SHEET METAL MECHANIC (AIRCRAFT)

Full Job Description

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The primary purpose of this position is to plan, lay out, fabricate, modify, repair, assemble, and install complex aircraft sheet metal parts, items, and assemblies that have combined straight and curved edges of irregular curves and planes.

In order to qualify, you must meet the quality level of experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C.

QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants will be rated in accordance with the OPM Qualification Standard Handbook X-118C for the WG-3800 Metal Work Family.

Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most blue-collar positions, you must meet any screen-out element listed and show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying.

Qualification requirements emphasis is on the quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.

The screen out element for this position is the ability to do the work of a SHEET METAL MECHANIC (AIRCRAFT) without more than normal supervision.

JOB ELEMENTS: Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: 1.

Knowledge of the characteristics and properties of any metals used in the trade, e.g., stainless steel, magnesium, and aluminum alloys. 2.

Knowledge of advanced shop mathematics and principles of radial-line development combined with parallel-line development to calculate and devise patterns involving combined straight and curved edges or irregular curves, angles, and planes.

3. Basic knowledge of trade practices, accepted surface preparation and coating methods, and of paints and thinning additives.

Knowledge of safety and environmental standards, regulations, and requirements. 4.

Skill in planning, laying out work in manufacturing aircraft sheet metal parts and components that have combined straight and curved edges, and irregular angles, planes, and curves.

Skill in using complicated measuring instruments such as protractors; calipers; micrometers, height, depth, dial, and screw pitch gauges; and other hand measuring devices. 5.

Skill in reading and interpreting blueprints, diagrams, sketches, and technical specifications.

Skill in selecting and applying the proper coating materials for a variety of sheet metal surfaces of aircraft.

Skill in using a wide variety of hand and power tools such as saws, swagers, and pneumatic riveters and bending machines, and soldering; and painting tools such as brushes, rollers, spray guns, viscosity tester, thickness gauges.

6.

Ability to examine aircraft sheet metal, fiberglass, and composite structures to locate cracks, breaks, holes, bulges, dents, and loose or missing rivets and determine the type and extent of repairs needed to restore original strength, Ability to make repairs by manufacturing and installing new parts, reinforcing, patching, and replacing defective parts.

Ability to use computer terminals to maintain records and document actions.

PHYSICAL EFFORT: Work encompasses strenuous physical exertion when bending and shaping the complex items that are large and bulky.

Physical location of work is in shop areas, hangars, and flight line locations.

Physical exertion is moderate and includes prolonged standing, climbing up and down ladders, non-powered support equipment and motorized platforms.

Works in cramped and awkward positions while installing items; and reaching, lifting, and bending while using hand and powered tools.

Worker must be able to work at heights above 75 feet and must be able to egress down from these heights in an emergency situation. Weight lifted seldom exceeds 50 pounds.

WORKING CONDITIONS: Works both inside and outside and is subjected to a variety of extreme weather conditions plus a moderate amount of noise and vibration from shop machines and to a variety of weather conditions.

Lighting and ventilation may be poor at times. Subject to cuts, bruises, falls, and burns.

Required to wear safety glasses and other applicable safety equipment when performing eye hazardous operations. Must be capable of being placed on the Respiratory Protection Program.

PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work.

You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.

VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social).

Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Major Duties:

Plans and lays out work from blueprints, sketches, drawings, specifications, and work orders in manufacturing aircraft sheet metal structures which have combined straight and curved edges, and irregular angles, planes, and curves.

Examines aircraft sheet metal structures to locate cracks, breaks, holes, bulges, dents, and loose or missing rivets. Uses and maintains tools. Fabricates aircraft flexible control cables.

Performs minor corrosion and paint removal to determine the extent of damage and needed repairs. Performs bonded repairs to metal, fiberglass and advanced composite (graphite, Kevlar) structures.

Utilizes safety practices and procedures following established safety rules and regulations and maintains asafe and clean work environment. Fabricate aircraft tubing and local manufacture workorders.

Uses conventional spray equipment to perform minor painting of components.