Aerotek

Job Title: Manufacturing Technician

Job Description

As a Manufacturing Technician, you will build, inspect, and support the integration of UAV systems that operate in real-world environments. You will assemble flight-critical structures, propulsion systems, and subsystems using precise methods and tooling while working closely with engineers and other technicians to ensure each vehicle meets rigorous mechanical and performance standards. Your work will span the full production lifecycle, from part preparation and alignment through final assembly and checkout. This is a hands-on, technical role where attention to detail, discipline, and accountability are essential, and the hardware you build will directly impact tactical readiness and mission success.

Responsibilities

• Assemble UAV components, mechanical subsystems, and structural assemblies according to detailed specifications and work instructions.
• Ensure proper alignment, torque, and fastening of mechanical and structural components to meet quality and performance standards.
• Interpret and follow engineering drawings, exploded views, wiring diagrams, and written build documentation accurately.
• Perform functional and mechanical checks on assemblies to verify form, fit, and basic performance.
• Assist with part preparation tasks, including deburring, hand trimming, polishing, and post-cleaning.
• Support additive manufacturing operations, including post-processing, racking, unloading, and material handling.
• Conduct basic mechanical and electrical integration, such as installing servos, sensors, harnesses, and avionics.
• Operate shop equipment such as drill presses, band saws, air tools, and torque drivers safely and effectively.
• Assist with shop floor logistics, including staging kits, moving materials, and supporting shipping and receiving activities.
• Perform light preventative maintenance tasks such as coolant checks, electronic rework, and filter swaps.
• Maintain detailed build records, logs, and checklists for assemblies and tasks to ensure traceability and quality documentation.
• Promptly identify, document, and communicate issues or discrepancies to the appropriate engineering or supervisory team members.
• Collaborate across teams to support iterative prototyping, teardowns, and rework cycles.
• Uphold 5S, foreign object debris (FOD) control, electrostatic discharge (ESD) control, and daily shop cleanliness protocols.
• Adhere strictly to all safety procedures and immediately report potential hazards or unsafe conditions.
• Perform other tasks as directed, including general facility support or non-production duties as needed.

Essential Skills

• 2+ years of hands-on experience in mechanical assembly, UAV systems, aerospace, automotive, machining, or a related technical field.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to follow detailed work instructions and engineering drawings.
• Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, precision instruments, and shop equipment.
• Ability to inspect components visually and dimensionally to ensure compliance with specifications.
• High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to maintain clear and accurate documentation of work performed.
• Self-directed approach with comfort working in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
• Strong communication skills and a high level of accountability in team-based settings.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and stand for extended periods in a hands-on production environment.
• U.S. citizenship.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience with drones, UAVs, experimental aircraft, or aerospace vehicle integration.
• Familiarity with aerospace assembly methods, including riveting, mechanical fasteners, nut plates, bonding, and sealing.
• Exposure to additive manufacturing or CNC machining workflows.
• Experience conducting basic mechanical and electrical functional checks.
• Skill in using calipers, height gauges, torque tools, and other inspection equipment.
• Experience working in a prototyping or low-rate production environment.
• Comfort with flexible schedules, second shifts, or occasional weekend work.

Why Work Here?

You will contribute directly to the build of advanced UAV systems that operate in real-world missions, giving your work clear purpose and impact. The environment emphasizes hands-on engineering, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing methods such as additive manufacturing and precision assembly. You will gain experience across the full production lifecycle, from prototype to final integration, in a setting that values accountability, craftsmanship, and continuous improvement. The culture supports learning by doing, open communication, and shared ownership of quality and safety.

Work Environment

This role is based on-site at a manufacturing-focused headquarters in San Diego, CA, and requires daily presence on the shop floor; remote work is not applicable. You will work in a hands-on production environment with regular use of power tools, precision equipment, and machinery. The role involves standing for extended periods, lifting 50–75 pounds, and working around metal powders, high-temperature components, and 3D printing equipment. You will follow established 5S, FOD, and ESD protocols and use provided personal protective equipment (PPE) as required to ensure a safe and orderly workspace. Attire is appropriate for a shop-floor environment and must accommodate the use of PPE.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of San Diego, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $30.00/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 Type

This is a fully onsite position in San Diego,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 29, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

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.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

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.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.