Aerospace Sheet Metal Mechanic
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Employment Type: Full-Time
Industry: Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing
Position Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled Aerospace Sheet Metal Mechanic/ Manual Machinist to support the fabrication, forming, and assembly of precision aerospace components and assemblies.
This role requires deep hands-on experience working to controlled drawings and specifications, maintaining tight tolerances, and operating within a regulated AS9100 aerospace manufacturing environment.
The ideal candidate is technically strong, detail-driven, and comfortable working independently on complex, low-volume, high-mix aerospace hardware where quality, repeatability, and compliance are critical.
Key Responsibilities
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Fabricate, form, trim, and assemble aerospace sheet metal components per engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions
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Perform layout, bend allowance calculations, and material development for complex formed parts
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Operate and set up sheet metal equipment including press brakes, shears, rollers, saws, drill presses, and forming tools
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Perform precision drilling/milling, countersinking, reaming, deburring, and edge finishing to aerospace standards
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Interpret and work from 2D drawings, MBD data, GD&T callouts, and controlled travelers
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Install and inspect hardware such as rivets, nutplates, inserts, bushings, and fasteners per spec
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Fit and assemble multi-part weldments or mechanical assemblies, maintaining dimensional integrity
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Work with stainless steel, aluminum, Inconel, titanium, and other aerospace alloys
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Support welding and post-weld operations (fit-up, prep, distortion control, finishing) as required
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Perform in-process inspections and final verification using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and other precision measuring tools
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Maintain full compliance with AS9100, customer flow-downs, and internal quality requirements
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Accurately document work, inspections, and any nonconformances
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Support continuous improvement efforts related to quality, efficiency, and manufacturability
Required Qualifications
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5+ years of hands-on experience as an aerospace sheet metal mechanic (A&D environment required)
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Proven experience working to tight tolerances and controlled aerospace drawings
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Strong understanding of GD&T, form tolerances, bend radii, and material behavior
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Experience with stainless steel and high-temperature alloys preferred
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Ability to independently set up and operate sheet metal fabrication equipment
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Strong knowledge of aerospace hardware installation standards
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Comfortable working under AS9100 quality systems and customer audits
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Ability to read, understand, and follow complex work instructions and travelers
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Strong attention to detail and commitment to first-time quality
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience supporting aerospace weldments and weld prep
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Familiarity with AWS D17.1 / D1.6 environments (hands-on welding not required)
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Experience with low-volume, high-mix, build-to-print aerospace work
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Ability to assist engineering with manufacturability feedback
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Prior experience with Honeywell, Boeing, Airbus, or similar aerospace primes
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Formal sheet metal apprenticeship or technical training
Physical Requirements
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Ability to stand for extended periods
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Ability to work with sharp edges, hand tools, and industrial equipment safely
Pay
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Competitive Wage guaranteed depending on experience.
