AIRCRAFT FABRICATION & SUBASSEMBLY LEAD

JOB TITLE: AIRCRAFT FABRICATION & SUBASSEMBLY LEAD

DEPARTMENT: UAV PRODUCTION

REPORTS TO:UAV PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR

CLASSIFICATION: FULL-TIME

CLEARANCE: ABILITY TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN SECRET CLEARANCE LOCATION:CALIFORNIA, MD

Job Summary:

The Subassembly Lead provides hands-on technical leadership for the fabrication, assembly, inspection, and testing of aircraft subassemblies within an aerospace manufacturing environment. This role coordinates daily production activities and serves as the primary technical resource for technicians. The Subassembly Lead works closely with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and Integration teams to ensure products are built safely, efficiently, and in accordance with engineering specifications, customer requirements, and company quality standards. This position supports continuous improvement initiatives, mentors team members, and helps drive on-time delivery of high-quality aerospace products.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Lead and perform aircraft subassembly fabrication, assembly, integration, modification, and repair activities.
• Coordinate daily workflow and production priorities to support manufacturing schedules and program objectives.
• Assemble and integrate mechanical systems, electrical components, in accordance with engineering drawings and work instructions.
• Perform inspections, fit checks, and functional testing of subassemblies to ensure quality, fit, form, and function requirements are met.
• Troubleshoot and resolve manufacturing, assembly, and integration issues.
• Ensure all manufacturing and integration activities are performed in accordance with engineering

drawings, work instructions, specifications, and configuration requirements.

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to technicians and assemblers.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Production teams to resolve technical issues and improve manufacturing processes.
• Verify compliance with customer requirements, company standards, and applicable aerospace industry regulations.
• Support root cause investigations and corrective actions related to quality or production concerns.
• Promote a safe work environment by adhering to company safety procedures and OSHA requirements.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and work areas in a clean and serviceable condition.
• Ensure proper documentation of assembly, inspection, and testing activities.
• Participate in Foreign Object Debris (FOD) prevention programs and maintain annual training requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent work experience or 10 years of experience in aerospace manufacturing, aircraft assembly, integration, maintenance, or fabrication in lieu of a degree.
• Demonstrated experience leading projects, workflows, or technical teams in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Experience with aircraft structures, composites, mechanical assemblies, and electrical installations.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with standard hand tools, precision measuring instruments, and manufacturing equipment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain any required security clearances.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with UAV/UAS platforms.
• Knowledge of AS9100 quality standards.
• Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing best practices.
• Composite fabrication and repair experience.
• Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and work in confined spaces for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work on elevated platforms, ladders, and aircraft structures.
• Ability to use personal protective equipment and work around manufacturing equipment and aircraft systems.

Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, education and training, job-related knowledge and skills, the scope and level of responsibility of the position, internal equity, and market/business considerations. The listed range is a general guideline and may vary based on the selected candidate's qualifications and work location, where applicable.