Position Summary
Research Metal Industries (RMI) is seeking motivated and career-oriented recent graduates to join our Aerospace Manufacturing Trainee Program. This program is designed to develop future manufacturing professionals by providing hands-on training and exposure to all major aerospace manufacturing processes within our facility.
Trainees will participate in a structured rotational program, gaining practical experience in multiple departments including machining, deburring, welding, quality, shipping, and production support. Throughout the program, trainees’ performance, strengths, technical abilities, adaptability, and interests will be evaluated to identify their areas of aptitude and determine the most appropriate long-term placement within the manufacturing operation.
Successful candidates must be team players, adaptable, eager to learn, and able to thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Participate in a structured rotational training program across multiple manufacturing departments.
- Learn and perform manufacturing processes under the guidance of experienced team members and supervisors.
- Assist with CNC machining setup and operation.
- Perform deburring, finishing, cleaning, and material handling activities.
- Support welding, fabrication, and assembly operations as assigned.
- Assist the Quality Department with inspections, documentation, and product verification activities.
- Learn to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, work instructions, and specifications.
- Become familiar with aerospace quality standards, customer requirements, and manufacturing best practices.
- Support shipping, receiving, inventory, and material traceability processes.
- Utilize ERP and manufacturing systems to record production activities and maintain accurate documentation.
- Follow all company safety policies, PPE requirements, and environmental procedures.
- Participate in continuous improvement and cross-functional initiatives.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with company standards and 5S principles.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Industrial Technology, Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Recent graduate or up to two (2) years of related experience.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in manufacturing operations.
- Ability to read and interpret technical documents and engineering drawings.
- Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
- Highly adaptable and able to learn new processes and responsibilities quickly.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while maintaining attention to detail and quality standards.
- Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to support multiple departments as business needs require.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous internship, vocational or hands-on manufacturing experience.
- Familiarity with CNC machining, CAD software, inspection equipment, or manufacturing processes.
- Exposure to aerospace manufacturing or metal fabrication environments.
- Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
- Ability to lift up to 40 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Ability to frequently bend, reach, stoop, and perform repetitive motions.
- Ability to safely work around machinery and manufacturing equipment while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
Career Development Opportunities
The Aerospace Manufacturing Trainee Program is intended to prepare employees for advancement into positions such as:
- CNC Machinist
- Quality Inspector
- Shipping and Receiving
- Sheet Metal and Assembly
- Tool and Die
- Welding and Fabrication
RMI is committed to developing talent from within and providing employees with opportunities for long-term growth and career advancement.
Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Why are you interested in a career in aerospace manufacturing?
- Are you willing to rotate through multiple departments as part of a structured training program?
- This position requires working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with changing priorities. Are you comfortable adapting to new assignments and responsibilities?
- Safety and quality are critical in aerospace manufacturing. Why are these important to you?
Ability to Commute:
- Gardena, CA 90249 (Required)
Work Location: In person
