Day in the life
A Day in the Life of an Aircraft Assembler
What aircraft assemblers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for an aircraft assembler?
Review the work package. From there, the day usually includes read blueprints, drill and rivet, and install fasteners. Full time, often shifts and overtime.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for an aircraft assembler working full time.
- Review the work package.
- Drill holes with a template.
- Install rivets on a wing panel.
- Apply sealant.
- Install brackets.
- Inspect fastener grip lengths.
- Sign off work.
Where aircraft assemblers work
Assemblers work in large aerospace plants and hangars.
Hours and schedule
Full time, often shifts and overtime.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Read blueprints
- Drill and rivet
- Install fasteners
- Fit structures
- Route wiring and tubing
- Apply sealant
- Inspect work
Tools you’ll use every day
- Rivet guns
- Drills
- Torque wrenches
- Micrometers
- Templates
- Sealant guns
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Build aircraft
- Good pay for no degree
- Union jobs common
- Precision craft
What’s hard
- Declining employment
- Strict quality rules
- Repetitive motion
- Shift work
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love airplanes
- I’m precise
- I follow instructions exactly
- I like hands-on work
- I can work shifts
- I don’t need a degree
Not sure? Take the free Aircraft Assembler fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Wear eye and hearing protection
- Prevent FOD
- Use ergonomics for repetitive tasks
- Handle chemicals safely