Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assembler

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  Career Profile

Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assembler

What they do

Assemble, fit, fasten, and install parts of airplanes, space vehicles, or missiles, such as tails, wings, fuselage, bulkheads, stabilizers, landing gear, rigging and control equipment, or heating and ventilating systems.

Also Called: A&P Technician (Airframe and Powerplant Technician), Aircraft Line Assembler, Assembler, Assembly Riveter, Helicopter Technician, Sheet Metal Assembler and Riveter (SMAR), Sheet Metal Mechanic, Structures Mechanic, Structures Technician, A&P Technician (Airframe and Powerplant Technician), Aircraft Line Assembler, Assembler, Assembly Riveter, Helicopter Technician, Sheet Metal Assembler and Riveter (SMAR), Sheet Metal Mechanic, Structures Mechanic, Structures Technician

$39,550
Starting Salary (2023)
$61,240
Median Salary (2023)
-15.2%
Projected Job Growth
29,810
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Read blueprints, illustrations, or specifications to determine layouts, sequences of operations, or identities or relationships of parts.
Cut, trim, file, bend, or smooth parts to ensure proper fit and clearance.
Clean, oil, or coat system components, as necessary, before assembly or attachment.
Adjust, repair, rework, or replace parts or assemblies to ensure proper operation.
Assemble prefabricated parts to form subassemblies.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Integrity
Dependability
Cooperation
Initiative
Adaptability/Flexibility

What key skills are needed for this job?

Quality Control Analysis
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Speaking
Complex Problem Solving

Expected Knowledge

Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Common Activities

Controlling Machines and Processes
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

More Info

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