Fabricator / Assembler

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 52,020 - 77,325; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. seeks an experienced assembler to fabricate minor metal and composite parts, jigs, and tools from detailed instructions and drawings.

You will perform mechanical assembly, install fasteners, set up laser marking, verify dimensions with basic measuring tools, and help design simple fixtures to support repeatable production. This hands-on role requires precision and teamwork.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree, certification, or equivalent in a related discipline; 2+ years fabrication/mechanical assembly.
• Ability to read and understand technical instructions, drawings, and specifications.
• Experience with fabrication policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Able to read AN/MS fasteners and use related tools.
• Able to work extended hours as required.

Responsibilities

• Assemble and fabricate minor metal and composite parts, tools, and jigs from detailed instructions and drawings.
• Perform mechanical assembly, install fasteners, torque, and secure hardware per specs.
• Identify parts using drawings and travelers to ensure traceability.
• Set up and operate laser marking equipment to mark parts and assemblies.
• Verify dimensions with calipers, scales, gauges and confirm conformance to specs.
• Design and build simple jigs, fixtures, and press tooling for repeatable production.
• Perform basic plumbing assembly using AN fittings and lines per drawings.
• Maintain tools/equipment and follow safety procedures; observe all laws and company policies.

Skills

Reading blueprints

Dimensional measurement

Laser marking

Mechanical assembly

Fasteners installation

Tool operation

Teamwork

Safety procedures

Education

Associate’s degree, certification, or equivalent

Tools

Laser marking equipment

Calipers

Measuring gauges

Riveting tools

Basic hand and power tools

Job description

Job Summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.

Under general direction, this position is responsible for assembling and fabricating minor metal and composite parts, tools, and jigs through precision work on layout, assembly, and installation tasks. Work is performed from detailed instructions, drawings, and specifications with intermittent review of completed work. Responsibilities include mechanical assembly, installation of fasteners, part identification, and laser marking of components. Sets up and operates basic assembly and marking equipment and uses a variety of hand and power tools.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Assists in designing and building production tooling, jigs, and fixtures used to assemble fabricated parts.


• Performs prototype and production assembly from detailed instructions, visual descriptions, drawings, or sketches.


• Performs mechanical assembly operations including fitting parts, installing and torquing fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, rivets), and securing hardware in accordance with work instructions and specifications.


• Identifies parts and assemblies using drawings, part numbers, travelers, and other documentation to ensure correct configuration and traceability.


• Sets up and operates laser marking equipment to mark parts and assemblies with identification, serial numbers, and other required information.


• Verifies part and assembly dimensions using basic measuring tools (e.g., calipers, scales, gauges) and confirms conformance to specifications and tolerances.


• Designs and builds simple jigs, fixtures, and press tooling to support repeatable assembly and forming of sheet metal and other components.


• Performs basic plumbing assembly using AN fittings and hard/flexible lines, including routing, securing, and verifying fit per drawings and standards.


• Utilizes blueprints, sketches, drawings, verbal descriptions, and sample parts to determine assembly sequence, required hardware, and setup requirements.


• Performs preventive maintenance on assigned tools and equipment and makes minor adjustments as required to maintain safe and efficient operation.


• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.


• Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.


• Other duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires an associate’s degree, certification, or equivalent in a related discipline and two or more years of increasingly responsible experience in fabrication and/or mechanical assembly.


• Requires solid working knowledge of fabrication and assembly policies, procedures, and best practices.


• Must have the ability to read and understand technical instructions, drawings, and specifications and utilize basic assembly, measuring, and inspection equipment.


• Must be able to independently resolve most routine issues, contribute to the solution of more complex, non-routine issues, and provide guidance to less experienced personnel as needed.


• Must have working knowledge of AN and MS fasteners, AN plumbing, aircraft riveting tools, and mechanical assembly practices.


• Experience with part identification methods and laser marking equipment, or demonstrated ability to quickly learn and apply laser marking processes, is required.


• Must have basic to intermediate computer application skills pertinent to the field and the skills necessary to accurately and precisely record technical data.


• Ability to work effectively in a team environment is essential, as is the ability to work extended hours as required.

Job Type: Full-Time Hourly

Salary range: 52,020 - 77,325