Drive & Rotor Technician

Columbia Helicopters; Aurora (OR); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Retirement plans with company contributions

Paid time off

Job summary

Columbia Helicopters in Aurora, Oregon, is seeking a Drive & Rotor Technician to perform overhaul, repair, and inspection of transmission components. This hands-on position is ideal for experienced technicians or military candidates.

The role requires mechanical expertise, strong technical skills, and the ability to maintain quality standards while ensuring safety in a Transmission Shop environment. Benefits include comprehensive health coverage and paid time off.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3+ years of mechanical experience.
• Documented military or commercial experience with transmission assemblies preferred.
• Experience in a production or shop environment using Lean methods is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Read and interpret maintenance manuals and technical data.
• Perform cleaning, inspection, and evaluation of transmission components.
• Accurately document inspection results and maintenance actions.

Skills

Mechanical experience

Ability to read technical manuals

Proficiency with precision measuring tools

Strong communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Additional technical training or education

Tools

Precision measuring tools

Pneumatic tools

Job description

For over 65 years, Columbia Helicopters has been a trusted provider of heavy-lift helicopter services. We create new aircraft, fly heavy-lift helicopters around the world, and provide maintenance support to ensure you are mission-ready for critical operations. If you are passionate about aviation, join our ColumbiaFamily!

The Drive & Rotor Technician will perform overhaul, repair, inspection, and testing of transmission and drive system components within the Transmission Shop. This role is specifically focused on hands‑on work with transmissions and related assemblies in a shop environment.

We welcome experienced technicians as well as candidates transitioning from military service. This position is ideal for A&P graduates and individuals with military aviation maintenance experience. Transmission overhaul experience is strongly preferred.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Read and interpret maintenance manuals and technical data to determine appropriate methods for completing assigned tasks
• Perform cleaning, inspection, and evaluation of transmission and drive components using visual inspection techniques, precision measuring tools, and specialized equipment
• Repair or replace worn or damaged components using hand tools, pneumatic tools, and precision instruments; reassemble components to required specifications
• Perform functional tests and serviceability checks on transmission assemblies and parts using specialized tooling and equipment
• Accurately document inspection results, maintenance actions, and corrective measures in accordance with company and regulatory standards
• Maintain a clean, organized work area and practice proper tool control and Foreign Object Debris (FOD) prevention
• Perform all work safely and in compliance with approved technical data and procedures
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by applying Lean principles to improve quality, reduce waste, and increase efficiency

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional technical training or education preferred
• Minimum of 3+ years of mechanical experience with strong aptitude for learning new technical skills
• Experience with Boeing 107/CH-46 or Boeing 234/CH-47 transmission systems and components strongly preferred
• Documented military or commercial experience working on transmission assemblies or rotor systems preferred
• Experience in a production or shop environment using Lean methods is a plus
• Ability to read, understand, and apply technical manuals and maintenance data
• Proficiency with precision measuring tools and general mechanical tooling
• Willingness to work overtime and/or weekends based on production demands
• Ability to work primarily in a Transmission Shop environment, with occasional support in other environments as needed
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Self-motivated with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial wellness, and work–life balance. Depending on your role, this may include medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans with company contributions, paid time off, and employee wellness resources.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities