The Structures Assembler, or Mechanical Assembler, is the technician who puts the aircraft together. Working with sub-assemblies manufactured by others, and materials that are extremely costly, the mechanical assembler is responsible for the final assembly of the aircraft. They pull the pieces together, attaching them so they function as a unit, without fail.
An Aircraft Mechanical Assembler works with aircraft mechanical components and materials and is involved in the assembly, installation, modification and inspection of these components and materials. Aircraft Mechanical Assemblers install pre-fabricated parts to manufacture fixed or rotary wing aircraft or aircraft subassemblies. Assemblers need skills in systems integration, including the use of robotics, and optical and laser-based jigs and tools. The Aircraft Mechanical Assembler is involved in the set-up and operation of tools and equipment as well as some semi-automatic processes.
As part of a large construction team, mechanical assemblers work in a lab or at a workbench, building moving parts like rudder pedal linkage systems or aileron mixer components. This role requires precision and attention to detail, reading from blueprints and complex technical documents. Mechanical assemblers use heating and shrinking machinist techniques to fit bushings and bearings, creating the failsafe pivot parts that control the aircraft on the ground and in flight. They assemble and test hydraulic, pneumatic, and environmental systems, working with such diverse materials as fibreglass for wingtips, magnesium for castings, or even leather for control-column hinge-point security. Experienced mechanical assemblers conduct problem-solving at the flight line. If you like piecing together tricky puzzles and have a knack for mechanical processes, then you’ve found the right occupation.
Career Pathway
- Completion of Secondary School (required)
- Completion of an Aviation Machinist Aviation Maintenance Technician, or Aerospace Manufacturing program at a college or approved training organization (an asset)
- In-house courses for specialist skills (may be available)
- Get CCAA Certification (an asset)