Apprentice Assembler

Job Title

Who are we?

As an aircraft manufacturer, industrialist, industrial service provider and logistician, Daher currently has approximately 14,500 employees and achieved a revenue of 1.9 billion euros in 2025. With its family ownership, Daher has been focused on innovation since its creation in 1863. With locations in 15 countries across Europe, North America and Asia, Daher designs and develops value-added solutions for its aeronautical and industrial customers and partners

Daher’s Sandpoint, Idaho site is a key U.S. aircraft manufacturing and support location specializing in the hand built production of the Kodiak aircraft family. The facility supports final assembly, painting, inspection, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) activities for the Kodiak 100 and Kodiak 900, serving commercial, multi mission, and public service customers worldwide. In addition to manufacturing, the site provides comprehensive aircraft maintenance, technical support, and quality oversight, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations and customer requirements, while continuing to expand production capabilities and reinforcing its role as a center of excellence for rugged, mission ready turboprop aircraft within Daher’s global network.

Job Summary:

Aircraft Assemblers uphold Kodiak Aircraft's values and mission while contributing to the safe, efficient production of world-class aircraft. In this role, team members perform essential assembly operations, including assembling, fastening, fitting, and installing aircraft components and systems on the production line while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and workmanship. We are seeking both experienced Aircraft Assemblers and entry-level Apprentice Aircraft Assemblers. Experienced assemblers bring prior manufacturing, mechanical, or aerospace assembly experience and are expected to perform production tasks with increasing levels of independence and technical proficiency.

The Apprentice Aircraft Assembler position is an entry-level opportunity designed for individuals who are eager to start a career in aerospace manufacturing. Apprentices begin at $23.00 per hour and participate in a comprehensive 6-week hands-on training program focused on building foundational aircraft assembly skills, tool usage, blueprint interpretation, safety practices, quality standards, and production processes. Upon successful completion of the program, apprentices transition to the production floor equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute as valued members of the manufacturing team.

Primary Role and Responsibilities:

• Read and interpret engineering drawings, work instructions, specifications, and blueprints.
• Assemble, fit, install, and connect aircraft parts, components, and assemblies using hand and power tools.
• Learn and apply aircraft assembly techniques, including drilling, fastening, and solid rivet installation.
• Inspect completed work for fit, alignment, quality, and compliance using measuring and testing equipment.
• Perform assembly and installation work involving aircraft structures, electrical systems, plumbing, flight controls, and hardware.
• Assist with the assembly of major structures and installation of subassemblies, including fuselage panels, bulkheads, rudders, flaps, and elevators.
• Accurately complete production, quality, and traceability documentation.
• Follow written and verbal instructions while meeting safety, quality, and production requirements.
• Perform all work in accordance with FAA regulations, company procedures, engineering specifications, and quality standards.
• Maintain compliance with applicable safety, regulatory, and airworthiness requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, utilizing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Communicate effectively, work collaboratively with team members, and support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Demonstrate professionalism, dependability, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.

What you need to have:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Proficient in the use of hand and power tools.
• Basic computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Basic math skills, including the ability to add, subtract, multiply, divide, calculate fractions and decimals, and perform measurements accurately.
• Ability to read measuring devices, scales, rulers, calipers, and other precision instruments.
• Ability to read and interpret work instructions, engineering drawings, specifications, and blueprints.
• Ability to perform detailed work with a high degree of accuracy and quality.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and adapt to changing production priorities.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while meeting production schedules.
• Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, reach, kneel, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds regularly and heavier weights with assistance.

Preferred:

• 1-3 years of experience in aircraft assembly, manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, construction, or a related technical field.
• Understanding of general aviation manufacturing processes and aircraft assembly techniques.
• Experience reading and interpreting engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical documentation.
• Experience with drilling, riveting, fastening, sealing, and structural assembly.
• Ability to interpret dimensions, tolerances, and specifications from engineering drawings and work instructions.
• Familiarity with measurement equipment, precision tools, and quality inspection processes.
• Experience working within FAA-regulated, AS9100, ISO, or other quality-controlled manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of aircraft structures, mechanical systems, electrical systems, or flight controls.
• Experience using ERP, manufacturing, or production tracking systems.
• Vocational training, trade school coursework, or technical certifications related to manufacturing, aviation, or mechanics.

Apprentice Aircraft Assembler Qualifications:

• Previous aircraft assembly experience is not required.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn aircraft manufacturing skills.
• Ability to successfully complete the 6-week hands-on training program.
• Commitment to maintaining safety, quality, attendance, and performance standards.
• Ability to learn and apply assembly techniques, tool usage, blueprint interpretation, and FAA-compliant manufacturing practices.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to receive coaching and feedback.
• Successful apprentices may be considered for placement into an Aircraft Assembler position upon completion of the training program.

Information related to the position:

• The compensation range for this position is $23.00 to $28.00 per hour, plus eligibility for an annual target bonus.
• The above pay range represents a general guideline; however, Daher considers a number of factors when determining compensation offers, including the scope and responsibilities of the position, as well as the candidate's experience, skills, qualifications, and current market conditions.
• At Daher, your total rewards package is more than just your hourly pay. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan with company match, Life Insurance, Short- and Long-Term Disability coverage, Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, overtime opportunities, and more. Eligible employees may also participate in company-supported vanpool transportation from Bonners Ferry, Coeur d'Alene, and Priest River to the Sandpoint facility, subject to route availability and participation requirements.

Your next opportunity starts here - here are the next steps:

• Review of your application
• An initial conversation with a recruiter
• One or more interviews depending on the position, with the relevant team members and manager(s)
• After the interviews, constructive feedback regardless of the outcome

All applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, national origin, ancestry, physical/mental disability, medical condition, military/veteran status, genetic information, marital status, ethnicity, alienage, or any other protected classification, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. By completing an application with Daher, you are seeking to join a team of hardworking professionals dedicated to consistently delivering outstanding service to our customers and contributing to the financial success of the organization, its clients, and its employees. Equal access to programs, services, and employment is available to all qualified persons. Those applicants requiring accommodation to complete the application and/or interview process should contact an HR representative.

Daher complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as amended by the ADA Amendments Act, and all applicable state or local law.