MESA Aircraft Structures Mechanic 3
Posted 2026-11-03 · Verified live 2026-11-04
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Description
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, but they’re also making history.
Are you ready to put your Aircraft Structures Mechanic skills to work at Northrop Grumman? If so, our Defense Systems sector is wanting you to join our team as an Aircraft Mechanic 3 and support a production program with Northrop Grumman in Lake Charles, LA. This position will support our MESA Program and is on site at our Lake Charles, LA location.
The MESA antenna is an advanced airborne military radar system integrated into Boeing’s 737 – based airborne early warning and control aircraft E-7A Wedgetail. Its primary purpose is to detect, identify, track, and monitor aircraft, ships, and other potential threats over extremely large distances.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform structural assembly operations in accordance with drawings, specifications, work instructions, and engineering requirements.
- Set up and use assembly fixtures, tooling, and related equipment.
- Drill, fit, align, fasten, and inspect structural components as required.
- Verify dimensions, alignment, hole location, and overall workmanship throughout the assembly process.
- Identify and document defects, discrepancies, and tooling or process concerns.
- Use precision measuring tools and inspection equipment.
- Maintain accurate production and quality documentation.
- Support troubleshooting and rework activities as directed.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
- Work effectively with manufacturing, quality, engineering, and other support organizations.
Work Environment
Work will be performed in an assembly environment using production fixtures and tooling. The position requires consistent attention to detail requiring precision structural assembly to exact engineering and quality standards. Work on the MESA program requires careful attention to detail, accurate installation of structural components, and strict adherence to approved drawings, work instructions, inspection requirements, and the ability to meet program schedule commitments.
Basic Qualifications
- A High School diploma or equivalent and 10 yrs minimum Experience with aerospace structures assembly.
- Experience in aircraft structures, aerospace manufacturing, or a related industrial assembly environment.
- Experience reading engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions.
- Experience working with assembly fixtures and structural components.
- Ability to use common hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring equipment.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to support the physical requirements of the position, including standing, bending, reaching, and working in and around assembly fixtures.
- Ability to change shifts if required by the program.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with drilling, fastening, fitting, shimming, and structural alignment.
- Experience working in a production environment with quality and schedule requirements.
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement practices.
- Previous Level 3 technician experience or equivalent demonstrated capability.
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