Aircraft Assembler Jobs in Arlington, TX
Aircraft assembler is one of the most accessible ways into DFW's aerospace industry, and Arlington workers are within commuting range of the region's biggest lines. Lockheed Martin builds the F-35 and F-16 in Fort Worth, and Bell Textron assembles rotorcraft and is scaling the V-280 Valor tiltrotor. These programs hire assemblers to rivet, bond, and build up airframe structures every day.
Current aircraft assembler Openings in Arlington, TX
Listings marked External are sponsored openings provided by the Jobs2Careers network.
Top Arlington Employers Hiring Aircraft Assemblers
These DFW-area employers hire aircraft and aerospace assemblers within reach of Arlington.
- Lockheed Martin Aeronautics - F-35 and F-16 structural and final assembly.
- Bell Textron - rotorcraft and tiltrotor assembly.
- Triumph Group - aerostructures build-up.
- Elbit America - defense systems integration and assembly.
- Spirit AeroSystems - fuselage and structural components.
- Aerospace staffing agencies - contract-to-hire assembler roles across DFW.
Aircraft Assembler Salaries in Arlington
- Entry (new assembler): about $18 to $23 per hour.
- Experienced (structures, 2 to 5 years): about $24 to $32 per hour.
- Senior (lead assembler, complex build): about $33 to $40+ per hour.
These are estimates and vary by employer, shift, and program. Second and third shifts add differentials, and overtime is common during program surges.
How to Become an Aircraft Assembler in Arlington
Most assembler roles require a high school diploma or GED plus mechanical aptitude, and employers train on the specifics. Tarrant County College offers manufacturing and aerospace fundamentals that help. No FAA license is required to be an assembler, and Texas has no state license for the role. Defense programs require U.S. citizenship and a background check for a clearance.
What the Job Involves
Assemblers read blueprints and work instructions to drill, rivet, bond, and fasten airframe structures and install components. The work is hands-on and precise, with heavy emphasis on following process and documenting each step for traceability.
Skills Employers Look For
- Ability to read blueprints and work instructions
- Hand and power tool skills, including drilling and riveting
- Attention to detail and process discipline
- Ability to stand, bend, and work in tight spaces
- U.S. citizenship for cleared defense programs
Career Path and Advancement
Assemblers commonly move up to structures or final assembly, then into lead, inspector, or planner roles. Many use assembler experience as a springboard into A&P mechanic, avionics, or composites careers at the DFW primes.
Related Careers in Arlington
These related Arlington roles share hands-on aerospace skills.
- Aircraft Mechanic Jobs
- Composites Technician Jobs
- Avionics Technician Jobs
- Aerospace Quality Inspector Jobs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a license to be an aircraft assembler in Texas?
No. There is no FAA or Texas state license required to work as an aircraft assembler. Employers train on the specific processes.
How long does it take to become an aircraft assembler?
Many people start with just a high school diploma and on-the-job training. A short aerospace or manufacturing certificate can help you get hired faster.
Do aircraft assembler jobs near Arlington require a security clearance?
Defense programs at Lockheed Martin and Bell usually require U.S. citizenship and a background check for a clearance. Some commercial supplier roles do not.
What is the shift and overtime pay like for aircraft assemblers?
Second and third shifts typically add pay differentials, and overtime is common during production surges on major programs.
Which Arlington-area employer pays aircraft assemblers the most?
Lockheed Martin and Bell generally pay at the top of the local range, especially for experienced structures and final-assembly workers.
Ready to apply? Browse all aircraft assembler jobs in Arlington, TX on LocalJobPage and apply today.