Aviation Machinist – C-130 Specialist

Calista Corporation • Hurlburt Field, FL

4d • Onsite

About The Position

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.

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.

Nice To Haves

• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Manufacture replacement parts, bushings, sleeves, and specialized tooling for the C-130 aircraft, often working from blueprints, engineering drawings, damaged samples, or CAD files.
• Read and interpret complex technical manuals, engineering drawings, structural repair manuals (SRM), and blueprints specific to the C-130 platform.
• 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.
• Perform heat treatment of fabricated parts using heat treatment ovens and conduct Rockwell Hardness Testing IAW ASTM / AWS standards and USAF Technical Orders.
• Utilize precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, gauges) to ensure fabricated and repaired parts meet exact dimensional tolerances and structural specifications.
• Collaborate closely with aircraft mechanics and structural technicians during Letter Check maintenance on the C-130.
• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: High school or GED