METAL SPECIALIST TECHNICIAN - CRAFTSMAN/MASTER LEVEL

HQ Aero is currently recruiting for an experienced METAL SPECIALIST TECHNICIAN - CRAFTSMAN/MASTER LEVEL in SMYRNA, TN

Responsibilities:
The Metal Specialist, under minimal supervision, performs repairs and alterations to aircraft sheet metal and fabricates and installs avionics panels and related substructure – generally related to avionics upgrades or aircraft interior upgrades the company completes. In this role, the Metal Specialist also may perform painting and finish work on instrument panels. When not performing metal-focused work, the Metal Specialist also can assist in other aspects of avionics, interior and/or airframe related services for aircraft. This role reports to the Avionics Installation Manager.

Job Type:

• Contract to Hire

Essential Job Functions:

• Fabricate parts, assemblies and antenna doublers from metal stock using appropriate fasteners and using the companies tooling, which includes CAD/CAM CNC tooling and software.
• Install new, repaired and/or fabricated parts in or on pressurized aircraft or non-pressurized aircraft.
• Work with techs, engineering and management to collaborate as needed on installation design and planning, particularly with regard to metal-related component placement and methodology.
• Modify existing instrument panels or fabricate new panels; fabricate equipment shelves as required; and fabricate and install other hardware to support and enable aviation electronics systems.
• Perform appropriate corrosion control processes on parts prior to installation.
• Assure that installations are done in accordance with procedures described in the company's FAA Repair Station Manual as well as with FAA Regulations, manufacturer instructions, and company policies/standards.
• Keep the company's Metal Workshop in top operating order in accordance with company policies/standards.
• Use sound judgment and technical aptitude to make good decisions regarding job sequence and techniques, troubleshooting and discrepancy resolution – all in order to maximize quality and efficiency and adhere to agreed-upon deadlines.
• Demonstrate proficiency in reading and interpreting wiring diagrams, aircraft blueprints, and schematics.
• Wire, install, test, and verify operation of avionics equipment and accessories; identify and correct electronics failures in various airframes using hand tools, test equipment, technical documents, and technical reference materials; all the while communicating with co-workers and in some cases with manufacturers in a timely, effective way.
• Operate with the highest level of ethics, integrity, safety and honesty.
• Be able to lift equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Be able to climb ladders, apply finger and hand dexterity in using hand tools, be able to move around the shop/hangar area and within aircraft continuously throughout the workday.

Key Competencies and Attributes:

• Passion for aviation, learning, innovation and achievement.
• Self-motivation and the ability to work primarily in a self-directed way with minimal oversight required.
• Ability to operate hand tools, CAD/CAM CNC systems, riveting and related metal-working tools.
• Ability to PLAN such metal work as part of an overall aircraft project, and an ability to execute the plan with high efficiency.
• Superlative to exemplary ability to achieve aesthetically-pleasing and functional solutions.
• Willingness to work alongside others in the team - as part of the team - and lead by example.
• Ideally, ability to lead/mentor others in team to foster their professional and technical skills development.
• Integrity, trustworthiness, work ethic, good judgment and dependability.
• Professional appearance, demeanor and presence; Customer service orientation, attitude and demeanor.
• Computer usage expertise, including MSFT Office & EBis line of business software (training provided for EBis).
• Compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Must be able to pass drug test, as required by FAA, and pass criminal/background check.

• Required Experience: Minimum of two years of work experience in a general aviation aircraft modification/completion shop performing sheet metal, aircraft structures, fabrication work.
• Preferred Experience: At least five years of successful performing sheet metal, aircraft structures, fabrication work.
• Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Preferred Education: College / university degree or two years of accredited schooling in structures, metal-working and/or composites.
• Preferred Credential: FAA Mechanic / Repairman's Certificate with Airframe and Powerplant Ratings.
• Criminal Background Check & Compliant to FAA Drug and Alcohol screening checks are mandatory.