Aircraft Structural Technician

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Aircraft Structural Technician for a remote role with occasional site visits to Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will repair, modify, and inspect aircraft structures using sheet metal, composites, and other advanced materials, supporting both manufacturing and maintenance teams.

The ideal candidate will have a recognized trade qualification and 7+ years of hands-on experience, with expertise in reading complex drawings and applying structural joining

Qualifications

• A recognized trade qualification in Aircraft Structures, Sheet Metal Fabrication, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience as an Aircraft Structural Technician.
• Experience with aluminum alloys, titanium, composites, honeycomb structures, and structural joining techniques.
• Ability to read complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and repair manuals.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural repairs and modifications on aircraft airframes using sheet metal, composite, and other advanced materials.
• Conduct detailed inspections of aircraft structures to identify damage, corrosion, or fatigue.
• Interpret structural repair manuals, blueprints, technical drawings, and engineering specifications.
• Fabricate and fit structural components according to precise specifications.
• Apply sealants, adhesives, and coatings for structural integrity and protection.
• Operate riveting guns, welders, and measurement devices for structural work.
• Document repairs, modifications, and inspection findings accurately.
• Collaborate with engineers and QA personnel to ensure compliance with standards.
• Maintain a safe work environment by following safety protocols.
• Stay updated on new materials, techniques, and technologies in aircraft structural repair.

Skills

Sheet metal

Composites

Engineering drawings

Manual dexterity

Education

Trade qualification in Aircraft Structures or Sheet Metal Fabrication

Tools

Riveting guns

Welders

Measurement devices

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent leader in the aerospace manufacturing sector, is actively seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Aircraft Structural Technician to join their innovative team, based remotely but with occasional site visits required in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This role is pivotal in ensuring the structural integrity and airworthiness of aircraft components. You will be responsible for performing repairs, modifications, and inspections on aircraft structures using a variety of materials and techniques. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience with sheet metal, composites, and other advanced structural materials. We foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and safety, providing a challenging yet rewarding work environment. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to contribute to cutting-edge aviation projects. The successful candidate will work closely with engineering teams to diagnose issues and implement effective structural solutions. Our client is committed to pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology and values the expertise of its technicians. You will play a crucial role in maintaining the highest standards of aircraft structural integrity, supporting both manufacturing and maintenance divisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform structural repairs and modifications on aircraft airframes using sheet metal, composite, and other advanced materials.
• Conduct detailed inspections of aircraft structures to identify damage, corrosion, or fatigue.
• Interpret structural repair manuals, blueprints, technical drawings, and engineering specifications.
• Fabricate and fit structural components according to precise specifications.
• Apply sealants, adhesives, and coatings as required for structural integrity and protection.
• Operate specialized tools and equipment for structural work, including riveting guns, welders, and measurement devices.
• Document all repairs, modifications, and inspection findings accurately and comprehensively.
• Collaborate with engineers and quality assurance personnel to ensure compliance with standards.
• Ensure a safe work environment by adhering to all safety protocols and procedures.
• Stay updated on new materials, techniques, and technologies in aircraft structural repair.

Requirements

• A recognized trade qualification in Aircraft Structures, Sheet Metal Fabrication, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands‑on experience as an Aircraft Structural Technician.
• Demonstrated expertise in working with aluminum alloys, titanium, composites, and honeycomb structures.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and structural repair manuals.
• Experience with riveting, welding, bonding, and other structural joining techniques.
• Strong understanding of structural integrity principles and fatigue life concepts.
• Excellent manual dexterity and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively to meet project deadlines.
• Good communication skills, with the ability to report findings clearly.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for on‑site assessments or project support in the Mossel Bay, Western Cape area.
• Must possess own tools suitable for aircraft structural work.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive contract rate commensurate with experience for this remote role, with potential for extension based on project needs.
• While this role is primarily remote, occasional travel to Mossel Bay, Western Cape may be required and will be compensated.
• Our client provides opportunities to work on exciting and technologically advanced projects within the aerospace industry.
• We value professional development and encourage technicians to expand their skill sets.
• Enjoy the flexibility of a remote work arrangement combined with the opportunity to contribute significantly to major aviation projects.
• This contract position offers significant autonomy and exposure to diverse aircraft structures and repair methodologies.