Drive & Rotor Technician

Columbia Helicopters, Inc.; Aurora (OR); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia Helicopters, Inc. is seeking a Drive & Rotor Technician to overhaul, repair, inspect, and test transmission and drive system components in our Transmission Shop. Hands-on work with assemblies in a shop setting is emphasized.

The role requires 3+ years mechanical experience, strong reading of manuals, and proficiency with precision tools; Boeing transmission knowledge is highly valued. Overtime and teamwork are expected as part of production demands.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training preferred.
• Minimum 3+ years mechanical experience.
• Experience with Boeing 107/CH-46 or Boeing 234/CH-47 transmission systems preferred.
• Military or commercial experience on transmission assemblies or rotor systems preferred.
• Ability to read and apply technical manuals and maintenance data.
• Proficiency with precision measuring tools.
• Willingness to work overtime and/or weekends.
• Ability to work in a Transmission Shop environment and in a team.
• Strong written and verbal communication.

Responsibilities

• 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

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Read maintenance manuals

Strong communication

Team collaboration

Multitasking

Self-motivated

Overtime willingness

Lean knowledge

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical training preferred

Tools

Precision measuring tools

Job description

About this position

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.

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 preferredExperience 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

What you will love about working here

At Columbia, we believe great people do their best work when they feel supported, challenged, and valued. We’re more than a workplace, we’re a team built on trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to doing meaningful work.

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.

We invest in our people. From training and development opportunities to internal mobility and leadership support, Columbia encourages continuous learning and long‑term career growth.

Purpose-Driven Culture

Your work matters here. Every role contributes to our broader mission, and we believe in empowering employees to make an impact, share ideas, and help shape the future of the company.

A Team That Has Your Back

We foster a collaborative, inclusive environment where people are respected, encouraging and supported. You’ll work alongside talented teammates who care about doing great work, and doing it together.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)