Aircraft Machinist

Citadel Aviation; Lake Charles (LA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Citadel Aviation, LLC seeks an Aircraft Machinist to set up and operate conventional and CNC machines for aircraft parts manufacturing and repair. You will work under supervision, ensuring on-time, airworthy re-delivery of aircraft.

The role requires 3–5 years of aerospace machining experience, proficiency with lathe, mill, grinder, and CNC milling, and ability to read drawings and GD&T. Strong safety and documentation practices are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 3–5 years aerospace machinist experience including hands-on CNC aviation machining.
• Able to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T.
• Able to read and interpret English work instructions and communicate clearly in English.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate metal-removing machines to machine parts per specification, including CNC milling and grinding.
• Assemble, repair, and fabricate metal parts and sub-units; measure and lay out stock.
• Perform preventive maintenance on machinery and follow RSQM, FARs, and applicable data; ensure proper tagging and documentation.
• Maintain safe, orderly shop environment and communicate progress with supervisor.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Teamwork

Decision making

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Lathe

Milling machine

Grinder

CNC milling machines

Job description

Purpose

The Aircraft Machinist sets up and operates conventional machines, computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines, and related equipment in the manufacture, rework, and repair of aircraft parts and components in accordance with approved or acceptable data.

This position works under the direct supervision of certificated personnel and does not exercise return-to-service authority. It reports to the Aircraft Operations Manager and supports the on-time, airworthy re-delivery of aircraft.

Responsibilities

Machining & Fabrication

• Assemble, repair, and fabricate metal parts by operating mechanical equipment; assemble parts into sub-units or complete units.
• Measure, mark, and scribe dimensions and reference points to lay out stock for machining; assist in determining dimensions and tolerances.
• Set up and operate metal-removing machines (lathe, milling machine, grinder) to machine parts to specification; may operate CNC milling machines, cylindrical and surface grinders, drills, and saws.
• Use precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, gauges) to adhere to specifications, dimensions, and alignment.

Compliance & Equipment Care

• Perform required preventive maintenance on machinery and equipment operated; perform work in lower classifications when assigned and assist in higher classifications.
• Become familiar with and follow the RSQM, FARs, Airworthiness Directives, advisory circulars, and manufacturer service bulletins. Never begin any maintenance unless in possession of the proper, current, and applicable approved or acceptable data.
• Perform proper tagging of components, parts, and panels and ensure they are appropriately stored; perform documentation and sign-offs in accordance with the RSQM and respective task requirements.

Shop & Communication

• Ensure tools, GSE, and ground equipment are correctly used, handled, and returned to storage; maintain a safe, orderly, compliant work area.
• Maintain close communication with the Aircraft Operations Manager on progress and roadblocks; deal with customers professionally; support on-time re-delivery of airworthy aircraft; take part in required training; and perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• 3–5 years of documented experience in the aerospace and/or machinist trade, including hands‑on CNC aviation machining.
• Demonstrated proficiency with conventional and CNC machine tools (lathe, mill, grinder) and precision measuring instruments.
• Able to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Ability to read and interpret work instructions, standard operating procedures, and safety documentation written in English, and to communicate clearly in English with coworkers and supervisors as required to perform the essential functions of the position.
• Holds a current, valid driver’s license, where required to perform the essential functions of the position.
• Authorized to work in the United States and able to pass a background check and pre‑employment and applicable DOT/FAA drug‑and‑alcohol screening, including periodic random testing (safety‑sensitive position).

Preferred

• FAA Mechanic Certificate with an Airframe rating (preferred, not required).
• MRO facility maintenance experience.
• 5+ years of aerospace/CNC machining experience.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed primarily in the hangar and shop, with occasional work on the aircraft parking ramp; primarily indoors during the day and occasionally at night, with some ramp exposure.
• Occasional exposure to airborne dust. Work surface is stable (flat); may require climbing ladders and using lifts.
• Considered MEDIUM work with frequent lifting up to 20 lbs and occasional lifting up to 50 lbs.
• There is no travel expected in this role.
• May require flexible shifts, overtime, weekends, or holidays based on project demand.

Knowledge, Skills, and Other Attributes

• Uses knowledge of commonly‑used concepts, practices, and procedures in machine‑shop operation and equipment.
• Able to read, interpret, and apply FAA approved or accepted data (IPC, M/M, OHM, SRM) proficiently.
• Able to perform intermediate, major, and heavy machining tasks with minimal supervision.
• Proven ability to work alone and in a team; effective decision‑making.
• Dependable, motivated, organized, and detail‑oriented; completes work accurately and on time.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Citadel Aviation, LLC. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.