Fabricator / Assembler

Job Summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is a world leader in remotely piloted aircraft, tactical reconnaissance radars, and advanced high‑resolution surveillance systems. Under general direction, this position is responsible for assembling and fabricating minor metal and composite parts, tools, and jigs through precision work on layout, assembly, and installation tasks. Work is performed from detailed instructions, drawings, and specifications with intermittent review of completed work. Responsibilities include mechanical assembly, installation of fasteners, part identification, and laser marking of components. The role sets up and operates basic assembly and marking equipment and uses a variety of hand and power tools.

Responsibilities

• Assist in designing and building production tooling, jigs, and fixtures used to assemble fabricated parts.
• Perform prototype and production assembly from detailed instructions, visual descriptions, drawings, or sketches.
• Execute mechanical assembly operations including fitting parts, installing and torquing fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, rivets), and securing hardware in accordance with work instructions and specifications.
• Identify parts and assemblies using drawings, part numbers, travelers, and other documentation to ensure correct configuration and traceability.
• Set up and operate laser marking equipment to mark parts and assemblies with identification, serial numbers, and other required information.
• Verify part and assembly dimensions using basic measuring tools (e.g., calipers, scales, gauges) and confirm conformance to specifications and tolerances.
• Design and build simple jigs, fixtures, and press tooling to support repeatable assembly and forming of sheet metal and other components.
• Perform basic plumbing assembly using AN fittings and hard/flexible lines, including routing, securing, and verifying fit per drawings and standards.
• Utilize blueprints, sketches, drawings, verbal descriptions, and sample parts to determine assembly sequence, required hardware, and setup requirements.
• Perform preventive maintenance on assigned tools and equipment and make minor adjustments as required to maintain safe and efficient operation.
• Observe all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
• Work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Other duties as assigned or required.

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.
• Solid working knowledge of fabrication and assembly policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Ability to read and understand technical instructions, drawings, and specifications and utilize basic assembly, measuring, and inspection equipment.
• Capability to independently resolve most routine issues, contribute to solutions for more complex, non‑routine issues, and provide guidance to less experienced personnel as needed.
• 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.
• Basic to intermediate computer application skills pertinent to the field and the ability to accurately record technical data.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and to work extended hours as required.

Schedule

Second shift: 2:30 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.

Pay

Hourly salary range: $52,020 – $77,325 per year.