Aircraft Structures Technician

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid leave

Overtime pay

Training and advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Aircraft Structures Technician for a hands-on role in East London, Eastern Cape. You will inspect airframes, fabricate parts, and perform repairs to airworthiness standards in a modern MRO hangar.

The role requires 3–5 years of hands-on experience, sheet metal and composite repair skills, and the ability to read technical drawings. On-site work with safety at the forefront.

Candidates must have a valid SA work right and a recognised aviation certification.

Qualifications

• Trade qualification as an Aircraft Structures Technician, Sheet Metal Worker, or equivalent certification from a recognised aviation training institution.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of hands-on experience working as an aircraft structures technician in an MRO or manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience with airframe structures and related components; ability to read and interpret technical manuals, drawings and maintenance orders.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural inspections and assess required repairs on aircraft airframes.
• Fabricate and repair structural components using sheet metal, composites and approved materials.
• Install, align, and fit structural parts ensuring adherence to specifications.
• Work from technical manuals, blueprints, engineering drawings, and work orders to complete tasks.
• Operate tools such as sheet metal brakes, shears, drills, and riveting equipment.

Skills

Aircraft structures

Sheet metal fabrication

Composite repair

Engineering drawings

Education

Aircraft Structures Technician qualification

Sheet metal worker certification

Tools

Sheet metal brakes

Riveting equipment

Drills

Forming tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) provider in the aviation sector, is actively seeking a skilled Aircraft Structures Technician for their facility in East London, Eastern Cape. This hands‑on role is crucial for performing repairs, modifications, and maintenance on the airframes of various aircraft types. You will be responsible for inspecting structural integrity, fabricating replacement parts, and executing repairs according to approved technical data and airworthiness directives. The ideal candidate possesses strong practical skills in sheet metal work, composite repair, and structural assembly, along with a rigorous commitment to safety and quality standards. This position requires dedicated on‑site work within our client's modern maintenance hangar.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform structural inspections, identify damage, and assess the extent of repairs required on aircraft airframes.
• Fabricate and repair structural components using sheet metal, composite materials, and other approved materials.
• Install, align, and fit structural parts and assemblies, ensuring precise adherence to specifications.
• Work from technical manuals, blueprints, engineering drawings, and work orders to complete assigned tasks.
• Operate relevant tools and machinery, including sheet metal brakes, shears, drills, and riveting equipment.
• Effectively use measuring instruments and gauges to ensure accuracy in repairs and installations.
• Perform composite repairs, including preparation, lay‑up, curing, and finishing.
• Assist in aircraft jacking, rigging, and structural component removal/installation.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring all tools and equipment are properly stored and maintained.
• Adhere strictly to all safety regulations, company policies, and aviation authority standards (e.g., SACAA requirements).

Requirements

• Trade qualification as an Aircraft Structures Technician, Sheet Metal Worker, or equivalent certification from a recognized aviation training institution.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of hands‑on experience working as an aircraft structures technician in an MRO or manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience with airframe structures, including fuselage, wings, empennage, and landing gear components.
• Proficiency in sheet metal fabrication, riveting, forming, and repair techniques.
• Experience with composite material repair techniques is highly desirable.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, engineering drawings, and maintenance work orders.
• Strong understanding of aircraft structural integrity principles and safety protocols.
• Excellent mechanical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
• Must hold a valid driver's license and be able to work shifts if required.
• Must have the legal right to work in **South Africa**.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, overtime pay, and a robust benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund, and paid leave.
• This role provides a stable career path within the aviation maintenance sector, contributing directly to flight safety.
• The position is based in East London, Eastern Cape, offering a professional and stimulating work environment.
• Opportunities for further training, type ratings, and career advancement within the company are available.
• You will be part of a skilled team working on modern aircraft.