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Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
Overview
Salary
Demand
Core Tasks
Technology Skills
Tools Used
Top 10 Knowledge Required
Top 10 Skills
Top 10 Abilities
Top 10 Work Activities
Detailed Work Activities
Work Context
Education
Majors
Interests
Top 10 Work Styles
Work Values
Related Careers
Overview
Job Zone Two: Some Preparation Needed
Experience
Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
Education
These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Job Training
Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Examples
These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include orderlies, counter and rental clerks, customer service representatives, security guards, upholsterers, and tellers.
Assemble, fit, fasten, and install parts of airplanes, space vehicles, or missiles, such as tails, wings, fuselage, bulkheads, stabilizers, landing gear, rigging and control equipment, or heating and ventilating systems.
Salary Salary
Salary at 10th Percentile: $33K
Salary at 25th Percentile: $40K
Median Salary: $53K
Salary at 75th Percentile: $70K
Salary at 90th Percentile: $83K
Demand
Core Tasks
Assemble parts, fittings, or subassemblies on aircraft, using layout tools, hand tools, power tools, or fasteners, such as bolts, screws, rivets, or clamps.
Attach brackets, hinges, or clips to secure or support components or subassemblies, using bolts, screws, rivets, chemical bonding, or welding.
Join structural assemblies, such as wings, tails, or fuselage.
Read blueprints, illustrations, or specifications to determine layouts, sequences of operations, or identities or relationships of parts.
Set, align, adjust, or synchronize aircraft armament or rigging or control system components to established tolerances or requirements, using sighting devices and hand tools.
Adjust, repair, rework, or replace parts or assemblies to ensure proper operation.
Cut, trim, file, bend, or smooth parts to ensure proper fit and clearance.
Inspect or test installed units, parts, systems, or assemblies for fit, alignment, performance, defects, or compliance with standards, using measuring instruments or test equipment.
Position and align subassemblies in jigs or fixtures, using measuring instruments and following blueprint lines and index points.
Fabricate parts needed for assembly or installation, using shop machinery or equipment.
Layout and mark reference points and locations for installation of parts or components, using jigs, templates, or measuring and marking instruments.
Align, fit, assemble, connect, or install system components, using jigs, fixtures, measuring instruments, hand tools, or power tools.
Assemble prototypes or integrated-technology demonstrators of new or emerging environmental technologies for aircraft.
Manually install structural assemblies or signal crane operators to position assemblies for joining.
Swage fittings onto cables, using swaging machines.
Assemble prefabricated parts to form subassemblies.
Clean, oil, or coat system components, as necessary, before assembly or attachment.
Set up or operate machines or systems to crimp, cut, bend, form, swage, flare, bead, burr, or straighten tubing, according to specifications.
Monitor robotic assembly equipment, such as snake-arm robots, used to assemble, seal, or swage aircraft structures.
Place and connect control cables to electronically controlled units, using hand tools, ring locks, cotter keys, threaded connectors, turnbuckles, or related devices.
Clean aircraft structures, parts, or components, using aqueous, semi-aqueous, aliphatic hydrocarbon, or organic solvent cleaning products or techniques to reduce carbon or other harmful emissions.
Install accessories in swaging machines, using hand tools.
Install mechanical linkages and actuators, using tensiometers to verify tension of cables.
Mark identifying information on tubing or cable assemblies, using etching devices, labels, rubber stamps, or other methods.
Verify dimensions of cable assemblies or positions of fittings, using measuring instruments.
Weld tubing and fittings or solder cable ends, using tack welders, induction brazing chambers, or other equipment.
Fit and fasten sheet metal coverings to surface areas or other sections of aircraft prior to welding or riveting.
Splice cables, using clamps and fittings, or reweave cable strands.
Capture or segregate waste material, such as aluminum swarf, machine cutting fluid, or solvents, for recycling or environmentally responsible disposal.
Cut cables and tubing, using master templates, measuring instruments, and cable cutters or saws.
Technology Skills
Technology
Example
Hot Technology
Tools Used
Tool
Example
Top 10 Knowledge Required
Education and Training
70%
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Mathematics
70%
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
English Language
69%
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Mechanical
69%
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Design
68%
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Production and Processing
68%
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Computers and Electronics
63%
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Engineering and Technology
60%
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Public Safety and Security
60%
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Administration and Management
57%
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Top 10 Skills
Quality Control Analysis
68%
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Active Listening
63%
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking
63%
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Monitoring
63%
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Complex Problem Solving
60%
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Equipment Maintenance
60%
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Judgment and Decision Making
60%
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Reading Comprehension
60%
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Speaking
60%
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Time Management
60%
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Top 10 Abilities
Problem Sensitivity
75%
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
Near Vision
73%
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Finger Dexterity
70%
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Information Ordering
68%
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Manual Dexterity
68%
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Visualization
68%
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Arm-Hand Steadiness
63%
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Control Precision
63%
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Deductive Reasoning
63%
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Extent Flexibility
63%
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Top 10 Work Activities
Controlling Machines and Processes
84%
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
80%
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Getting Information
79%
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material
78%
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Documenting/Recording Information
77%
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Handling and Moving Objects
76%
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
76%
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
75%
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
75%
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Thinking Creatively
75%
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Detailed Work Activities
Assemble metal or plastic parts or products.
Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.
Assemble metal structures.
Inspect installed components or assemblies.
Repair parts or assemblies.
Replace worn equipment components.
Reshape metal workpieces to established specifications.
Trim excess material from workpieces.
Cut industrial materials in preparation for fabrication or processing.
Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.
Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.
Clean workpieces or finished products.
Apply lubricants or coolants to workpieces.
Adjust vehicle components according to specifications.
Align parts or workpieces to ensure proper assembly.
Signal others to coordinate work activities.
Assemble electrical or electronic equipment.
Install mechanical components in production equipment.
Operate cutting equipment.
Connect supply lines to production equipment or tools.
Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
Assemble electromechanical or hydraulic systems.
Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.
Mark products, workpieces, or equipment with identifying information.
Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.
Solder parts or workpieces.
Operate welding equipment.
Sort recyclable materials.
Work Context
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?
Exposed to Contaminants
How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
Face-to-Face Discussions
How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable
How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?
Contact With Others
How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
Education
Interests
Realistic
100%
Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Conventional
39%
Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
Enterprising
29%
Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.
Investigative
24%
Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
Artistic
15%
Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
Social
15%
Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.
Top 10 Work Styles
Attention to Detail
97%
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
Dependability
93%
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
Integrity
93%
Job requires being honest and ethical.
Cooperation
87%
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
Initiative
85%
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
Adaptability/Flexibility
83%
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
Achievement/Effort
82%
Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
Independence
79%
Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
Persistence
79%
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
Self Control
79%
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
Work Values
Support
96%
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
Relationships
62%
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
Working Conditions
55%
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
Achievement
48%
Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
Independence
48%
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
Recognition
43%
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
