Job Title: Structures Mechanic

Job Description

The Structures Mechanic maintains, repairs, and modifies aircraft structures to the highest aviation standards across a diverse fleet that includes C-130, CH-47, 737, Citation, and S-61 aircraft. This role focuses on heavy structural maintenance and modifications, ensuring airworthiness, safety, and reliability in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural maintenance, heavy repairs, and modifications on various aircraft in full compliance with applicable aviation standards and procedures.
• Read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, structural repair manuals, and process sheets to plan and execute work accurately.
• Assemble, install, and secure structural components using appropriate structural fasteners, tools, and approved methods.
• Diagnose structural issues and determine appropriate repair actions using structural repair manuals and engineering data.
• Treat and prevent corrosion on aircraft structures, apply sealants, and ensure all protective coatings meet required standards.
• Maintain, calibrate, and properly use measuring tools, hand tools, and shop equipment to achieve precise and reliable results.
• Document work performed with accurate, detailed records in accordance with company and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, following all safety protocols and best practices.
• Work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating adaptability, strong work ethic, and a focus on quality.
• Collaborate effectively with other technicians and departments while also being able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Travel as needed within the United States and internationally to support maintenance and modification operations at various sites.

Essential Skills

• At least 8 years of experience in structural heavy maintenance and modification on aircraft.
• Proven experience with sheet metal work, aircraft structures, riveting, and heavy maintenance tasks.
• Strong ability to read and interpret technical drawings, repair manuals, and industry standards.
• Excellent hand skills with a high level of precision and attention to detail in structural work.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to document work and coordinate with team members.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
• Comfort working at heights and in confined spaces as required by aircraft maintenance tasks.
• Demonstrated reliability, punctuality, and a strong safety focus in all work activities.
• Possession of basic personal tools suitable for aircraft structural work, with specialty tools provided.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with depot-level maintenance on aircraft such as C-130s or CH-47 is highly relevant, particularly for those with prior military backgrounds.
• Completion of an approved aviation maintenance or structural training course (including ICS or equivalent programs).
• A valid Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license is preferred.
• aircraft manufacturing is not aligned with this role, which focuses on heavy maintenance and modification.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing priorities and travel requirements to support multiple locations.

Why Work Here?

This opportunity offers the chance to contribute directly to critical aviation operations while working with a world-class fleet of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. Skilled professionals who perform well can extend their engagement beyond the initial contract and build longer-term stability. The organization values safety, craftsmanship, and teamwork, providing a supportive environment for experienced technicians to apply and grow their expertise. Exposure to diverse aircraft types and international operations creates a dynamic, engaging career experience with meaningful impact.

Work Environment

The role is primarily based in Thermal, California, with an initial assignment in Van Nuys and the potential for travel to additional domestic and international locations. Work is performed in active hangar and shop environments supporting a global aerial firefighting fleet of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. The setting is fast-paced and mission-focused, with periods of high activity aligned to operational needs. Technicians use a wide range of hand tools, structural fasteners, measuring devices, and shop equipment, with specialty tools provided. Tasks often require working at heights, on stands or platforms, and in confined spaces within aircraft structures. The environment emphasizes strict adherence to safety procedures, tool control, and cleanliness, with an expectation of professional appearance and practical, safety-appropriate attire suitable for an aircraft maintenance facility.

This is a Contract position based out of Van Nuys, CA 91406.

The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $55.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Van Nuys,CA 91406.

This position is anticipated to close on May 4, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.