Aircraft Wood Shop Specialist

Jet Access is a family-owned, professionally operated private aviation company offering aircraft management, charter, maintenance, sales, flight training, FBO services, and charter brokerage. We prioritize safety, ethical decision-making, teamwork, relationships, and positivity in a high-energy, growth-driven environment.

About the role

As an Aircraft Wood Shop Specialist, you will strip, rebuild, and refinish cabinet faces, tables, side ledges, and trim panels for Jet Access aircraft interiors. Your attention to detail at the substrate level ensures the finish meets the high standards expected by aircraft owners.

Responsibilities

• Disassemble interior components using solvents and heat guns, clean and prepare surfaces for refinishing, and evaluate substrate condition to repair damage rather than cover it.
• Track component sets by aircraft and project to prevent loss or mismatching during teardown.
• Fabricate laminate and veneer to precise measurements, develop patterns from prints or verbal instructions, and match grain, pattern, and color across adjacent components.
• Safely operate woodworking equipment (routers, saws, sanders) while adhering to OSHA and Jet Access safety procedures, including wearing protective gear (masks, goggles, gloves, etc.).
• Handle solvents, adhesives, and finishing chemicals according to product data and shop procedures; maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Work with limited supervision on routine and non-routine assignments, completing tasks within budget without sacrificing quality or finish standards.
• Perform calculations for tooling, parts, and installations; log labor data accurately for time and attendance tracking.
• Train team members on job assignments and finishing techniques; recommend process improvements to reduce rework and improve consistency.
• Provide accurate status updates on assigned work to reflect true progress on department Scorecard measurables.
• Complete special projects and initiatives to contribute to Jet Access’s growth.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of three years of hands-on fabrication, refinishing, or millwork experience in a high-craft finishing environment (aviation experience not required; comparable backgrounds include automotive restoration, marine interiors, or fine furniture/cabinetry).
• Proven experience using hand and power tools; ability to perform shop math for tooling, parts, and installations.
• Ability to distinguish colors and match grain, pattern, and finish across components.
• Strong communication skills to document work performed and follow written/verbal instructions.
• Alignment with Jet Access core values: Safety First, Do the Right Thing, Take Care of Each Other, Relationships Matter, Maintain Positivity.
• On-site presence at the Indianapolis interior shop (no remote work).
• Able to lift and transport up to 60 lbs. with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Visual capacity and dexterity to work on fine detail with minimal rework.
• Able to wear protective equipment (masks, goggles, gloves, etc.) for extended periods.
• Able to work in tight or confined spaces, climb in/out of aircraft, and perform tasks in unusual positions.
• No allergies to chemicals, solvents, paints, adhesives, fabrics, or feathers.
• Sustained standing, bending, and repetitive motion across a full shift.
• Successful completion of pre-employment background check and drug screening (FAA Safety Sensitive role; subject to DOT/FAA random testing).

Skills

• Self-starter with minimal supervision required; positive mindset and ability to stay focused.
• Comfortable working independently or as part of a team; receptive to feedback on finish quality.
• Eager to learn and develop craft; builds trust across departments (sewing, paint, maintenance).
• Experience sanding and polishing clearcoat to a high-gloss finish.
• Cabinetry, millwork, or fine furniture background.
• Aircraft interior refurbishment experience (business jet platforms a plus).
• Familiarity with FAA-approved interior materials, burn certification, and flammability requirements.
• Prior work in an FAA Part 145 repair station shop.

Schedule

• Full-time hourly schedule on the shop floor; start/end times set by project phase.
• Overtime, evening, and occasional weekend work as project deadlines require.
• Attendance at department meetings, safety briefings, and Level 10 Meetings as scheduled.

Pay

Hourly rate of $22.00 to $35.00, based on experience and demonstrated craft capability. Overtime compensated per federal/state wage laws. Advancement within the interior craft pay structure based on quality, output, and tenure.

Benefits

• Generous benefits package.
• Competitive wages and paid vacation/holidays.
• Excellent training programs and discounted flight training.
• Compassionate, transparent leadership focused on personal and professional growth.