Launch your career in aviation craftsmanship. Build a flying piece of art. At WACO Classic Aircraft Corporation, we don’t just build planes; we build flying pieces of art. As the world’s only producer of new FAA- and EASA-certified open cockpit and enclosed sport biplanes, we blend tradition, innovation, and unmatched craftsmanship. We’re looking for a hands-on Sheet Metal Associate to join our production team. Whether you're just starting out in the trade or bringing years of fabrication experience, this role offers a solid runway for growth, especially for candidates from HVAC, welding, military aircraft maintenance, or entry-level A&P pathways. What You’ll Do: • Fabrication and Assembly • Cut, bend, shape, and form sheet metal using shears, brakes, and presses. • Interpret blueprints, work orders, and engineering drawings. • Assemble aircraft structures with precision and care — rivets, fasteners, and all. Quality and Safety • Inspect parts for accuracy and structural integrity. • Follow strict safety and aviation standards, your work quite literally takes flight. • Maintain tools and report issues for timely repair. Team Collaboration • Work closely with experienced mentors and team leads to problemsolve and learn. • Be part of a team that values your input, initiative, and attention to detail. Who Thrives in This Role: • Former sheet metal techs. • Candidates with HVAC or welding and fabrication in shop experience. • Entrylevel Airframe and Powerplan mechanics looking to grow under expert mentorship. • Veterans or activeduty military personnel with aircraft maintenance experience. • Handson individuals who enjoy building things with precision and pride. What You Bring: • A high school diploma or equivalent. • Hands on experience with sheet metal or mechanical systems. • Comfort reading blueprints and working with fabrication tools. • Strong work ethic, physical stamina, and attention to detail. • A positive attitude and willingness to learn from experienced mentors. Why You’ll Love It Here • Make real things that fly — be proud of your craftsmanship • Work with passionate people who take pride in their work and each other • Opportunities to grow into new roles and expand your skills • Great benefits and competitive pay • A culture that values quality, safety, and collaboration • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy a healthy worklife balance. • 9 Paid Holidays: Celebrate what matters to you without worrying about time off. • Comprehensive Medical Insurance: Available after just 30 days to protect your health and wellbeing. • Vision Insurance: Ensure your sight is as clear as your future, starting after 30 days. • Dental Insurance: Maintain your smile and oral health with coverage available after 30 days. • 401(k) Plan with Company Match: Secure your financial future with a match of up to 5%. • Disability Insurance: Benefit from both ShortTerm and LongTerm plans for added peace of mind. • CompanyPaid Life Insurance: Protect your loved ones with our comprehensive coverage. • A Thriving Work Environment: Join a dynamic team that inspires you to grow and launch a fulfilling career. • Valuable Development Opportunities: Your ideas matter here! Contribute to projects where your voice can shape the future. • Complimentary Uniforms Provided: Focus on your work while we take care of your attire. Ready to Build a Career That Takes Off? Join a team where you can take pride in your work — and see it soar. Whether you're launching a new career or elevating your current one, WACO is where legacy meets opportunity. Location: 15955 S. Airport Road Battle Creek, MI 49015 www.wacoaircraft.com Job Type: Full-time, On-Site Job Function: Production Shift: 1st Shift Hours: 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM Overtime: Occasional Location: 15955 S. Airport Road, Battle Creek, MI 49015, USA Learn more about us: https://www.wacoaircraft.com/ WACO Aircraft Corporation - Home | Facebook WACO Aircraft Corporation (@WACOAircraft) / Twitter WACO Aircraft Corp: My Company | LinkedIn WACO Aircraft - Instagram Legal Note Waco Classic Aircraft is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. If you are a dedicated professional who is passionate about maintaining high-quality standards, we encourage you to apply for this position. Join our team and contribute to our commitment to excellence in product quality. About Waco Classic Aircraft Corporation DIMOR Group is proud to be the parent company of WACO Classic Aircraft Corporation and a dynamic range of successful businesses across the Americas, Germany, and Switzerland. Our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation drives our growth in diverse markets, positioning us as a leader in the industry. Our portfolio of companies features WACO Aircraft, known for excellence in aviation craftsmanship, JUNKERS Aircraft Corp. a leader in innovative aircraft design, and Centennial Aircraft Services, committed to providing top-notch air travel experiences. WACO Classic Aircraft Corporation is the exclusive manufacturer of iconic 1930s-era biplanes. Each one is a stunning tribute to aviation history. Our aircraft delivers an extraordinary experience, inviting you to savor the magic of flight like never before. We are the world’s sole manufacturer of 1930s-era biplanes. Experience the legacy of aviation with WACO Aircraft, where history takes to the skies!
