Structural Assembler - 1st Shift

Saab Aeronautics Indiana LLC; 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 including holidays

401(k) with employer contributions

Tuition assistance

Wellness and employee assistance resources

Job summary

Saab Aeronautics Indiana LLC is growing its advanced manufacturing facility in West Lafayette, IN. We are seeking Structural Assemblers for the 1st Shift to assemble the aft fuselage for the T-7A Red Hawk military trainer.

The role includes responsibilities such as executing standardized assembly procedures, training new team members, and ensuring high-quality standards. Assemblers will also receive paid job training through our Aerospace structures academy. Starting rates range from $23 to $25 per hour based on experience.

Qualifications

• 2+ years relevant experience in Assembly or hand tool operation required.
• Technical degree or certification in aviation assembly is a plus.
• Ability to execute working methods for quality in manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Assemble aircraft structure and systems following standardized procedures.
• Handle Class A surfaces, including touch-up painting.
• Support and train new employees while maintaining quality and safety.

Skills

Assembly or hand tool operation experience

Communication skills

Collaboration and teamwork

Proficiency interpreting engineering drawings

Education

High school degree or equivalent

Technical degree or certification in aviation assembly

Job description

Job Description: 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 July 2026.

Responsibilities

• Execute standardized working procedures to deliver 100% quality according to requirements to install systems and 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
• Complete functional testing of assemblies
• Handle Class A surfaces which includes 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
• Perform other tasks as assigned and authorized

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 (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training.

Qualifications 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 the field of aviation assembly, mechanics, or maintenance is a plus
• Experience in delivering high levels of quality in compliance with ISO/AS9100 standards is a plus
• Proficiency interpreting engineering drawings and specifications in 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

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 Workplace

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

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

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 local protected category. Saab also is an affirmative action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Disclaimer

Any information not directly related to the job responsibilities, qualifications, or benefits has been omitted to maintain focus on the role.