Aircraft Structural Mechanic III
Lexington, Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky
Job Responsibilities
Description:
You will be an Aircraft Structural Mechanic (Level III). Our team is committed to delivering exceptional results, and we're looking for a highly skilled and experienced Aircraft Structural Mechanic (Level III) to join our team.
What You Will Be Doing
As an Aircraft Structural Mechanic (Level III), you will be responsible for:
• The Level III Aircraft Structural Mechanic provides expert level structural maintenance, modification, and repair for the H 6, H 60, and H 47 rotary wing fleets.
• This senior level role leads complex unscheduled repairs, oversees large scale depot modifications, and mentors Level II and Level I mechanics.
• The incumbent ensures all structural work meets or exceeds airworthiness standards while supporting the time critical missions of Special Operations.
Why Join Us
This position supports our Special Operations Forces – Global Logistics Support Services contract, which is the U.S. Special Operations Command's (USSOCOM) largest service contract vehicle providing a wide range of tailored logistics, maintenance, and sustainment services. Learn more here: SOF GLSS
Further Information About This Opportunity:
This position is in Lexington. Discover more about our Lexington, Kentucky location.
MUST BE A U.S. CITIZEN – This position is located at a facility that requires special access and is in direct support of a U.S. government contract that requires a company-sponsored clearance to start.
Basic Qualifications:
1. Aircraft Handling Expertise – Proven ability to safely jack, tow, and position H 6, H 60, and H 47 helicopters for structural work.
2. Documentation Proficiency – Independent navigation, recording, and validation of structural repairs in all required logs and maintenance systems.
3. Quality Assurance Experience – Demonstrated track record of verifying work against stringent airworthiness and safety standards.
4. Depot & Flight Line Experience – Competent performing structural repairs in both environments with a focus on high tempo operations.
5. Leadership Capability – Experience supervising multi disciplinary teams, allocating tasks, and ensuring safety compliance.
6. Security Clearance – Must possess or be eligible for Secret clearance (or higher) as required.
Advanced Structural Modifications
Direct high complexity modifications to primary structures (frames, bulkheads, wing spars, tail assemblies, landing gear attachments, doors, hatches). Approve riveting, fastening, bonding, composite, and precision welding processes.
Damage Assessment & Corrosion Control Leadership
Lead comprehensive inspections for damage, fatigue cracks, corrosion, and other structural defects. Develop and supervise corrective action plans and preventative corrosion programs.
Sheet Metal & Composite Fabrication Oversight
Supervise fabrication, installation, and replacement of sheet metal and composite panels, fairings, and structural components. Ensure compliance with engineering drawings, service bulletins, and technical orders.
Structural Inspection & Certification
Conduct and certify phase, isochronal, periodic, and special inspections. Identify early life limit concerns, issue engineering recommendations, and sign off on release to flight.
Technical Documentation & Work Package Management
Interpret and translate engineering drawings, repair schemes, and service bulletins into detailed work packages. Ensure accurate entry of all work in Maintenance Management System (MMS), Modification/Production Instruction (MPI) system, and associated logs.
Rigging, Alignment & Test Fit Coordination
Lead rigging and alignment of major airframe assemblies and control surfaces after repairs or modifications. Conduct functional test fits and coordinate with flight test teams when required.
Quality Assurance & Release Authority
Perform final QA checks, verify compliance with Airworthiness Authority (AWA) standards, and release aircraft for operational use. Act as the focal point for internal and external audit findings.
Depot & Flight Line Integration
Plan and execute structural repairs in both flight line and depot environments. Interface with depot shops, program managers, and engineering to schedule major repair blocks and ensure resource availability.
Mentorship, Supervision & Workforce Development
Train, mentor, and supervise Level II and Level I mechanics. Allocate work, conduct performance reviews, and develop competency based training plans.
Program & Project Support
Participate in project level planning for fleet wide structural upgrades, budget forecasting, and risk assessments. Provide technical input for acquisition and sustainment decisions.
Operational Flexibility & Deployment
Adapt to shift variations, rapid deployment, and travel to forward operating locations as mission needs dictate.
Continuous Improvement
Identify process improvements, develop best practice SOPs, and lead Kaizen events to enhance maintenance efficiency and safety.
Desired Skills:
Large Helicopter Structural Expertise
Extensive work on CH MH 47, UH MH 60, and MH 6 platforms; ability to transition seamlessly across airframes.
Advanced Structural Techniques
Mastery of precision sheet metal fabrication, high strength riveting, TIG/MIG welding, composite lay up, and structural bonding.
