Sheet Metal Fabricator

About the Company

Metrea delivers effects-as-a-service to national security partners across five domains and more than a dozen mission areas, including airborne ISR, electronic warfare, secure communications, aerial refueling, special air missions, aerial firefighting, and advanced simulation. We own the full stack: designing, building, and operating turnkey capabilities that provide decisive, asymmetric advantage against rapidly evolving threats.

Our operating model is built around three pillars: Support Groups (global shared services), Core Groups (end-to-end mission capabilities), and Market Groups (regional alignment). Headquartered in Washington, DC, with facilities across the United States, the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

About the Group

The Aerospace Engineering Group (AERO) provides integrated, end-to-end capability for rapid modification and fielding of mission-specific aircraft. The Airborne Asset Adaptation (A3) Cell manages requirements and external interfaces, while the Aircraft Integration Centre (AIC) and Aerospace Design (ASD) deliver technical execution, including airframe modification and FAA-authorized certification.

About the Role

The Sheet Metal Fabricator produces high-precision aerospace formed-metal components and assemblies using CNC and conventional sheet-metal equipment in an AS9100 / ISO 9001 quality management system. This role involves setup, operation, inspection, and programming to exacting aerospace tolerances, ensuring full traceability and compliance. You will collaborate directly with Engineering and Hangar Operations teams to refine prototype designs for aircraft integration.

Responsibilities

• Program, set up, and operate CNC lasers, CNC press brakes, shears, English wheels, rollers, and other sheet-metal equipment to produce complex aerospace formed components from aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and other aerospace sheet alloys.
• Create, optimize, and maintain programs and nesting files using CAM/sheet-metal software (e.g., Onshape, Fusion 360) to generate efficient cutting paths, bend sequences, and forming processes.
• Interpret complex aerospace blueprints, models, and GD&T callouts; perform first-article inspections and in-process checks using precision measuring tools (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, protractors, radius gauges).
• Work strictly within an AS9100 / ISO 9001 Quality Management System: maintain document control, material traceability, process routers, inspection records, non-conformance reports, and continuous-improvement activities.
• Perform machine setups, tooling selection, fixture design/use, and troubleshooting to achieve tight tolerances, proper form, and high first-pass yield.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams on process improvements, new part introductions, and corrective actions.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with company safety and 5S standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Requirements

• Proven ability to program and independently operate CNC lasers, CNC press brakes, and related sheet-metal equipment for aerospace formed-metal parts.
• Hands-on experience fabricating aerospace sheet-metal components in an AS9100 and/or ISO 9001 Quality Management System.
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills.
• Minimum 3–5 years of sheet-metal fabrication experience (aerospace preferred), including setup and operation of CNC lasers, brakes, shears, and manual forming tools (e.g., English wheels).
• Proficiency with precision measuring tools and basic inspection methods.
• Solid understanding of sheet-metal tooling, bend allowances, forming techniques, workholding, and material properties common to aerospace alloys.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with CNC laser and press-brake platforms (e.g., Trumpf, Amada, Bystronic).
• Familiarity with advanced inspection techniques or CMM use.
• Prior work in an FAA-regulated or defense/aerospace manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing or continuous-improvement tools.
• CAD experience.
• Demonstrable ability to assess prototype designs for manufacturability and scale.
• Job-shop environment background.
• FAI process experience.
• Willingness to operate other fabrication or CNC equipment occasionally, as needed.

Additional Eligibility

• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Must be able to pass FAA DOT drug test.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical plan options.
• HSA/FSA accounts.
• Dental and vision coverage.
• 6% employer 401(k) match.
• Fully paid parental leave for all new parents.
• Generous PTO.
• Life and disability insurance (long-term and short-term).
• AD&D coverage.
• Pet insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Subsidized gym membership/plans through Wellhub.

Pay

Pay Range: $25 USD - $35 USD per hour. This is a good-faith estimate and reflects expected base pay upon hire. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as job location, skills, and experience. Eligible full-time employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package.

Schedule

This is a full-time non-exempt position with typical working hours from Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Hours and shifts may change based on department and business needs. Non-exempt employees may be required to work over 40 hours per week with manager approval.

Work Environment

This role operates in a hangar or flight line environment, with exposure to varying weather conditions, loud noise, and aircraft systems. The position may require standing, bending, climbing, and lifting up to 50 pounds. Strict adherence to safety protocols and use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory.

Work Authorization / Security Clearance

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The position may require passing a government-administered background check, and employment is contingent on meeting all clearance and adjudication requirements.

Company Values

Metrea’s core value is Rooted in Humility, supported by four cornerstone attributes: Entrepreneurial, Systematic, Discerning, and Over-Deliver. These form our "Teammate Firmware," guiding how we collaborate, solve problems, and adapt in a dynamic mission space. This foundation enables us to deliver effective solutions and uphold our purpose: protecting our precious inheritance.