Production Specialist

Lever, Inc.; Herndon (VA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage for you and family

HSA

Life insurance

401(k) match

Generous PTO

Job summary

Aventra Defense Systems is seeking a Production Specialist to build components and sub-structures for unmanned aircraft systems at our Herndon, VA facility. The role translates assembly documents and drawings into flight-ready hardware, supporting prototype and low-rate production with close collaboration across engineering, quality, and production teams.

This entry-level, hands-on position requires no prior experience; we provide growth toward advanced production and technical roles while

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; no specific degree required.
• No prior professional experience required — entry-level position; on‑the‑job training provided.

Responsibilities

• Build components and sub-structures by following assembly documents and drawings exactly.
• Assemble and integrate mechanical and electromechanical components to specification.
• Operate hand and power tools and precision measurement equipment to meet tolerances.
• Inspect work in-process and final products to identify and correct defects.

Skills

Read drawings

Manual dexterity

Attention to detail

Basic computer skills

Education

High school diploma

Tools

CAD software

GD&T reading

Job description

About the company

Aventra Defense Systems serves the U.S. government and allied interests by engineering and providing autonomous aerial platforms. Positioned at the nexus of high-end hardware, software, and defense operations, we design, manufacture, and deploy technologies capable of operating within exceptionally rigorous global environments.

We operate as a purpose-led organization that combines the agility of a startup with the rigorous standards required for national security. From fulfilling contracted deliveries to conducting government field trials and advancing system R&D, our operational tempo is driven by the critical nature of the challenges we address.

Benefit Offerings:

• 100% employer-paid health coverage — medical, dental, and vision — for you and your family
• Health Savings Account (HSA) offering
• Employer Paid Basic Life Insurance coverage
• 4% 401(k) match, immediately vested
• Generous PTO and sick time

Position Overview

The Production Specialist builds components and sub-structures for Aventra's unmanned aircraft systems, translating assembly documents, engineering drawings, and work instructions into physical, flight-ready hardware. The role supports Aventra's Production/Manufacturing organization and contributes directly to the company's ability to deliver prototype and low-rate production hardware on schedule. This is an entry-level, hands‑on position: no prior professional experience nor certification is required at hire, and Aventra supports growth toward more advanced production and technical roles over time.

Essential Functions

• Build components and sub-structures for prototype and low-rate production hardware by following assembly documents, engineering drawings, and work instructions exactly
• Assemble and integrate mechanical and electromechanical components and sub-assemblies to specification
• Operate hand tools, power tools, and precision measurement equipment to build to tolerance
• Inspect assembled work in‑process and upon completion to identify and correct defects before hand‑off
• Identify and elevate build anomalies, material nonconformances, and documentation errors to engineering and quality personnel
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe production work area in compliance with company safety protocols
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teammates to resolve build and technical issues
• Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Skills and Experience

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent; no specific degree required
• No prior professional experience required — this is an entry-level position

Skills & Knowledge

• Ability to read and follow assembly documents, engineering drawings, and written work instructions exactly
• Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail for precision assembly work
• Basic computer skills for operating manufacturing and production‑tracking systems
• Ability to organize and manage multiple build tasks concurrently

Licenses & Certifications

• None required

Other Legitimate Minimum Qualifications

• Must be able to obtain and maintain U.S. Citizenship verification required for access to ITAR‑controlled hardware and technical data (see Citizenship / Export Control above)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing environments
• Prior experience with mechanical or electromechanical assembly
• Experience with hand tools and precision measurement instrumentsElectronics soldering or circuit board assembly experience
• Experience with CAD software or ability to read complex technical drawings and GD&T
• Technical certification or vocational training in manufacturing, mechatronics, or a related field

Schedule, Travel & Physical Requirements

This is a full‑time, hourly (non‑exempt), onsite position based at Aventra's Herndon, VA headquarters. 40 hours per week; 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday.

Travel Requirement: None

Physical / Environmental Requirements

• Ability to stand and work with hands for extended periods
• Able to lift and carry 25 lbs.
• Exposure to standard manufacturing/production floor conditions (noise, dust, moving equipment)
• No air travel required

$19 - $25 an hour

Starting pay within the posted range will be based on relevant experience, skills, and qualifications.

Equal Employment Opportunity & Reasonable Accommodation

Aventra is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, business needs, and job‑related criteria.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

This commitment applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, compensation, benefits, training, performance management, discipline, termination, and all other terms and conditions of employment.

Aventra is committed to maintaining a workplace free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. We provide reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities, as well as reasonable accommodations for sincerely held religious beliefs and practices and qualifying pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, as required by applicable law.

Applicants who require a reasonable accommodation during the application, interview, or hiring process are encouraged to contact the HR Department. Aventra values diversity and is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where qualified individuals have an opportunity to succeed.