Job Title: F-35 Aircraft Low Observable MechanicJob DescriptionWe are seeking a skilled F-35 Aircraft Low Observable (LO) Mechanic to join our Contract Field Team (CFT) at MCAS Miramar, CA. This role involves performing depot-level modifications on F-35 aircraft, specifically focusing on the preparation, application, and verification of Low Observable materials on aircraft structures.
Responsibilities- Prepare composite and metallic surfaces for coatings through sanding, stripping, vacuuming, porosity testing, masking, and other tasks.
- Mix and apply sealants, gap fillers, paints, and coatings, ensuring proper consistency and using heating devices as needed.
- Apply surface details according to manufacturer specifications and perform duties in aircraft modification, reassembly, or maintenance.
- Verify the condition and conformity of installed LO materials, determine repair needs, and make corrections or reinstallations as required by design changes.
- Set up and operate material testers and mixers.
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, technical manuals, and repair documentation, including understanding symbols, flags, and notes.
- Identify aircraft locations using station, butt-line, and waterline references from engineering documents and technical orders.
- Use precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and scales.
- Demonstrate extensive experience with tools including drills, angle motors, shears, drill presses, and pneumatic riveters.
- Be familiar with various aircraft materials, including aluminum, steel, titanium, plastic, and advanced composites.
- Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required to safely perform job tasks.
Essential Skills- High School Diploma/GED
- 4 years of relevant work experience as an Aircraft LO Technician equivalent to USAF 5 level or DoN CDI for Mech 3.
- 6 years of relevant work experience as an Aircraft LO Technician equivalent to USAF 7 level or DoN CDQ for Mech 4.
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting schematics, assembly drawings, process specifications, technical manuals, and written instructions.
- Active Secret Clearance or higher (US Citizenship required).
- Ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance.
- Ability to meet physical demands, including lifting up to 50 pounds and performing repetitive movements.
- Ability to document completed maintenance, parts tags, logs/records, and parts requests clearly.
- Compliance with health and safety regulations, tool control, FOD control, HazMat handling procedures, and all training and certification requirements.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including extended shifts, holidays, weekends, and on-call status.
Additional Skills & Qualifications- MOU/Depot or Contract Field Team experience with complex aircraft modifications or aircraft reset experience.
- Experience with F-35 or F-22 Fighter aircraft LO coating removal, application, and repair.
- Heavy Aircraft structural repair experience.
Why Work Here?This is a long-term opportunity to work on the newest technology for fighter aircraft. Employees have the chance to be cross-trained in other areas, enhancing their skillset and career growth.
Work EnvironmentCandidates will report to an Aircraft Hangar at MCAS Miramar. The role may require travel and support at other CFT sites, so flexibility is preferred. The work environment involves the use of various tools and materials, with a focus on safety and adherence to regulations.
Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of San Diego, CA.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $31.06 - $44.31/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in San Diego,CA.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Dec 26, 2025.
About Aerotek:
We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.
Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
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