Low Observable Material Applications Technician

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems; Palmdale (CA); On-site; USD 59,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) in Palmdale, CA, seeks a meticulous LO Material Applications Technician to support low-observable structures, materials, and coatings for aircraft.

The role focuses on preparing and applying coatings that contribute to stealth performance and structural integrity. The candidate will prepare and spray materials, inspects surfaces for imperfections, and may assist in related aircraft build or maintenance tasks.

Qualifications

• AA degree or equivalent with 5+ years of experience.
• Read and follow detailed drawings and specifications.
• Knowledge of low-observable materials and application techniques.
• Experience with paint mixing and sealant application.
• Willing to work shifts, overtime, weekends, and travel.
• Ability to obtain DoD security clearance.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow procedures.
• Safe handling of hazardous materials.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Proficient computer operations and applications.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and apply material for aerodynamic smoothing and flushness.
• Cut materials to specific dimensions and bond to surfaces with tight tolerances.
• Surface preparation of composite and metallic structures using sanding and related tasks.
• Mix and apply sealants and other materials prior to painting.
• Repair damaged coatings with precise application.
• Prepare and spray paints and coatings to specification.
• Identify surface imperfections and correct using approved procedures.
• Coordinate component-level testing to verify standards.
• Support aircraft build, modification, or maintenance activities.

Skills

Analytical ability

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Cross-functional team

PPE

Safety procedures

Security clearance

Education

Associate's degree or equivalent

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.

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 and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires associate's degree or equivalent with five 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: 59,000 - 94,625