Kform is a next-generation defense manufacturer that engineers and manufactures mission systems for defense technology companies, established corporations, and government customers. We help teams move advanced technology from concept and prototype through production by integrating engineering, machining, fabrication, electronics assembly, system integration, testing, and supply-chain support.
We build real hardware for demanding applications. Our work requires craftsmanship, attention to detail, disciplined documentation, and a commitment to delivering reliable products to the people who depend on them.
Kform is seeking an Assembly Technician to build, integrate, inspect, and test mechanical and electromechanical products used in defense and mission-critical applications.
The Assembly Technician will work from engineering drawings, bills of material, work instructions, and production travelers to assemble products accurately and consistently. This person will use hand tools, torque tools, measuring equipment, adhesives, hardware, wiring, and other manufacturing processes to complete prototype and production builds.
This is a hands-on position for someone who takes pride in building high-quality hardware, follows defined processes, and can adapt to the changing requirements of a high-mix manufacturing environment.
Assemble mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical products according to drawings, work instructions, bills of material, and quality requirements.
Install fasteners, inserts, brackets, panels, seals, connectors, wiring, cable assemblies, electronic components, and other product hardware.
Use hand tools, power tools, torque tools, crimpers, measuring instruments, and basic electrical test equipment safely and correctly.
Perform cable routing, connector installation, labeling, hardware installation, enclosure assembly, and final system integration.
Apply adhesives, thread-locking compounds, sealants, thermal interface materials, and other controlled materials according to process instructions.
Complete in-process inspections and verify workmanship, dimensions, hardware, configuration, and product completeness.
Perform basic continuity, functional, and operational tests using approved procedures and equipment.
Accurately record labor, materials, serial numbers, test results, inspection results, and other required production information.
Maintain product identification, configuration control, traceability, and separation of conforming and nonconforming material.
Identify drawing, material, fit, process, and workmanship issues and communicate them promptly to engineering, quality, or production leadership.
Support prototype builds and provide practical feedback that improves assembly methods, work instructions, fixtures, and product manufacturability.
Assist with rework, repair, inspection, packaging, kitting, and shipping preparation as required.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation using good housekeeping and 5S practices.
Follow Kform’s quality, safety, cybersecurity, export-control, and controlled-information procedures.
Protect customer information, technical data, materials, and hardware.
Support other manufacturing and production activities as business needs require.
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent practical experience.
At least one year of experience in mechanical assembly, electronics assembly, manufacturing, maintenance, automotive repair, aviation, field service, or a related hands-on technical environment.
Ability to read and follow assembly drawings, diagrams, bills of material, work instructions, and written procedures.
Experience using common hand tools and measuring equipment.
Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.
Ability to identify hardware, components, materials, and basic workmanship defects.
Ability to follow controlled processes and document completed work accurately.
Basic computer skills, including the ability to access digital work instructions and enter production information.
Ability to communicate clearly with technicians, engineers, quality personnel, and production leadership.
Ability to work independently after training while contributing effectively as part of a team.
Reliable attendance and the ability to work on-site in Sterling, Virginia.
Ability to meet eligibility requirements for work involving export-controlled products, technical information, or customer programs, as applicable.
Two or more years of experience assembling defense, aerospace, industrial, telecommunications, computing, robotics, or ruggedized electronic products.
Experience with low-volume, high-mix manufacturing or new-product introduction.
Experience assembling sheet-metal enclosures, machined components, electronic systems, cable harnesses, control panels, or ruggedized equipment.
Experience with crimping, soldering, cable fabrication, wire preparation, or connector assembly.
Experience using torque-controlled tools, calipers, multimeters, continuity testers, and inspection equipment.
Familiarity with IPC-A-610, IPC/WHMA-A-620, J-STD-001, ESD controls, or comparable workmanship standards.
Experience working within an ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality-management system.
Experience completing production travelers, inspection records, nonconformance reports, or electronic manufacturing records.
Technical school, military technical training, apprenticeship, manufacturing certification, or related vocational education.
A successful Assembly Technician at Kform:
Produces accurate, clean, and reliable work.
Builds products correctly without skipping process or documentation requirements.
Raises problems early rather than passing defects to the next operation.
Learns new products and assembly processes quickly.
Maintains control of parts, tools, materials, and technical information.
Works collaboratively with engineering and quality teams to improve how products are built.
Understands that workmanship, traceability, and schedule performance directly affect the customer’s mission.
This position is based in a manufacturing environment. The employee may be required to:
Stand or sit at an assembly workstation for extended periods.
Frequently use hands and fingers to handle small components, tools, fasteners, and wiring.
Bend, reach, kneel, and move between production work areas.
Safely lift and move items weighing up to [40] pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Wear required personal protective equipment.
Work around machinery, fabrication operations, electronic equipment, adhesives, and other production materials.
Work occasional overtime when required to support customer or production schedules.
Kform offers competitive compensation based on experience and demonstrated capability.
Benefits include:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Paid time off and company holidays
401k Retirement plan
Training and professional-development opportunities
Opportunities to work across prototype development, production, and advanced defense manufacturing
Final compensation and benefit details will be provided during the hiring process.
Kform is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, performance, and business needs. Kform does not discriminate on the basis of any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process.
