Job Title: Manufacturing Technician
Job Description
The Manufacturing Technician plays a hands-on role in building, inspecting, and supporting the integration of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems used in real-world operational environments. You will assemble flight-critical structures, propulsion systems, and subsystems using precise methods and tooling, 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 position requires strong attention to detail, discipline, and accountability, as the hardware you build will fly and directly contribute to tactical readiness and mission success.
Responsibilities
Assemble UAV components, mechanical sub-systems, and structural assemblies according to detailed specifications and work instructions.
Ensure proper alignment, torque, and fastening of mechanical and structural components to meet engineering and quality standards.
Interpret and follow engineering drawings, exploded views, wiring diagrams, and written build documentation.
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 of components.
Support additive manufacturing operations through post-processing, racking, unloading, and material handling.
Conduct basic mechanical and electrical integration, such as installing servos, sensors, harnesses, and avionics.
Operate shop equipment, including drill presses, band saws, air tools, and torque drivers safely and effectively.
Assist with shop floor logistics by 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.
Identify, document, and promptly communicate issues or discrepancies to the manufacturing and engineering teams.
Collaborate across teams to support iterative prototyping, teardowns, and rework cycles.
Uphold 5S, foreign object debris (FOD) control, electrostatic discharge (ESD) control, and shop cleanliness protocols on a daily basis.
Adhere strictly to all safety procedures and immediately report potential hazards or unsafe conditions.
Perform other tasks as directed, including general facility support and non-production duties as needed.
Essential Skills
At least 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 and strong organizational skills, with the ability to maintain clean and accurate documentation of work performed.
Self-directed work style and comfort operating 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 manufacturing environment.
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 the use of calipers, height gauges, torque tools, and other inspection equipment.
Experience working in a prototyping or low-rate production environment.
Comfort with flexible schedules, including second shifts or occasional weekend work.
Why Work Here?
You will contribute directly to advanced UAV systems that operate in real-world environments, giving your work a clear and tangible impact. The organization offers a dynamic, hands-on setting where you collaborate closely with engineers and technicians, gaining exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing methods such as additive manufacturing and aerospace assembly techniques. You will have the opportunity to develop and broaden your technical skills in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment that values accountability, craftsmanship, and continuous improvement.
Work Environment
This role is based on-site at a manufacturing-focused facility in San Diego, CA, with a first-shift schedule Monday through Friday and flexible start times between 7:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. The position requires daily presence on the shop floor; remote work is not applicable. You will work in a hands-on environment with regular exposure to power tools, metal powders, high-temperature components, 3D printing equipment, and other manufacturing machinery. The role requires standing for extended periods and the ability to lift 50-75 pounds. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required and provided, and adherence to all safety and cleanliness protocols, including 5S, FOD, and ESD control, is expected at all times.
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 Jun 4, 2026.
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.
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.
