Fabricator II

58852BR

Job Summary:

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.

Under general direction, this position is responsible for programming, setting up, and operating CNC waterjet cutting equipment to produce precision metal and composite parts in accordance with engineering drawings, work orders, and specifications. Responsibilities include preparing and optimizing cutting programs, creating toolpaths and material nests, selecting approved cutting parameters, and verifying dimensional accuracy and cut quality. Work is performed from established instructions and procedures with intermittent review of completed work. Performs routine machine inspections, basic troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance to support safe, reliable, and efficient waterjet operations.

This position works Second Shift: 2:30 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develops, edits, and optimizes CNC waterjet cutting programs from engineering drawings, CAD files, and work instructions for prototype and production parts.
• Imports and prepares CAD geometry, creates toolpaths, and nests parts to improve material utilization while maintaining required cut quality and part configuration.
• Interprets blueprints, specifications, work orders, and travelers to determine material requirements, cutting sequences, and dimensional tolerances.
• Sets up and operates CNC waterjet cutting equipment, including material positioning and securing, machine referencing, nozzle setup, and program verification.
• Selects and adjusts approved cutting parameters, including speed, pierce settings, kerf compensation, and abrasive flow where applicable, based on material and part requirements.
• Performs test cuts and first-piece checks as required, confirming program accuracy, material orientation, and part dimensions before production runs.
• Monitors cutting operations and troubleshoots common programming, setup, and cut-quality issues; makes adjustments within established procedures.
• Inspects cut components using calipers, gauges, and other measuring tools to verify conformance to drawings, specifications, and tolerances.
• Maintains part identification, material traceability, and accurate production records in accordance with work-order and quality requirements.
• Performs routine equipment inspections, preventive maintenance, consumable changes, and minor adjustments to maintain safe and reliable waterjet operation.
• Coordinates with manufacturing and engineering personnel to resolve cutting and programming issues and identify opportunities to improve quality, efficiency, and material usage.
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
• Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Other duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications:

• Typically requires an associate’s degree, certification, or equivalent in a related discipline and two or more years of increasingly responsible experience in fabrication and/or mechanical assembly.
• Requires solid working knowledge of fabrication and assembly policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Must have the ability to read and understand technical instructions, drawings, and specifications and utilize basic assembly, measuring, and inspection equipment.
• Must be able to independently resolve most routine issues, contribute to the solution of more complex, non-routine issues, and provide guidance to less experienced personnel as needed.
• Must have working knowledge of AN and MS fasteners, AN plumbing, aircraft riveting tools, and mechanical assembly practices.
• Experience with part identification methods and laser marking equipment, or demonstrated ability to quickly learn and apply laser marking processes, is required.
• Must have basic to intermediate computer application skills pertinent to the field and the skills necessary to accurately and precisely record technical data.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment is essential, as is the ability to work extended hours as required.

Job Category:

Manufacturing

Experience Level:

Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Workstyle:

Onsite

Full-Time/Part-Time:

Full-Time Hourly

Pay Range Low:

54,000

Pay Range High:

86,625

Travel Percentage Required:

0% - 25%

Relocation Assistance Provided?:

No

US Citizenship Required?:

Yes

Clearance Required?:

No

General Atomics is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, ancestry, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, transitioning status, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, medical condition, mental disability, physical disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law. In accordance with applicable federal law, General Atomics takes affirmative action to employ and advance the employment of qualified protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. We also prohibit compensation discrimination under all applicable laws. U.S. Citizenship is required for certain positions. To learn more, please review the EEOC’s "Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal" poster.