Aerospace Finishing Technician - Entry Level (Paid Training)

Pridestaff - San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Pridestaff - San Diego is seeking an entry-level Finishing Operator to join our production team in Poway, CA. Finishing is the final hands-on production step, preparing surfaces for paint and final delivery with emphasis on edge quality and cosmetic finish.

Paid training is provided as you build a career in aerospace and defense composite manufacturing; prior manufacturing experience is welcome but not required.

Qualifications

• 0–6+ months of experience in sanding, deburring, trade work, or general manufacturing (entry-level candidates welcome).
• Ability to follow basic work instructions and safety protocols.
• Comfort using hand tools and power sanding equipment (belt sanders, orbital sanders, pneumatic grinders).
• Attention to cosmetic detail and surface quality.
• Ability to wear a respirator and full required PPE in a shop environment.
• Physical ability to stand for full shifts and lift up to 40 lbs.
• Bilingual skills (English / Spanish).

Responsibilities

• Sand, trim, and deburr composite components using work instructions to remove flash, smooth edges, and break sharp corners.
• Perform edge finishing on machined panels and structural assemblies using hand tools, belt sanders, and pneumatic tools.
• Clean, degrease, and prepare part surfaces for paint or final delivery.
• Fill minor surface voids and pinholes using approved filler materials following standard shop procedures.
• Apply masking tape and protective coverings to areas that must not be sanded or painted.
• Conduct visual self-checks for cosmetic defects (such as scratches, fiber breakout, or uneven edges) before passing parts to Quality Control.

Skills

Deburring experience

Attention to cosmetic detail

Follow safety protocols

Tools

Hand tools

Belt sanders

Orbital sanders

Pneumatic tools

Job description

Pridestaff - San Diego is seeking an entry-level Finishing Operator to join our production team in Poway, CA. Finishing is the final hands-on production step, preparing surfaces for paint and final delivery with emphasis on edge quality and cosmetic finish.

Paid training is provided as you build a career in aerospace and defense composite manufacturing; prior manufacturing experience is welcome but not required.