Aircraft Structures and Surfaces Assembler
Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems AssemblersDescription
Assemble, fit, fasten, and install aircraft structural and exterior surface components—wings, fuselage, empennage, bulkheads, skins, panels, and related fittings—by drilling, riveting, bonding, and sealing to meet engineering specifications and quality standards.
- • Assemble prefabricated structural parts to form airframe subassemblies.
- • Position and align subassemblies in jigs or fixtures using measuring instruments and blueprint index points.
- • Align, fit, and install structural components and skins with jigs, fixtures, hand tools, and power tools.
- • Join structural assemblies such as wings, fuselage, and empennage.
- • Lay out and mark reference points and locations using jigs, templates, and measuring and marking tools.
- • Attach brackets, hinges, clips, and fittings with bolts, screws, rivets, and approved bonding agents.
- • Drill, ream, countersink, and dimple holes; install solid and blind rivets per specifications.
- • Trim, file, bend, and smooth parts to ensure proper fit and clearance.
- • Apply sealants, primers, and corrosion-protection coatings to parts and seams.
- • Fit and fasten sheet-metal or composite coverings to surface areas prior to final fastening.
- • Inspect assembled structures and skins for fit, alignment, defects, and compliance using gauges and test equipment.
- • Fabricate simple detail parts and shims using shop machinery and equipment.
- • Verify dimensions and tolerances of parts and assemblies with precision measuring instruments.
- • Mark part numbers and identification on components and assemblies per procedures.
- • Manually install structural assemblies or direct crane or hoist operators to position assemblies for joining.
- • Read and interpret blueprints, work instructions, and specifications to determine layouts and sequences.
- • Adjust, repair, rework, or replace parts or assemblies to correct fit or quality issues.
- • Clean aircraft structures, parts, and components using approved cleaning products and techniques.
- • Set up and operate equipment to cut, form, flange, bead, and deburr sheet-metal parts.
- • Bond and fasten composite parts and honeycomb panels following cure and handling requirements.
- • Assemble parts, fittings, and subassemblies on aircraft using layout tools, hand tools, power tools, and approved fasteners.
- • Torque structural fasteners to specification and verify with calibrated tools.
- • Prepare and mask surfaces for bonding, sealing, or finishing per process specifications.
- • Follow FOD prevention and tool-control procedures in work areas.
- • Capture and segregate scrap, fluids, and solvents for recycling or proper disposal.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
