Sheet Metal Operator

Location: Phoenix, AZ
Employment Type: Full-Time
Industry: Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Aerospace Sheet Metal Mechanic/ Manual Machinist to support the fabrication, forming, and assembly of precision aerospace components and assemblies.

This role requires deep hands-on experience working to controlled drawings and specifications, maintaining tight tolerances, and operating within a regulated AS9100 aerospace manufacturing environment.

The ideal candidate is technically strong, detail-driven, and comfortable working independently on complex, low-volume, high-mix aerospace hardware where quality, repeatability, and compliance are critical.

Key Responsibilities

• Fabricate, form, trim, and assemble aerospace sheet metal components per engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions
• Perform layout, bend allowance calculations, and material development for complex formed parts
• Operate and set up sheet metal equipment including press brakes, shears, rollers, saws, drill presses, and forming tools
• Perform precision drilling/milling, countersinking, reaming, deburring, and edge finishing to aerospace standards
• Interpret and work from 2D drawings, MBD data, GD&T callouts, and controlled travelers
• Install and inspect hardware such as rivets, nutplates, inserts, bushings, and fasteners per spec
• Fit and assemble multi-part weldments or mechanical assemblies, maintaining dimensional integrity
• Work with stainless steel, aluminum, Inconel, titanium, and other aerospace alloys
• Support welding and post-weld operations (fit-up, prep, distortion control, finishing) as required
• Perform in-process inspections and final verification using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and other precision measuring tools
• Maintain full compliance with AS9100, customer flow-downs, and internal quality requirements
• Accurately document work, inspections, and any nonconformances
• Support continuous improvement efforts related to quality, efficiency, and manufacturability

Required Qualifications

• 5 years of hands-on experience as an aerospace sheet metal mechanic (A&D environment required)
• Proven experience working to tight tolerances and controlled aerospace drawings
• Strong understanding of GD&T, form tolerances, bend radii, and material behavior
• Experience with stainless steel and high-temperature alloys preferred
• Ability to independently set up and operate sheet metal fabrication equipment
• Strong knowledge of aerospace hardware installation standards
• Comfortable working under AS9100 quality systems and customer audits
• Ability to read, understand, and follow complex work instructions and travelers
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to first-time quality

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting aerospace weldments and weld prep
• Familiarity with AWS D17.1 / D1.6 environments (hands-on welding not required)
• Experience with low-volume, high-mix, build-to-print aerospace work
• Ability to assist engineering with manufacturability feedback
• Prior experience with Honeywell, Boeing, Airbus, or similar aerospace primes
• Formal sheet metal apprenticeship or technical training

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Ability to work with sharp edges, hand tools, and industrial equipment safely

Pay

• Competitive Wage guaranteed depending on experience.