Description
Precisely assemble, fit, and install high-tolerance aerospace subassemblies and mechanisms—such as actuators, linkages, control cables, and hydraulic/pneumatic or avionics-mechanical modules—for aircraft, spacecraft, or missiles, using jigs, fixtures, and metrology; verify alignment, function, and compliance to specifications.
- • Assemble prefabricated precision parts into high-tolerance subassemblies.
- • Position and align subassemblies in jigs or fixtures using micrometers, height gauges, optical aids, and blueprint datums.
- • Align, fit, and install components with calibrated hand and power tools, torque drivers, and adhesives per specifications.
- • Join precision structural or mechanism assemblies such as actuator housings and control linkages.
- • Lay out and mark reference points using templates and precision measuring and marking tools.
- • Attach brackets, hinges, clips, and hardware with bolts, screws, rivets, adhesive bonding, or micro-welding.
- • Inspect and test assemblies for fit, alignment, backlash, torque, leakage, electrical continuity, and compliance using gauges and test equipment.
- • Fit and fasten covers, shields, and precision panels prior to final fastening or sealing.
- • Clean, lubricate, or coat components and fasteners per process to control FOD and corrosion.
- • Set, align, and synchronize rigging, linkages, or control components to tolerance using sighting devices, gauges, and hand tools.
- • Fabricate or modify small parts for assembly using bench machines or tooling.
- • Set up and operate equipment to crimp, cut, bend, form, swage, flare, bead, deburr, or straighten small-diameter tubing to specification.
- • Braze, weld, or solder fittings, tubing, or cable ends using precision equipment and controlled heat.
- • Verify dimensions and fitting positions of cable or tube assemblies with calipers, micrometers, pin gauges, or go/no-go gauges.
- • Apply identification and traceability to parts and assemblies using labels, etching, or laser marking per configuration control.
- • Cut and prepare cables and tubing with templates, measuring tools, and dedicated cutters or saws, ensuring burr-free ends.
- • Assemble engineering prototypes or technology demonstrators and provide build feedback.
- • Segregate and recycle waste materials and manage FOD, fluids, and solvents per environmental and safety procedures.
- • Clean parts and assemblies using approved aqueous, semi-aqueous, or solvent processes, including ultrasonic cleaning when required.
- • Assemble parts, fittings, and subassemblies at the bench or in cells using layout tools, hand tools, power tools, and precision fasteners.
- • Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, wiring diagrams, work instructions, and specifications to determine sequences and part relationships.
- • Adjust, rework, or replace parts and assemblies to resolve nonconformances and meet functional requirements.
- • Deburr, trim, file, lap, or polish parts to achieve proper fit and clearance.
- • Handle and install delicate assemblies using ESD and clean handling practices; coordinate positioning with material handling equipment when needed.
- • Route, place, and connect control cables, harnesses, or fluid lines to units using ring locks, cotter pins, threaded connectors, and turnbuckles.
- • Install mechanical linkages and actuators; set and verify cable tension with tensiometers and adjust end-play per specifications.
- • Set up and maintain dies and accessories in crimping or swaging machines; perform sample and pull tests to validate setups.
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
