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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Jet Engine Builder Assistant

💰 $ - $

AerospaceManufacturingEngineeringAviation

🎯 Role Definition

The Jet Engine Builder Assistant supports the assembly, test, inspection, and delivery of commercial and military turbine engines. Working under the supervision of certified engine assemblers and leads, this role performs precision mechanical assembly tasks, maintains build documentation, enforces FOD and quality controls, and helps prepare engines and modules for static and dynamic testing. Ideal candidates demonstrate hands-on mechanical aptitude, familiarity with aerospace quality systems (AS9100 / FAA / EASA practices), and a commitment to safety and continuous improvement.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Aircraft mechanic helper / apprentice
  • Machine shop technician or precision assembler
  • Aviation maintenance technician (AMT) trainee or helper

Advancement To:

  • Jet Engine Assembler / Engine Mechanic (Level II/III)
  • Engine Test Cell Technician
  • Quality Inspector (NDT or final inspection)
  • Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) Lead or Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

  • Component test technician (hydraulics/pneumatics)
  • Tooling and fixtures technician
  • Materials and processes / NDT technician

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Assemble engine modules, subassemblies, and accessory gearboxes using established work instructions, engineering drawings, and torque/fastener specifications while maintaining required cleanliness and FOD prevention practices.
  • Perform precision mechanical assembly tasks such as installing seals, bearings, seals, shafts, vanes, and fasteners using calibrated torque wrenches, pneumatic tools, and hand tools in accordance with engineering release procedures.
  • Interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and bill of materials (BOM) to select correct parts, hardware, and consumables; verify part numbers and serial numbers during intake and build.
  • Prepare engines and modules for static and run testing by connecting instrumentation, completing pre-test checklists, verifying configuration, and supporting engine test cell personnel during start/run/shutdown cycles.
  • Execute and document in-process inspections and first-piece checks using calibrated gauges, micrometers, calipers, depth micrometers, and other precision measurement tools to confirm tolerances and fit-up.
  • Perform borescope inspections and basic non-destructive testing (NDT) support activities (visual, magnaflux, dye-penetrant) to identify surface discontinuities, foreign object damage, or assembly defects, escalating findings per quality procedures.
  • Follow torque, preload, and fastening patterns for critical hardware, apply threadlocking, safety wiring, and mechanical locking devices as required; ensure torque tools are within calibration and log usage.
  • Follow contamination control, cleanliness and handling procedures for rotors, stators, fuel nozzles, and hot section components, including wiping, protective wrapping, and clean-room or controlled area protocol.
  • Complete and maintain build records, traveler sheets, electronic work orders, and maintenance logs in SAP, Teamcenter, or equivalent ERP/PDM systems with accurate serializations, signatures, and deviation/repair documentation.
  • Execute engine teardown, inspection, and reassembly tasks during scheduled overhauls and module exchanges, documenting findings, scrapping damaged parts, and preparing discrepant material reports (DMRs).
  • Support assembly process improvements by documenting repetitive issues, contributing to root cause investigations, and participating in Kaizen/continuous improvement events to improve yield, throughput, and quality.
  • Maintain and calibrate hand tools and test equipment, coordinate with tooling custodians for fixture set-up, and ensure availability of special tooling required for specific engine families.
  • Apply and verify adherence to regulatory and company quality systems such as AS9100, FAA/EASA maintenance directives, export control, and safety of flight requirements while preparing engines for release.
  • Assist in candidate setup and fixture alignment for rotor/stator mating, bearing preload adjustments, and clearance checks using feeler gauges and run-out indicators, escalating out-of-tolerance conditions to leads or engineering.
  • Support the identification, containment, and documentation of foreign object debris (FOD) incidents, participate in floor sweeps and FOD prevention training, and comply with clean zone policies during all phases of engine work.
  • Apply corrosion prevention methods and sealing techniques (sealant, gasketing) and validate proper cure/torque sequences to ensure long-term reliability of assemblies exposed to high temperatures and pressures.
  • Collaborate with Quality Assurance to execute First Article Inspections (FAI), final inspections, and prepare material for customer acceptance or shipping, ensuring traceability and conformity to acceptance criteria.
  • Assist with inbound inspection and part receiving: verify incoming components against purchase orders, inspect for damage, tag nonconforming items, and enter receipt data into inventory systems.
  • Support the training and mentoring of entry-level assemblers and peers by demonstrating proper assembly techniques, safe handling, and company best practices for engine builds and tests.
  • Participate in engine shipping and handling operations including crating, applying preservation coating, documenting serial numbers and certificate of conformity paperwork, and coordinating logistics for secure transport.
  • Execute corrective maintenance tasks and rework per engineering authorization, create clear repair descriptions, and ensure reworked components are re-inspected and re-qualified before reintegration into assemblies.
  • Maintain a safe work environment by following lockout/tagout (LOTO), handling hazardous materials according to SDS, using PPE, and following all shop safety and environmental policies.
  • Respond to ad-hoc engineering or production requests such as sample builds, prototype support, or special customer-specific modifications, ensuring rapid, documented execution under guidance.
  • Track and report production metrics such as cycle time, defect rate, and tool utilization, supporting supervisors to meet throughput targets and providing actionable observations for efficiency gains.

