Low Observable Material Applications Technician

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems; Palmdale (CA); On-site; USD 56,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) in Palmdale, California, seeks a Low Observable (LO) Material Applications Technician to support LO structures, materials and coating processes for aircraft, including preparing and applying coatings to meet stealth requirements.

Candidates should have an associate’s degree or equivalent with 2+ years of experience, ability to read drawings, operate relevant equipment, and maintain safety with PPE; DoD security clearance eligibility is required.

Qualifications

• Typically requires an associate's degree or equivalent with two or more years of experience.
• Ability to read and understand drawings, specifications and procedures.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and proper PPE usage.
• Experience with coating and surface preparation is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and apply material for aerodynamic smoothing and flushness.
• Cut materials to dimensions and bond to surfaces within exact tolerances.
• Perform surface preparation of composite and metallic structures with sanding, masking and related tasks.
• Mix and apply sealants and gap fillers prior to painting.
• Repair damaged low-observable coatings with precise material application.
• Prepare and spray paints and coatings to specified consistency.
• Identify surface imperfections and correct per approved procedures.
• Apply aerodynamic fillers to seams or voids to conform to aircraft configurations.
• Coordinate component-level testing to verify standards and performance.

Skills

Reading drawings

Attention to detail

Communication skills

PPE safety

Teamwork

DoD clearance eligibility

Education

Associate's degree or equivalent

Tools

Coating application equipment

Surface prep equipment

Painting spray equipment

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.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Low Observable (LO) Material Applications Technician to join our team in Palmdale California.

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Low Observable (LO) Material Applications Technician to support all aspects of low observable structures, materials, and application processes for aircraft. This position plays a critical role in preparing and spraying specialized coatings that contribute to the stealth performance and overall structural integrity of the aircraft.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILTIES

• Must be able to work with a high degree of accuracy
• Prepare and apply material for aerodynamic smoothing and flushness
• Able to accurately cut materials to specific dimensions and bond to specified surfaces within exact tolerances.
• Perform surface preparation of composite and metallic structures using sanding, stripping, vacuum application, masking, porosity testing, and related tasks.
• Mix and apply sealants, gap fillers, and other materials prior to painting, using heating devices as needed.
• Repairing damaged or degraded low-observable coatings, often involving detailed inspections, material mixing, and precise application.
• Prepare and spray paints and coatings to proper spraying consistency and specification.
• Identifies surface imperfections and makes corrections using approved procedures. Applies aerodynamic fillers to seams or voids and build up surfaces to conform to aircraft configurations.
• Perform or coordinate component-level testing to verify compliance with required standards and performance criteria.
• May assist in similar tasks supporting aircraft build, modification, or maintenance activities.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires associate's degree or equivalent with two or more years of experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
• Ability and willingness to work on systems which have unusual ergonomic conditions.
• Knowledge of computer operations and applications pertinent to the field required.
• Must have analytical ability to read and understand detailed instructions, drawings and specifications.
• Communication skills necessary to write and record precise information.
• Special skills and expertise to use complex equipment or experimental techniques.
• Knowledge of various low-observable materials, including their properties, mixing ratios, and application techniques.
• Familiarity with paint mixing, sealant application, and surface masking techniques.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow technical procedures and specifications.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and handling of hazardous materials.
• Must have the ability to wear proper PPE
• Must be able to work various shifts, overtime, weekends and travel if required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance is required.

Job Type: Full-Time Hourly

Salary range: 56,180 - 83,518