How much does a aircraft assembler make?

In the United States, aircraft assemblers with more experience or hard-to-find skills may earn more, and extra training or certificates can help. Pay also differs by employer, location, and how complex or specialized the assembly work is.

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.

What's a typical day like?

They read a blueprint, line up wing or cabin parts in a jig, then fasten them with rivets, bolts, or power tools. They measure and inspect the fit, fix defects, and record checks while wearing safety gear.

In the U.S., finish high school or earn a GED, then apply for an entry-level job or apprenticeship; employers often train new hires. Some aircraft-assembly apprenticeships require age 18, and technical courses can help you advance.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.

One B-29 bomber used as many as 600,000 rivets—and riveters often worked in pairs, one holding the metal bar behind while the other drove each rivet.