Shift: Must be available to work 1st and 2nd shift based on business needs. PDS Defense, Inc. is seeking an experienced C-17 Aircraft Structures Mechanic to perform complex structural modifications, repairs, and heavy maintenance in a depot-level environment. This role supports mission-critical o
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C-17 Aircraft Structures Mechanic - San Antonio, TX
Job Description:

Shift: Must be available to work 1st and 2nd shift based on business needs.

PDS Defense, Inc. is seeking an experienced C-17 Aircraft Structures Mechanic to perform complex structural modifications, repairs, and heavy maintenance in a depot-level environment. This role supports mission-critical operations and requires strong technical skill, precision, and the ability to work variable shifts.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform close-tolerance drilling, reaming, removal, and installation on critical support structures and fracture-critical areas.
  • Locate blind holes to support installation of new structural components.
  • Conduct sealing, painting, shimming, and structural preservation per standard repair processes.
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, technical orders, process specifications, and retrofit requirements.
  • Utilize tooling assemblies and fixtures for depot-level structural repairs.
  • Troubleshoot and repair mechanical components; replace aircraft components as needed.
  • Work with aircraft sheet metal modifications and repairs; verify functionality of non-complex electrical systems.
  • Operate specialized aircraft tools (e.g., torque wrenches, micrometers, tensiometers, sheet metal brakes and shears).
  • Access aircraft data systems and submit online parts/discrepancy requests.
  • Maintain required certifications, licenses, and permits.
  • Climb vertical ladders, work in confined spaces, and lift up to 35 lbs.
  • Ensure a safe working environment following Hazardous Energy, Lockout/Tagout, and FOD procedures.
  • Collaborate across teams (General Mechanics, Avionics, Electronics) to meet cost and schedule targets.
  • Successfully pass required training assessments and comply with site tool control.
Job Requirements:
  • 4+ years working with non-porous metals (aluminum, titanium, stainless steel).
  • 4+ years working from schematics, specs, assembly drawings, and SOPs.
  • 4+ years using structural hand tools (drills, 45°/90° tools, countersink cages, hole finders, rivet guns, etc.).
  • 4+ years performing heavy aircraft structures work (locating, drilling, countersinking, fastening doublers, stringers, webs, seat tracks, etc.).
  • Ability to work variable shifts, including overtime, weekends, and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications

  • C-17 or depot-level heavy maintenance experience.
  • Experience working with titanium aircraft structures.
  • Ability to operate a forklift, mobile crane, and powered elevating equipment.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, work in confined spaces, and lift ~35 lbs (with occasional two-person lifts for >50 lbs).
  • Frequent overhead reaching, standing, walking, and balancing on uneven surfaces.
  • Occasional crawling, squatting, bending/stooping, sitting, and extended head/neck rotation.
  • Ability to pass visual acuity and color-perception tests.
  • Handle and dispose of hazardous materials safely.
  • Use required PPE (eye/face/ear/hand/arm protection).
  • Tolerance for noise exposure and elevated work platforms.

Education & Other Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED, plus 1+ year of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Successful completion of OJT or formal training is required as a contingency for assignment.
  • Must maintain regular, predictable attendance.
  • Must be available to work 1st and 2nd shift based on business needs.

Benefits offered to vary by the contract. Depending on your temporary assignment, benefits may include direct deposit, free career counseling services, 401(k), select paid holidays, short-term disability insurance, skills training, employee referral bonus, affordable medical coverage plan, and DailyPay (in some locations). For a full description of benefits available to you, be sure to talk with your recruiter.

PDS Defense, Inc. is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please call 1-866-224-2745 to contact us. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.

The law requires PDS Defense, Inc. to post a notice describing the Federal laws prohibiting job discrimination. For information regarding your legal rights and protections, please click on the following links: EEO is the Law and EEO is the Law Supplement

PDS Defense, Inc. will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay. Please see the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision for more information.

As a Federal Contractor, PDS Defense, Inc. is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. For information, please click on the following link: E-Verify

The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please visit https://www.pdsdefense.com/candidate-privacy/.

Company Details
PDS Defense, Inc.
1001 3rd Avenue W
Ste 460
Bradenton, Florida 34205 USA
www.pdsdefense.com/
105 Open Jobs Available
PDS Defense specializes in finding the best talent for our customers, either on a contract or direct-hire basis. We post hundreds of new positions each week, nationwide. If you are interested in working in the Staffing Industry, you can search our in...
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Job Info
Location
San Antonio, Texas, USA
Type
Contractor
Company Details
PDS Defense, Inc.
1001 3rd Avenue W
Ste 460
Bradenton, Florida 34205 USA
www.pdsdefense.com/
105 Open Jobs Available
PDS Defense specializes in finding the best talent for our customers, either on a contract or direct-hire basis. We post hundreds of new positions each week, nationwide. If you are interested in working in the Staffing Industry, you can search our in...

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