills (examples):
· Effective communication skills and teamwork mentality.
· Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
· Ability to manage time efficiently and work under tight deadlines.
· Commitment to continuous learning and improvement
Working conditions
· Indoor hangar environment with occasional outdoor work depending on project needs.
· Exposure to noise, vibration, sharp tools, and metal particles—PPE required.
· May be required to work overtime, weekends, or night shifts as project demands dictate.
· Must pass drug screening, background checks, and regulatory compliance requirements
Essential Job Functions
· Structural inspection, repair, and modification of helicopter sheet metal components.
· Reading and applying information from blueprints, drawings, and technical manuals.
· Operating sheet metal tools and equipment.
· Recording work performed for regulatory and internal documentation.
· Ensuring airworthiness and structural integrity of aircraft components
Physical requirements
· Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
· Frequent standing, climbing, bending, kneeling, and working in confined or elevated spaces.
· Good manual dexterity, vision, and hand-eye coordination.
· Capable of wearing safety gear for extended periods
Direct reports
None