Leadership & Workforce Development
Proven ability to lead Level II and I mechanics, develop training curricula, and conduct performance assessments.
Engineering Coordination
Experience interfacing with design engineers, test engineers, and program managers on modification projects.
Project Management
Ability to develop work packages, schedule resources, and track budgetary constraints for large scale repairs.
Safety & Risk Management
Strong understanding of OSHA, AFI/AFMAN, and MIL STD safety requirements.
Certifications
FAA A&P license, DoD/USAF Aircraft Structural Certification, or equivalent military qualifications preferred.
Technical Training
Completion of Rotor Wing Structural Maintenance School (or equivalent) and advanced composite repair courses.
Security Clearance Statement: This position requires a government security clearance, you must be a US Citizen for consideration.
Clearance Level: Secret
Other Important Information You Should Know
Expression of Interest: By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.
Ability to Work Remotely: Onsite Full-time: The work associated with this position will be performed onsite at a designated Lockheed Martin facility.
Work Schedules: Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.
Schedule for this Position: 4x10 hour day, 3 days off per week
Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.
The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.
At Lockheed Martin, we use our passion for purposeful innovation to help keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. Our people are some of the greatest minds in the industry and truly make Lockheed Martin a great place to work.
With our employees as our priority, we provide diverse career opportunities designed to propel, develop, and boost agility. Our flexible schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable our employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work. We place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering an inclusive environment built upon integrity and corporate responsibility.
If this sounds like a culture you connect with, you’re invited to apply for this role. Or, if you are unsure whether your experience aligns with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to search on Lockheed Martin Jobs, and apply for roles that align with your qualifications.
Experience Level: Hourly/Non-Exempt
Business Unit: MISSILES AND FIRE CTRL (S0806)
Relocation Available: No
Career Area: Manufacturing
Type: Task Order/IDIQ
Shift: First
About
At Lockheed Martin, we apply our passion for purposeful innovation to keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges.
Mission-Focused Innovation: From aerospace to outer space to cyber space, you can solve the world's most complex challenges for our customers.
Foundational Values: Our culture of performance excellence, ethics, teamwork and inclusion is embedded in everything we do.
Diverse Career Opportunities with Meaningful Work: Grow your career and skills for life. Our technology-driven learning platforms and programs enable your development and agility.
Your Health, Your Wealth, Your Life: Our flexible schedules, competitive pay and comprehensive benefits enable you to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work.
Empowered to Be Your Best: Use your strengths to make a difference in the lives of one another, our customers, our communities and our planet.
Commitment to Sustainability: We foster innovation, integrity and security to preserve the environment, strengthen diverse communities and propel growth.
Here, the possibilities are endless because we offer:
- Flexible Schedules, dependent on role
- Levels: Student, Entry, Mid, Senior, Management
- Locations: Nationwide & OCONUS Positions
Qualifications
See what it takes to be a successful Lockheed Martin employee.
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Collaborative
There is no innovation without imagination. You bring new, different and exciting ideas to the table every day. You are committed to the success of your team.
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Curious
The ability to explore and drive new ideas. You think innovatively to come up with creative solutions to complex challenges.
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Goal-oriented
From planning and organizing to decision making, goal orientation produces impactful results. You set goals and strive to make things happen quickly and efficiently.
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Proactive
The ability to anticipate, plan and prepare for what lies ahead. You act rather than react to potential situations.
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Problem Solver
You work to tackle tough problems with complex solutions.
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Strategic
You observe, reflect and analyze processes to make more informed decisions.
Quote
“Before I came to Lockheed Martin, I never thought I’d get these opportunities. The benefits available and the company’s value culture make it an incredibly supportive place to work, and I’m grateful to work somewhere that wants me to succeed. I hope to have a long career here making an impact, and I know I’ll be supported in doing that every step of the way.”
Ryan J., Enterprise Operations
Benefits
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Healthcare
Medical, Dental and Vision coverage is available for employees who opt-in.
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401(k)/Retirement Plans
Our 401(k) plan features generous matching and company contributions.
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Professional Development
We support our employees through mentoring, internal & external educational programs, networking, skills enhancement and career-building programs.
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Maternity and Paternity Leave
Our generous parental leave policies support your journey into parenthood. When you return to work, our facilities offer mother's rooms to support your transition and work/life balance.
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Paid Time Off
We offer PTO, paid holidays and paid time off for jury duty and military obligations.
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Flex-time
Depending on the position, we offer flexible work schedules.
Together, Let's Change The World For The Better.
From green energy to aerospace, there are so many ways you can make a difference with us.
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Lexington — Kentucky
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