Principal Aircraft Structures Technician

Elliott Aviation; Milan (IL); On-site; USD 61,992 - 82,656; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-On Bonus

Relocation Assistance

Benefits on Day 1

Comprehensive healthcare coverage

FREE Generic prescriptions

Paid time off and paid holidays

401(k) Company Match

Technical and professional development

FUN!

Job summary

Elliott Aviation in Moline, IL seeks a Principal Aircraft Structures Technician to perform advanced inspection, fabrication, repair and modification of aircraft structures. You’ll work with engineering data to ensure safety, reliability, and airworthiness with high technical skill and independence.

You will lead from planning to completion, document activities accurately, and mentor junior technicians while upholding FAA standards and quality.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of aircraft structures experience (sheet metal, airframe repair, modification).
• Proven ability to perform complex structural repairs independently.
• Strong experience interpreting SRMs, blueprints, and engineering data.
• Knowledge of FAA regulations (FARs 43, 91, 135, 145) and maintenance documentation requirements.
• A&P license preferred; mentoring or leadership experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced sheet metal layout, fabrication, and structural repairs.
• Work from engineering drawings, SRMs, and technical data to complete modifications.
• Execute precision drilling, countersinking, and fastening (Hi-Loks, blind bolts, rivets).
• Perform close-tolerance assembly and structural installations.
• Identify, remove, and treat corrosion on aircraft structures.
• Take ownership of projects from planning through completion.
• Ensure all work meets FAA and company quality standards.
• Accurately document maintenance and repair activity.
• Mentor junior technicians and help elevate team capabilities.

Skills

Advanced sheet metal fabrication

Structural repair

Interpreting engineering data

Independent work

Education

A&P License (preferred)

Tools

Pneumatic riveting tools

Drills

Reamers

Precision equipment

SRMs

Engineering data

Job description

If you're an experienced structures tech who takes pride in precision work, this is your opportunity to work on complex aircraft projects where your skill and craftsmanship are truly valued.

Join a team where you're trusted to own your work-from layout and fabrication through final installation-and where quality matters more than speed alone.

Why This Role Is Different

• Work on advanced structural repairs and modifications-not repetitive production work
• Be trusted with project ownership from start to finish
• Use your experience on complex sheet metal, tight tolerances, and structural assemblies
• Enjoy a better quality of life in The Quad Cities, choose to live in Illinois or Iowa - low cost of living, short commute, and plenty of outdoor recreation
• Industry-leading compensation, plus sign-on bonus and relocation assistance!

Elliott Aviation, a leader in aircraft solutions, has an opportunity for a Principal Aircraft Structures Technician at our Moline, IL location. Since 1936, we've built our reputation on quality, craftsmanship, and customer trust in business aviation.

Our structures team plays a critical role in delivering aircraft that meet the highest standards of safety and performance. We value experience, attention to detail, and technicians who take pride in doing the job right.

Position Summary

Perform advanced inspection, fabrication, repair, and modification of aircraft structures to ensure safety, reliability, and airworthiness. This role requires a high level of technical skill, independence, and precision, with responsibility for interpreting engineering data and executing complex structural work.

What You'll Be Doing

• Perform advanced sheet metal layout, fabrication, and structural repairs
• Work from engineering drawings, SRMs, and technical data to complete modifications
• Execute precision drilling, countersinking, and fastening (Hi-Loks, blind bolts, rivets)
• Perform close-tolerance assembly and structural installations
• Identify, remove, and treat corrosion on aircraft structures
• Take ownership of projects from planning through completion
• Ensure all work meets FAA and company quality standards
• Accurately document maintenance and repair activity
• Mentor junior technicians and help elevate team capabilities

What You Bring

Experience:

• 10+ years of aircraft structures experience (sheet metal, airframe repair, modification)
• Proven ability to perform complex structural repairs independently
• Strong experience interpreting SRMs, blueprints, and engineering data

Technical Skills:

• Advanced sheet metal fabrication and structural repair
• Expert use of pneumatic riveting tools, drills, reamers, and precision equipment
• Experience with tight-tolerance assembly and structural fastening systems
• Strong understanding of corrosion control and prevention

Knowledge:

• Familiarity with FAA regulations (FARs 43, 91, 135, 145)
• Experience with maintenance documentation and compliance requirements

Preferred:

• A&P License (or willingness to obtain)
• Experience mentoring or leading junior technicians

Work Environment

• Hands-on work in hangar and maintenance environments
• Confined space and physically active work
• Lifting up to 50 lbs regularly

Why Join Elliott

At Elliott Aviation, your experience is respected. We're not a high-volume production shop-we focus on quality, craftsmanship, and doing the job right. You'll work alongside skilled professionals who take pride in their work and support each other.

Location – Quad Cities Area (Iowa & Illinois)

Located along the Mississippi River, the Quad Cities region offers a unique opportunity to choose the lifestyle that fits you best-live in either Iowa or Illinois while working in a centrally located aviation hub.

Whether you're relocating on your own or with family, the area provides:

• Low cost of living compared to major aviation markets
• Short commute times and minimal traffic
• Family-friendly communities with strong schools and safe neighborhoods
• A wide range of housing options-from downtown living to quiet rural settings
• Access to outdoor recreation including boating, fishing, biking trails, and parks
• A growing local economy with a strong sense of community

It's an ideal location if you're looking for a better work-life balance while continuing to grow your aviation career.

We Offer

• Sign-On Bonus
• Relocation Assistance
• Benefits on Day 1
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage
• FREE Generic prescriptions
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• 401(k) Company Match
• Technical and professional development
• FUN!

Compensation

The base hourly range for this role is $45.00 USD - $60.00 USD. The pay range provided is a good faith estimate representative of experience levels. Specific compensation for this role will be determined by several factors including but not limited to; minimum and preferred qualifications, knowledge, skills, abilities, education, experience and location.