Sheet Metal Technician

Apera; California; On-site; USD 30,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Apera is seeking a Sheet Metal Shop Technician in California to join its aerospace and hypersonic technology team. This hands-on role uses laser cutters, press brakes, rollers, and forming tools to fabricate precision parts for advanced flight hardware.

You will read blueprints and drawings, measure and inspect with calipers and micrometers, perform drilling, riveting, and basic assembly, and collaborate with engineering to improve fabrication processes.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 3+ years of experience in sheet metal fabrication, manufacturing, aerospace, or a similar industry.
• Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings.
• Experience operating sheet metal cutting, forming, and fabrication equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of projects.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Willingness to work overtime or weekends when needed.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate sheet metal fabrication equipment such as laser cutters, press brakes, rollers, and forming tools.
• Read blueprints and drawings to build parts correctly.
• Measure and inspect finished parts using calipers, micrometers, and other measuring tools.
• Perform basic assembly work including drilling, riveting, and fastening.
• Work with engineering and manufacturing teams to improve fabrication processes.
• Troubleshoot and maintain shop equipment.
• Help train and support other shop technicians when needed.
• Keep the work area clean, organized, and safe.
• Follow work instructions and quality standards.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Independent work

Team communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Laser cutters

Press brakes

Rollers

CAD/CAM software

Job description

Sheet Metal Shop Technician - Aerospace & Hypersonic Technology Company

We are looking for a Sheet Metal Shop Technician to help build precision aerospace components and flight hardware. This is a hands‑on role working with sheet metal equipment, forming tools, and fabrication machinery to produce high-quality parts used in advanced aircraft programs.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate sheet metal fabrication equipment such as laser cutters, press brakes, rollers, and forming tools.
• Read blueprints and drawings to build parts correctly.
• Measure and inspect finished parts using calipers, micrometers, and other measuring tools.
• Perform basic assembly work including drilling, riveting, and fastening.
• Work with engineering and manufacturing teams to improve fabrication processes.
• Troubleshoot and maintain shop equipment.
• Help train and support other shop technicians when needed.
• Keep the work area clean, organized, and safe.
• Follow work instructions and quality standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 3+ years of experience in sheet metal fabrication, manufacturing, aerospace, or a similar industry.
• Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings.
• Experience operating sheet metal cutting, forming, and fabrication equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of projects.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Willingness to work overtime or weekends when needed.

Preferred Experience

• Aerospace, aviation, defense, motorsports, or precision manufacturing experience.
• Experience working with laser cutters, press brakes, rollers, and other fabrication equipment.
• Understanding of GD&T and precision measurements.
• Experience with CAD/CAM software or manufacturing systems.
• Familiarity with Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement.
• Experience building prototype or low-volume production parts.

Physical Requirements

• Lift up to 50 lbs.
• Stand, bend, kneel, and move throughout the workday.
• Work in a manufacturing environment around machinery and tools.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced shop environment.

Why Apply?

• Work on advanced aerospace and hypersonic technology.
• Be part of a growing team building next-generation flight hardware.
• Hands‑on role with visible impact on products and programs.
• Competitive compensation, benefits, and career growth opportunities.