Purpose

The Sheet Metal Tech – Level 3 is a subject matter expert responsible for advanced structural fabrication, modification, repair, and installation on large cabin aircraft. This role leads complex sheet metal work scopes, ensures structural integrity and compliance with FAA and OEM standards, and provides technical guidance to junior technicians. The technician plays a critical role in aircraft completions, modifications, and return-to-service activities, ensuring the highest levels of quality, precision, and safety.

Essential Job Functions

• Perform advanced fabrication, assembly, and installation of sheet metal structures and components on large cabin aircraft.
• Interpret complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and structural repair manuals to execute work accurately.
• Perform structural repairs, modifications, and alterations in accordance with FAA regulations and OEM specifications.
• Layout, drill, cut, form, and fit metal components using precision tools and equipment.
• Conduct structural inspections and evaluate damage to determine appropriate repair methods.
• Perform installation of structural components including panels, frames, brackets, skins, and support structures.
• Ensure proper alignment, fit, and finish of all installed components.
• Lead complex repair and modification tasks independently with minimal supervision.
• Support aircraft modification programs, STC installations, and completions activities.
• Provide technical mentorship and guidance to Sheet Metal Technician I and II personnel.
• Coordinate with engineering, quality, and production teams to resolve technical issues and discrepancies.
• Maintain accurate documentation of all work performed in compliance with FAA and company procedures.
• Ensure adherence to tool control, FOD prevention, and safety standards.
• Support final inspections and aircraft return-to-service processes.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and quality.

Minimum Qualifications or Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 8+ years of experience in aircraft sheet metal, structures, or fabrication.
• Strong experience working on large cabin aircraft structures.
• Advanced knowledge of aircraft structural repair and fabrication techniques.
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and technical documentation.
• Proven ability to perform complex structural repairs independently.

Preferred Qualifications or Experience

• FAA Airframe license preferred.
• Experience with large cabin aircraft platforms (Gulfstream, Boeing, Airbus).
• Experience in aircraft completions, MRO, or modification environments.
• Familiarity with FAA Part 145 repair station requirements.
• Experience supporting STC installations and structural modifications.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Provides technical leadership and mentorship to junior technicians.
• May lead small teams or work scopes but does not have formal direct supervisory responsibility.

Knowledge, Skills, and Other Attributes

• Subject matter expertise in aircraft sheet metal and structural systems.
• Advanced fabrication, fitting, and assembly skills.
• Strong attention to detail and precision workmanship.
• Ability to diagnose structural issues and determine effective repair solutions.
• Strong understanding of aviation safety and compliance standards.
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently and lead complex technical tasks.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Travel

Travel may be required to support off-site maintenance, aircraft recovery, or customer support activities.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required for this position. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice to support business needs.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in aircraft hangars and maintenance environments.
• Requires standing, bending, climbing, and working in confined aircraft spaces.
• Exposure to tools, machinery, noise, and varying temperatures.
• Ability to lift tools and materials up to 50 pounds.
• Must follow OSHA safety standards and company policies, including use of required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• May require overtime or flexible hours to support maintenance schedules and aircraft delivery timelines.