Structural Assembler– 1st Shift

Saab, Inc.; West Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 31,684 - 34,440; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, vision, and dental insurance

Generous paid time off

401(k) with employer contributions

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Saab, Inc. in West Lafayette, Indiana is seeking Structural Assemblers for 1st Shift to build aircraft structures for the U.S. Air Force. This role involves assembling, training new team members, and engaging in quality improvement initiatives.

Starting pay ranges from $23 to $25 per hour, with comprehensive benefits including medical and dental insurance, generous paid time off, and retirement contributions. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens or legal residents.

Qualifications

• 2+ years relevant Assembly or hand-tool operation experience required.
• High school degree or equivalent required.
• Proficiency interpreting engineering drawings and specifications is a strong preference.

Responsibilities

• Execute standardized working procedures to deliver 100% quality.
• Support daily, incremental continuous improvement in safety, quality, cost, delivery, and morale.
• Train and transfer knowledge to new employees.

Skills

Assembly or hand-tool operation experience

Technical degree or certification in aviation assembly

Experience complying with ISO/AS9100 standards

Interpreting engineering drawings

Communication and teamwork skills

Education

High school degree or equivalent

Job description

Structural Assemblers (1st Shift)

As Saab continues to grow its advanced manufacturing facility in West Lafayette, IN, we are seeking Structural Assemblers (1st Shift) to build the aft fuselage for the U.S. Air Force new military trainer, the T-7A Red Hawk. These positions are responsible for assembling the aircraft structure, training new team members, and taking an active role in defining our state-of-the-art production system. Assemblers selected will receive paid, on-site job training through our Aerospace Structures Training Academy. The anticipated start date for Assemblers is September‑October 2026.

Responsibilities

• Execute standardized working procedures to deliver 100% quality according to requirements when installing systems and completing final mechanical assembly on the aircraft structure.
• Deliver work according to quality requirements and work instructions; implement the requirements in daily ways of working in a team‑based environment.
• Support daily, incremental continuous improvement highlighting advancement opportunities in safety, quality, cost, delivery, and morale.
• Perform functional testing of assemblies.
• Handle "Class A" surfaces, including touch‑up painting.
• Sign off when work is complete according to specification.
• Support the training and transfer knowledge to new employees.
• Contribute to a positive and productive work environment, aligned with our company values: Trust, Drive, Expertise, and Support.
• Other tasks as assigned and authorized.

Skills and Experience

• 2+ years relevant Assembly or hand‑tool operation experience required; experience with aircraft structure assembly is a plus.
• High school degree or equivalent required.
• Technical degree or certification in aviation assembly, mechanics, or maintenance is a plus.
• Experience delivering high levels of quality in compliance with ISO/AS9100 standards is a plus.
• Proficiency interpreting engineering drawings and specifications in both written and digital format is a strong preference.
• Ability to execute the appropriate working methods and select the correct hand tools to achieve the proper level of quality and efficiency.
• Ability to work with standardized procedures for high repeatability in an advanced manufacturing environment.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and teamwork skills.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to perform physical tasks such as consistent bending, stooping, twisting, grasping, gripping, standing, walking, kneeling, climbing, and reaching throughout a normal workday.
• Ability to perform repetitive motions (such as lifting or assembly of parts) including the use of handheld power tools.
• Ability to lift up to twenty‑five (25) pounds frequently, and up to fifty (50) pounds on occasion.
• Ability to work extended hours and weekend overtime when required.

Compensation

Starting hourly rate $23‑$25, depending on relevant aerostructure experience. The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training.

Citizenship Requirements

Must be a U.S. citizen, Permanent Resident (green‑card holder), or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Drug‑Free Workplaces

Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug‑free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre‑employment drug screen.

Benefits

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents.
• Generous paid time off, including 8 designated holidays.
• 401(k) with employer contributions.
• Tuition assistance and student loan assistance.
• Wellness and employee assistance resources.
• Employee stock purchase opportunities.
• Short‑term and long‑term disability coverage.

About Us

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring purpose: to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in ten U.S. locations. Saab values diversity and offers unlimited opportunities for career advancement. It respects each person’s needs and encourages employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work. Saab is an affirmative action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Saab is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran, disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.