Secondary Functions

  • Support ad-hoc technical write-ups, build notes, and documentation required for engineering change requests (ECRs) and engineering change orders (ECOs).
  • Assist test cell personnel with instrumentation routing, data capture verification, and basic data logging during engine performance runs.
  • Help maintain inventory accuracy by participating in cycle counts, kitting builds for assembly, and updating ERP systems for part usage and scrap.
  • Participate in continuous improvement and 5S initiatives in the assembly area: maintain organization of workstations, label fixtures, and propose layout improvements to reduce motion waste.
  • Collaborate with machining, plating, and heat-treat shops to schedule incoming/outgoing parts and ensure component readiness for assembly sequences.
  • Provide hands-on support for NDT vendors and coordinate sample parts for lab testing and metallurgical analysis as required by corrective action requests.
  • Facilitate cross-functional communication between fabrication, quality, engineering, and test groups to ensure smooth handoffs and minimize rework cycles.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Precision mechanical assembly techniques for turbomachinery, including shaft, bearing, seal, and vane installation.
  • Blueprint reading and interpretation of engineering drawings, tolerances, GD&T, and BOMs for engine components.
  • Hands-on experience with torque tools, calibration procedures, safety wiring, threadlocking, and fastener specifications.
  • Familiarity with aerospace quality standards (AS9100) and regulatory practices related to FAA/EASA maintenance and documentation.
  • Proficiency with borescope inspection basics and supporting NDT processes (visual inspection, dye-pen, magnetic particle).
  • Experience with ERP/PDM systems (SAP, Oracle, Teamcenter) to complete build records, work orders, and traceability data entry.
  • Use of precision measuring instruments: micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, depth gauges, and run-out indicators.
  • Test cell support knowledge: instrumentation, pre-test checklists, and safety procedures for static engine runs.
  • Understanding of FOD control, contamination control protocols, and cleanroom/controlled-area practices.
  • Familiarity with tooling, fixtures, and kitting: set-up, verification, and maintenance of special tooling used for engine builds.
  • Ability to execute prescribed maintenance and rework procedures per engineering authorization and produce quality repair documentation.
  • Basic knowledge of materials and processes: heat treatment effects, plating, corrosion prevention, sealants, and adhesives.
  • Competence in following and completing First Article Inspections (FAI) and using inspection software or templates.
  • Ability to follow and generate Discrepant Material Reports (DMRs) and support nonconformance containment actions.

Soft Skills

  • Strong attention to detail and methodical work habits to ensure zero-defect assembly of critical flight hardware.
  • Clear written and verbal communication for accurate handoffs, build note entries, and cross-team coordination.
  • Problem-solving mindset with the ability to escalate appropriately and contribute to root cause analysis.
  • Team collaboration skills to work effectively across production, quality, and engineering groups.
  • Time management and ability to prioritize tasks in a high-throughput production or MRO environment.
  • Safety-first attitude and consistent adherence to shop-floor safety policies and PPE requirements.
  • Willingness to learn and adapt quickly to new engine families, tools, and process changes.
  • Customer-focused mindset with commitment to on-time delivery and conformance to specifications.
  • Coaching and mentorship orientation to help onboard new technicians and share best practices.
  • Resilience under pressure: able to support rapid-turn builds and test schedules while maintaining quality.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High school diploma or GED with vocational or technical training in mechanical, aviation, or manufacturing fields.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate degree or certificate in Aviation Maintenance Technology, Mechanical Technology, Tool & Die, or equivalent technical discipline.
  • FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification or military training in aircraft engine maintenance is a strong plus.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Aviation Maintenance Technology
  • Mechanical Engineering Technology
  • Manufacturing Technology / Precision Machining
  • Aerospace Engineering (technical diploma)
  • NDT / Quality Assurance certificates

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 0–5 years in aviation/aerospace manufacturing, MRO, or precision assembly environments; entry-level candidates with relevant training are acceptable with strong hands-on aptitude.

Preferred:

  • 1–3 years working on turbofan/turbojet or turbine machinery assemblies, MRO engine shops, or a comparable precision mechanical assembly role.
  • Experience supporting engine test cells, working to AS9100 quality standards, and using ERP systems (SAP/Teamcenter) to maintain build records.
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