Structural Assembler - 3rd 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

401(k) with employer contributions

Tuition assistance

Employee stock purchase opportunities

Job summary

Saab Aeronautics Indiana LLC in West Lafayette, IN, is hiring Structural Assemblers (3rd Shift) to build the aft fuselage for the T-7A Red Hawk military trainer. Candidates must have 2+ years of assembly experience, preferably in aircraft. The starting pay ranges from $23 to $25 per hour, with a shift premium of $2. Training will be provided.

Benefits include medical insurance, 401(k), and generous paid time off. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. A pre-employment drug screen is required.

Qualifications

• 2+ years relevant assembly or hand tool operation experience.
• Experience with aircraft structure assembly is a plus.
• Proficiency interpreting engineering drawings and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Execute standardized working procedures to deliver 100% quality.
• Support continuous improvement in safety, quality, cost, delivery, and morale.
• Complete functional testing of assemblies and systems.

Skills

Assembly or hand tool operation experience

Excellent communication

Collaboration and teamwork skills

Education

High school degree or equivalent

Technical degree or certification in aviation assembly, mechanics, or aircraft maintenance

Job description

Job Description

As Saab continues to grow its advanced manufacturing facility in West Lafayette, IN, we are seeking Structural Assemblers (3rd 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 assembly on the aircraft fuselage.
• 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 and systems.
• Handle “Class A” surfaces, which includes touch‑up painting.
• Sign off when work is complete according to specification.
• Support the training and transfer of 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.

Compensation

Starting hourly rate $23–$25, depending on relevant aerostructure experience. Shift premium: $2.00 per hour.

Qualifications

• 2+ years relevant assembly or hand tool operation experience. Experience with aircraft structure assembly is a plus.
• High school degree or equivalent required.
• Technical degree or certification in aviation assembly, mechanics, or aircraft 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 written and digital format.
• Ability to execute appropriate working methods and select correct hand tools to achieve 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, reaching throughout a normal workday.
• Ability to perform repetitive motions (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 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.

EEO Statement

Saab values diversity and is an affirmative action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. 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 or disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.