Aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers
SOC Code: 51-2011Also known as:
A&P Technician (Airframe and Powerplant Technician), Aerospace Assembler, Aircraft De-Icer Installer, Aircraft Fuselage Framer, Aircraft Layout Worker
Median Annual Salary
$61,680
-14.5% growth (2024-2034)
3K
Openings/Year
34K
Current Jobs
What Aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers Do
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
$61,680
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-14.5%
Decline
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
3K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
33,600
Projected Employment (2034)
28,700
Related Careers
Engine and other machine assemblers
$52,540 •
-21.1% growth
Structural metal fabricators and fitters
$49,900 •
-16.3% growth
Layout workers, metal and plastic
$61,870 •
-5.4% growth
Top Skills Required
Quality Control Analysis
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Reading Comprehension
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Assemble parts, fittings, or subassemblies on aircraft, using layout tools, hand tools, power tools, or fasteners, such as bolts, screws, rivets, or clamps.
- Read blueprints, illustrations, or specifications to determine layouts, sequences of operations, or identities or relationships of parts.
- Attach brackets, hinges, or clips to secure or support components or subassemblies, using bolts, screws, rivets, chemical bonding, or welding.
- Inspect or test installed units, parts, systems, or assemblies for fit, alignment, performance, defects, or compliance with standards, using measuring instruments or test equipment.
- 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.
- 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.
- Clean, oil, or coat system components, as necessary, before assembly or attachment.
- Assemble prefabricated parts to form subassemblies.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers:
Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology/Technician
7,637 degrees awarded •
146 colleges offer this program
Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician
3,372 degrees awarded •
93 colleges offer this program
Avionics Maintenance Technology/Technician
719 degrees awarded •
35 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers make?
The median annual salary for aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers is $61,680.
What education do aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers need?
Most aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Common degree programs include Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology/Technician, Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician, Avionics Maintenance Technology/Technician.
Is becoming aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers a good career choice?
Aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers is projected to see -14.5% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 2,800 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers?
Top colleges for aspiring aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers include
Tulsa Technology Center, Polytech Adult Education, Eastern Florida State College, Traviss Technical College, School of Missionary Aviation Technology.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers?
Aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers may also be known as: A&P Technician (Airframe and Powerplant Technician), Aerospace Assembler, Aircraft De-Icer Installer, Aircraft Fuselage Framer, Aircraft Layout Worker, Aircraft Line Assembler, Aircraft Part Assembler, Aircraft Parts Assembler, Aircraft Powerplant Repairer, Aircraft Riveter, Aircraft Sheet Metal Mechanic, Aircraft Structure Assembler, Aircraft Structures and Surfaces Assembler, Armament Aircraft Mechanic, Assembler, Assembler Associate, Assembler Technician, Assembly Riveter, Automatic Riveting Machine Operator, Auxiliary Powerplant Operator.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.