See More Details >>About Us A piece of aviation history reinterpreted for today! WACO Aircraft rebuilds classics sport biplanes from the 1930's that are absolutely suitable for everyday use – without losing the charm of the old 1930's aircraft. Get in, start the engine – and experience freedom. Join the world's preeminent manufacturer of 1930's sport biplanes and the only FAA approved producer worldwide. Position Overview Launch an exciting career with us and build the ultimate sense of adventure. . As a Sheet Metal Associate in aircraft manufacturing, you will be responsible for fabricating, assembling, and maintaining aircraft components made from sheet metal. Your role will involve using various tools, equipment, and materials to ensure the quality and precision of sheet metal parts while adhering to safety and regulatory standards. What you will do Sheet Metal Fabrication · Cut, bend, shape, and form sheet metal to meet design specifications using shears, brakes, presses, and other metalworking tools. · Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and work orders to accurately produce sheet metal parts. Assembly · Assemble sheet metal components into aircraft structures, ensuring proper fit and alignment. · Install fasteners, rivets, and other hardware to securely attach sheet metal parts. Quality Assurance · Inspect finished sheet metal parts for defects, such as cracks, dents, or imperfections, and make necessary adjustments or repairs. · Verify the accuracy of dimensions, angles, and tolerances to meet aircraft specifications. Safety and Compliance · Adhere to safety guidelines, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe handling of tools and materials. · Ensure compliance with aviation regulations and quality standards throughout the manufacturing process. Tool Maintenance: · Maintain and clean sheet metal tools and equipment, reporting any defects or malfunctions for repair or replacement. Collaboration · Work closely with engineers, supervisors, and other team members to troubleshoot issues and improve manufacturing processes. · Communicate effectively within the team and provide feedback for continuous improvement. Additional Duties: · Perform other duties as assigned by management or as necessary to meet the organization's needs. What we are looking for · High school diploma or equivalent. · Previous experience in sheet metal fabrication. · Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and blueprints. · Strong attention to detail and precision in work. · Knowledge of sheet metal materials and their characteristics. · Familiarity with a variety of metalworking tools and equipment. · Understanding of aviation regulations and safety protocols. · Excellent teamwork and communication skills. · Physical stamina and the ability to lift and maneuver heavy sheet metal parts. Preferred: · Vocational training in sheet metal fabrication is a plus. · Previous experience in sheet metal fabrication in aircraft manufacturing is preferred. What we have to offer: · Paid Time off (PTO) · Vacation Reward Program · 10 Paid Holidays · Medical Insurance after 30 days · Vision Insurance after 30 days · Dental Insurance after 30 days · 401(K) Company match up-to 5%. · Short Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance · Company Paid Life and A&D Insurance · Opportunity to be part of a dynamic and highly motivated work environment where you can develop your potential and launch an exciting career. · Development opportunities where your input makes a difference. · Uniforms provided. Job Type: Full-time, On-Site Job Function: Production Shift: 1st Shift Hours: 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM Overtime: Occasional Location: 15955 S. Airport Road, Battle Creek, MI 49015, USA Learn more about us: https://www.wacoaircraft.com/ WACO Aircraft Corporation - Home | Facebook WACO Aircraft Corporation (@WACOAircraft) / Twitter WACO Aircraft Corp: My Company | LinkedIn WACO Aircraft - Instagram Legal Note Waco Classic Aircraft is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. If you are a dedicated professional who is passionate about maintaining high-quality standards, we encourage you to apply for this position. Join our team and contribute to our commitment to excellence in product quality. Job Type: Full-time Pay: $20.00 per hour Benefits: • 401(k) • 401(k) 5% Match • 401(k) matching • Dental insurance • Employee assistance program • Health insurance • Health savings account • Life insurance • Paid time off • Vision insurance Work Location: In person
See More Details >>Benefits: • 401(k) • 401(k) matching • Dental insurance • Health insurance • Paid time off • Vision insurance About Freedom Motors USA Freedom Motors USA is a nationwide, family-owned and operated company, headquartered in Battle Creek, MI, and is the leading manufacturer and retailer of wheelchair-accessible vehicles with the widest-ranging product line in the United States. Founded in 1987, we focus on providing customized options for the unique needs of our customers. The Sheetmetal Manufacturing Manager is a key team member that will be responsible for maintaining high quality and safety standards on the wheelchair-accessible vehicle conversion parts that we produce. What you'll do: • Manage ingoing and outgoing parts. • Organize part inventory and reorder as needed. • Perform quality control on outgoing parts. • Communicate regularly with outside representatives. • Effectively manage the Parts team. What you'll need: • Supervisory experience and a strong background in manufacturing, particularly in metal fabrication processes like welding, cutting, and fabricating. • Organizational skills are a must, 5s preferred. • Ability to build and maintain relationships with outside vendors. • Ability to learn production specifications and applications as needed. • Proficient computer skills. CAD experience preferred. This job description is meant to provide an overview of the duties and responsibilities of this position. It is not intended to be an all inclusive listing. Employment Type: FULL_TIME
See More Details >>Becoming a sheet metal worker in Battle Creek, MI, typically begins with a structured apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships in the sheet metal trade last about three to five years, requiring approximately 8,000 hours of training under experienced professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with an average hourly wage of $21.23, translating to approximately $849.20 per week. In Battle Creek, MI, apprentices earn an average of $15.30 per hour, with an annual overtime average of $2,040. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the Sheet Metal Workers' National Training Fund help aspiring sheet metal workers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $56,000 annually for experienced professionals.
