E01-C07 F-16 Structures Technician
Start Date: Immediate JHNA, CTSi, and EXPANSIA have come together to form a Defense Technology platform named Aether Aerospace focused on delivering high-impact technologies, technology-enabled services and advanced manufacturing solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense and related national security customers. Backed by Falfurrias Management Partners, the platform brings together deep domain expertise across Army, Navy, and Air Force and Space Force programs, digital engineering, systems integration, and specialized manufacturing capabilities.
The combined organization operates as a multi-entity aerospace and defense technology and tech-enabled services and manufacturing enterprise positioned for scalable growth, operational excellence, and long-term value creation.
OVERVIEW Full-time/Permanent Employee Location: Hollywood, MD Aether Aerospace has a contract to provide sustainment services for the VENOM Autonomy Kit (VAK) on six F-16C aircraft at Eglin AFB. The VAK was designed and installed by an Aether Aerospace team. The Maintenance Supervisor will lead and oversee avionics, electrical, and structural maintenance, repair, and inspection activities of the VAK components. The supervisor will direct a team of avionics and structural technicians, ensure adherence to technical standards, and collaborate with local USAF maintenance teams to maintain the aircraft in flying condition. This role requires extensive experience with military aircraft maintenance and a proven background supervising teams performing complex maintenance activities. The proposed salary range for this position is $120,000. There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, geographic location, education, and certifications.
RESPONSIBILITIES Inspect, maintain, and repair F‑16 airframe structures, including fuselage, wings, stabilizers, and related structural components.
Fabricate and install aircraft structural parts using sheet metal, composite materials, and advanced manufacturing techniques.
Interpret and utilize technical orders, engineering drawings, blueprints, and maintenance manuals.
Conduct aircraft structural modifications, Time Compliance Technical Orders (TCTOs), and depot-level repairs when authorized.
Use precision tools and equipment such as rivet guns, brake presses, drills, sanders, and composite curing equipment.
Maintain accurate records in maintenance information systems and ensure compliance with Air Force safety, quality assurance, and documentation standards.
Collaborate with crew chiefs, avionics, propulsion, and armament specialists to support integrated aircraft maintenance activities.
Provide mentoring and on-the-job training to junior technicians when required.
KEY QUALIFICATIONS Clearance: Ability to obtain Secret clearance.
Education and Years of Experience: A HS diploma or equivalent and 3 years performing maintenance and installations on military aircraft, including US Air Force F-16
Completion of USAF Aircraft Structural Maintenance (3-level) technical training or equivalent civilian experience.
Demonstrated experience with sheet metal fabrication, composite repair, and structural troubleshooting.
Ability to read and interpret technical data, engineering drawings, and structural repair manuals.
Working knowledge of maintenance documentation systems (GO81, IMDS, or equivalent).
Ability to obtain and maintain appropriate security clearance.
Physical ability to lift equipment, work in confined spaces, and operate in flight line environments.
PREFERRED ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS 5 or more years of experience performing structural maintenance on F‑16 aircraft.
FAA Airframe License or equivalent industry certification.
Experience with depot-level or modification programs.
Proficiency with advanced composite repair techniques and non-destructive inspection methods.
Aether Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.