Aviation Machinist – C-130 Specialist

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Aviation Machinist to join our maintenance team, specializing in the C-130 aircraft platform. The successful candidate will be responsible for the fabrication, modification, and repair of aircraft parts, tools, and structural components. Operating a variety of machine tools, this role requires precision craftsmanship and a strict adherence to aviation safety and quality standards to ensure the structural integrity and operational readiness of the AFSOC fleet of AC/MC-130J aircraft.

Responsibilities

Precision Machining: Set up and operate conventional and computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools, including lathes, milling machines, grinders, and drill presses (HASS VF4/7 and HASS TL-2), to fabricate and repair aircraft parts; Component Repair & Fabrication: Manufacture replacement parts, bushings, sleeves, and specialized tooling for the C-130 aircraft, often working from blueprints, engineering drawings, damaged samples, or CAD files; Blueprint Interpretation: Read and interpret complex technical manuals, engineering drawings, structural repair manuals (SRM), and blueprints specific to the C-130 platform; Material Selection: Select and work with a variety of aviation-grade materials, including aluminum alloys, stainless steel, titanium, and high-strength composites, ensuring proper heat treatment and stress relief processes are followed; Heat Treatment: Ability to perform heat treatment of fabricated parts using heat treatment ovens and conduct Rockwell Hardness Testing IAW ASTM / AWS standards and USAF Technical Orders; Quality Inspection: Utilize precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, gauges) to ensure fabricated and repaired parts meet exact dimensional tolerances and structural specifications; Maintenance Support: Collaborate closely with aircraft mechanics and structural technicians during Letter Check maintenance on the C-130; Safety & Compliance: Ensure all machining and fabrication work complies with FAA regulations, military technical orders (TOs), and internal quality assurance protocols. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe machine shop environment

Requirements

Minimum of 10 years of experience as an aviation or aerospace machinist; Proven experience working with aircraft components, structures, and technical documentation; Proficiency in operating manual and CNC machining equipment; Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and technical manuals; Expert knowledge of precision measuring tools and techniques; High school diploma or equivalent; Completion of a recognized machinist apprenticeship, technical school program, or military aviation machinist training (e.g., USAF Metals Technology or USN Aviation Machinist's Mate); Must be able to obtain and maintain a DOW Secret Security Clearances and access as required by the contract; Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds; Requires standing for extended periods, bending, reaching, and working in confined spaces when necessary; Must be able to work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, depending on operational requirements and aircraft maintenance schedules; Ability to work independently

Nice to have

Experience with CAD/CAM software for CNC programming (FeatureCam / Mastercam); Prior military experience in an aviation maintenance squadron working directly on the C-130 platform