Build Strength Into Every Flight – Join as an Associate Structures Mechanic
Location: San Antonio, TX
Job Type: Full-Time Consultant (9 Months)
Schedule: Monday–Friday Variable Shifts (1st & 2nd, including overtime/weekends as needed)
Pay Rate: $43.05/hr ($37.96 base + $5.09 H&W)
Make an Impact on Mission-Critical AircraftPDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a global aerospace leader to hire an Associate Structures Mechanic supporting the C-17 program. In this role, you’ll perform precision structural work that ensures the strength, safety, and reliability of one of the world’s most critical military aircraft.
If you’re experienced with aircraft structures and thrive in hands-on, high-precision environments, this is your opportunity to contribute to meaningful, mission-driven work.
What You’ll DoAs an Associate Structures Mechanic, you will:
- Perform close-tolerance drilling, reaming, installation, and removal on critical aircraft structures
- Locate and prepare blind holes for structural installations
- Execute sealing, painting, shimming, and preservation tasks per repair standards
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, technical orders, and specifications
- Complete structural modifications and repairs using tooling assemblies and fixtures
- Troubleshoot and repair aircraft mechanical components
- Work with sheet metal and structural systems to ensure proper functionality
- Utilize precision tools such as torque wrenches, micrometers, rivet guns, and dial indicators
- Access aircraft data systems to manage parts and discrepancy reporting
- Maintain certifications and comply with safety, tool control, and FOD procedures
- Ensure safe work environments using Hazardous Energy and Lockout/Tagout systems
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet cost and schedule targets
What You BringRequired Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
- 4+ years of experience working with non-porous metals (aluminum, titanium, stainless steel)
- 4+ years interpreting schematics, specifications, and assembly drawings
- 4+ years using structural hand tools (drills, rivet guns, countersink cages, etc.)
- 4+ years performing heavy structural work (drilling, fastening, countersinking aircraft components)
- Ability to work variable shifts, including overtime, weekends, and holidays
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in aircraft heavy maintenance (C-17 or depot-level work)
- Experience working with titanium aircraft structures
- Ability to operate forklifts, mobile cranes, and elevating equipment
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift up to 35 lbs (team lifts for heavier items)
- Comfortable working in confined spaces, on ladders, and elevated platforms
- Ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods
- Use of required personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Ability to pass visual acuity and color perception tests
- Comfortable working in environments with frequent noise exposure
Why Join Us- Mission-Driven Work: Support the C-17 aircraft, critical to global defense operations
- Hands-On Craftsmanship: Apply your skills to complex, high-precision structural work
- Team Environment: Collaborate with experienced aerospace professionals
- Competitive Pay: Strong hourly rate with health & welfare benefits included
- Career Growth: Expand your expertise in a high-demand aerospace field
- Safety-Focused Culture: Work in an environment that prioritizes safety, compliance, and quality
Take Your Career to New HeightsIf you’re ready to bring your structural expertise to a team that values precision, safety, and mission success, we want to hear from you.
Apply today and help build the aircraft that keep the world moving.
This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.
Pay Details: $43.05 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
- The California Fair Chance Act
- Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
- Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
- San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
