Sheet Metal Technician

United Aero Group; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 74,000; Full time

Job summary

United Aero Group is seeking a skilled Sheet Metal Technician to inspect, fabricate, modify, repair and install sheet metal structures on rotary-wing aircraft. You will read blueprints, fabricate parts, and ensure airframe integrity per FAA standards, with collaboration across engineering and maintenance teams in an on-site environment.

Ideal candidates have 3+ years in aircraft sheet metal, an FAA-approved A&P program or license preferred, and legal authorization to work in the United States.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in aircraft sheet metal work.
• FAA-approved Airframe and Powerplant training preferred.
• U.S. work authorization required.

Responsibilities

• Inspect and repair sheet metal structures on helicopters.
• Read blueprints and engineering drawings for repairs.
• Fabricate replacement parts using sheet metal forming techniques.
• Remove, repair, and reinstall skin panels, stringers, bulkheads.
• Drill, rivet, bend, cut, file, deburr and seal components.
• Use precision tools to ensure accurate fit and alignment.
• Document repairs and modifications in logs and work orders.
• Collaborate with engineers, maintenance, and inspectors for signoffs.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Sheet metal fabrication

Riveting

Drilling

Dimpling

Forming

Hand and power tool use

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or GED

A&P license preferred

FAA-approved A&P program preferred

Tools

Aviation sheet metal equipment

Job description

Description

Job purpose

The Sheet Metal Technician is responsible for inspecting, fabricating, modifying, repairing, and installing sheet metal structures on rotary-wing aircraft in accordance with manufacturer specifications, engineering drawings, and aviation regulatory standards. This role is critical in ensuring airframe integrity, safety, and optimal performance.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Inspect and assess damage to sheet metal structures on helicopters.
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, engineering orders, and OEM manuals.
• Fabricate replacement parts and assemblies using metal forming techniques and equipment.
• Remove, repair, and reinstall aircraft skin panels, stringers, bulkheads, and other structural components.
• Perform drilling, riveting, bending, cutting, filing, deburring, and sealing tasks.
• Use precision tools and measurement devices to ensure accuracy and fit.
• Complete repairs in accordance with FAA regulations, OEM specs, and internal procedures.
• Document all repairs and modifications in maintenance logs and work orders.
• Work closely with engineering, maintenance, and inspection teams for signoffs and quality control.

Workplace Safety:

• Adhere to OSHA, FAA, and company-specific safety guidelines at all times.
• Utilize proper PPE including gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, and respiratory protection when required.
• Operate tools and equipment in accordance with safety protocols.
• Maintain clean, organized, and hazard-free areas.
• Report any safety concerns, accidents, or near misses immediately

SOP/KPIs:

• Follow all SOPs for structural repair, fabrication, and assembly tasks.
• Ensure all work complies with company and regulatory standards.
• Meet or exceed KPIs including:
  • Work order completion rate
  • Quality assurance pass rate
  • Rework frequency
  • Safety compliance metrics

Team Support

• Collaborate effectively with maintenance technicians, engineers, and inspectors.
• Support project teams during helicopter refurbishment, modification, or heavy maintenance visits.
• Assist and mentor junior technicians or apprentices when needed.
• Communicate progress and potential issues clearly with supervisors and team leads.
• Maintain best practices and a positive working environment with all parties at the worksite.
• Coordinate with other departments to achieve outlined goals.
• Respond to communications (e-mails, meeting requests, Teams messages, etc.) set by team members in a timely and friendly manner.
• Learn SmartSheets project management software and take ownership of assigned projects. Aid in the evolution of usage of this platform by spearheading best practices adoption.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Experience: 3+ years of experience in aircraft sheet metal work, preferably on helicopters or rotary-wing aircraft.
• Certifications: Completion of an FAA-approved Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) school or equivalent training preferred.
• Legal: Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Required Behaviors

• High attention to detail with a strong commitment to precision and quality.
• Professional, dependable, and safety conscious.
• Strong work ethic and willingness to adapt to changing priorities.
• Accountability and pride in workmanship.

Hard Skills & Education

• Education: High school diploma or GED required, A&P License preferred.
• Technical Skills:
  • Skilled in using hand tools, power tools, and specialized aviation sheet metal equipment.
  • Proficient in riveting, countersinking, drilling, dimpling, and forming sheet metal.
  • Ability to read and interpret complex technical documents and engineering instructions.
  • Understanding of aircraft structures and material types including aluminum alloys and composite interfaces.

Specific Soft Skills (examples)

• Effective communication skills and teamwork mentality.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
• Ability to manage time efficiently and work under tight deadlines.
• Commitment to continuous learning and improvement

Working conditions

• Indoor hangar environment with occasional outdoor work depending on project needs.
• Exposure to noise, vibration, sharp tools, and metal particles - PPE required.
• May be required to work overtime, weekends, or night shifts as project demands dictate.
• Must pass drug screening, background checks, and regulatory compliance requirements

Essential Job Functions

• Structural inspection, repair, and modification of helicopter sheet metal components.
• Reading and applying information from blueprints, drawings, and technical manuals.
• Operating sheet metal tools and equipment.
• Recording work performed for regulatory and internal documentation.
• Ensuring airworthiness and structural integrity of aircraft components

Physical requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Frequent standing, climbing, bending, kneeling, and working in confined or elevated spaces.
• Good manual dexterity, vision, and hand-eye coordination.
• Capable of wearing safety gear for extended periods

Direct reports

None