Composite Technician III / LO Applications Technician role at General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, a leader in remotely piloted aircraft and surveillance systems. You’ll prepare, repair, and spray low-observable coatings and related materials on composite/metal aircraft structures to tight specs and tolerances. Standout requirement/perk: ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
- Work on advanced aircraft systems
- Hands-on specialized LO coatings
- DoD security clearance opportunity
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Low Observable (LO) Applications Technician to support all aspects of low observable structures, materials, and application processes for aircraft. This position plays a critical role in preparing and spraying specialized coatings that contribute to the performance and overall structural integrity of the aircraft. This position plays a critical role in preparing and spraying specialized coatings that contribute to the overall performance and structural integrity of the aircraft
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Must be able to work with a high degree of accuracy
- Prepare and apply material for aerodynamic smoothing and flushness
- Able to accurately cut materials to specific dimensions and bond to specified surfaces within exact tolerances.
- Perform surface preparation of composite and metallic structures using sanding, stripping, vacuum application, masking, porosity testing, and related tasks.
- Mix and apply sealants, gap fillers, and other materials prior to painting, using heating devices as needed.
- Repairing damaged or degraded low-observable coatings, often involving detailed inspections, material mixing, and precise application.
- Prepare and spray paints and coatings to proper spraying consistency and specification.
- Identifies surface imperfections and makes corrections using approved procedures. Applies aerodynamic fillers to seams or voids and build up surfaces to conform to aircraft configurations.
- Perform or coordinate component-level testing to verify compliance with required standards and performance criteria.
- May assist in similar tasks supporting aircraft build, modification, or maintenance activities.
Job Qualifications
- Typically requires High School diploma or equivalent and five or more years of related experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
- Ability and willingness to work on systems which have unusual ergonomic conditions.
- Knowledge of computer operations and applications pertinent to the field required.
- Must have analytical ability to read and understand detailed instructions, drawings and specifications.
- Communication skills necessary to write and record precise information.
- Special skills and expertise to use complex equipment or experimental techniques.
- Knowledge of various low-observable materials, including their properties, mixing ratios, and application techniques.
- Familiarity with paint mixing, sealant application, and surface masking techniques.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow technical procedures and specifications.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
- Knowledge of safety procedures and handling of hazardous materials.
- Must be able to work various shifts, overtime, weekends and travel if required.
- Must have the ability to wear proper PPE.
- Ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance required.