Position Overview
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people’s lives around the world today and for generations to come. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage, and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future and have fun along the way.
Location & Relocation
Location: Dayton, OH
Relocation assistance may be available.
Security & Clearance
Clearance required for start: Secret
Clearance type: Secret
Security clearance can be obtained and maintained.
Position
Aircraft Structures Mechanic Level 2 or 3 – Operations team working on assembly structures, laminates, and composite bonding processes.
Responsibilities
- Fabricate composite components and/or tools, including tool prep, ply kit generation, lamination, vacuum bagging, de‑molding, composite trimming, finishing, core fabrication, and composite bonding processes.
- Perform part‑fitting operations such as filing, burring, crimping, trimming, grommet installation, drilling, countersinking, and reaming.
- Align parts on jigs using templates and fixtures; measure parts with micrometers and calipers to verify dimensions.
- Modify incomplete and complete assemblies to incorporate engineering changes to structure.
- Monitor and verify quality in accordance with statistical process or other control procedures.
- Troubleshoot and solve unique problems through collaboration with engineers and other technicians.
- Operate autoclave and curing ovens to complete bonding cycles.
- Use appropriate PPE when working on the shop floor.
- Recommend and implement continuous improvement activities in production methods, equipment performance, and team effectiveness.
Qualifications – Level 2
- High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) with at least 2 years of relatable aircraft experience in manufacturing/production.
- Perform moderate strenuous physical and repetitive work including lifting over 25 pounds, working with chemicals, overhead work, climbing ladders, prolonged kneeling, bending, or stooping, carrying tools, and wearing a respirator.
- Ability to obtain and maintain DoD Secret Security Clearance and special program access.
- Read and interpret schematics, assembly drawings, process specifications, technical manuals, written instructions, and test procedures.
- Work flexible, changing shifts, including weekends.
Qualifications – Level 3
- High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) with at least 4 years of relatable aircraft experience in manufacturing/production.
- Perform moderate strenuous physical and repetitive work including lifting over 25 pounds, working with chemicals, overhead work, climbing ladders, prolonged kneeling, bending, or stooping, carrying tools, and wearing a respirator.
- Ability to obtain and maintain DoD Secret Security Clearance and special program access.
- Read and interpret schematics, assembly drawings, process specifications, technical manuals, written instructions, and test procedures.
- Work flexible, changing shifts, including weekends.
Preferred Qualifications (Both Levels)
- Active DoD Secret Clearance with a background investigation completed within the last six years and the ability to obtain program access.
- A&P License.
- Experience with composite manufacturing, aircraft fabrication, assemblies, components, and systems in an aerospace, automotive, military, manufacturing, and/or maintenance environment.
- Experience with high‑temperature composite materials including polyimide.
- Experience with structural subassemblies, including bonding, co‑bonding, core bonding, and bagging.
- Demonstrated ability using standard measuring equipment and power hand tools.
- Read and understand blueprints, technical specifications, and operating procedures.
Salary
Primary Level: $22.45 – $37.45 per hour.
Secondary Level: $26.68 – $44.47 per hour.
Salary decisions are based on scope and responsibilities, candidate experience, education, skills, and market conditions. Overtime, shift differential, discretionary bonuses, and long‑term incentives may also be applicable.
Benefits
- Health insurance coverage.
- Life and disability insurance.
- Savings plan.
- Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and personal business.
- Other company benefits.
EEO Statement
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO.
Eligibility
U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain restricted positions.