Sheet Metal Shop Technician

Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage. About The Role: We are seeking a Sheet Metal Shop Technician to support precision fabrication of complex, tight-tolerance flight hardware. In this role, you will set up, operate, and maintain advanced sheet metal cutting and forming equipment to produce components that meet rigorous aerospace-quality standards.    This is a hands-on, high-impact position where craftsmanship, attention to detail, and process discipline are essential. As a senior member of the fabrication team, you’ll take ownership of your equipment, mentor junior operators, and collaborate closely with manufacturing and engineering to continuously improve fabrication methods and product quality. Responsibilities • Set up, operate, and maintain sheet metal fabrication equipment including laser cutters, press brakes, rollers, English wheels, shrinker-stretchers, and related forming tools. • Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and flat patterns to ensure all fabricated components meet dimensional and quality requirements. • Perform precision measurement and inspection using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, thread gauges, and radius gauges to verify conformance. • Work closely with manufacturing and design engineers to develop and refine fabrication processes for complex, tight-tolerance flight hardware. • Execute basic assembly operations, including drilling, riveting, and fastening of metallic structures. • Perform preventive maintenance and troubleshooting on shop equipment to ensure peak performance and minimize downtime. • Support and train operators on safe and efficient machine setup, operation, and best practices. • Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-compliant workspace, supporting continuous improvement initiatives across the shop. • Contribute feedback to improve work instructions, process documentation, and tooling designs. Requirements: • High school diploma or equivalency certificate required; technical training or trade certification in sheet metal fabrication preferred. • 3+ years of experience operating and maintaining machinery in a precision manufacturing or aerospace fabrication environment. • Demonstrated ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and work instructions. • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills with attention to precision and quality. • Proficient in the safe operation of sheet metal forming, cutting, and finishing equipment. • Ability to work independently and take ownership of work from setup through inspection. • Strong communication and teamwork skills; able to collaborate effectively with engineers, machinists, and other technicians. • Physically capable of lifting up to 50 lbs, standing for extended periods, and working in varied physical positions (bending, kneeling, crawling). • Willingness to work overtime or weekends as needed to meet production goals. Preferred Skills and Experience • Experience fabricating flight hardware or aerospace-grade sheet metal components in a high-mix, low-volume production environment. • Proficiency in CAD/CAM or flat pattern software (Teamcenter, NX, TruTops Boost, IGEMS, or equivalent). • Familiarity with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and execution to work instructions or travelers. • Working knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5) and precision measurement techniques. • Experience developing or improving in-house fabrication processes for new or complex hardware. • Understanding of Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement practices. Additional Requirements • Must be willing to be hands-on in a production environment daily. • Ability to follow detailed technical processes and maintain consistent output under tight deadlines. • Must be comfortable working in an environment with moderate noise and frequent tool use. The salary range listed for this role is intended as a general guideline. Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including role scope and responsibilities, relevant experience, education and training, key skills, market data, and business needs. At Hermeus, compensation is only one part of our total rewards package. We offer competitive pay, equity, and a range of benefits designed to support our team. Benefits: Health & Wellness: 100% employer-paid healthcare and pet insurance Financial: Competitive pay, stock options, 401(k) retirement plan, and potential year-end bonuses Time Off: Paid parental leave, 12 federal holidays, unlimited PTO for exempt employees, and generous accrued PTO for non-exempt employees Office Perks: Weekly paid office lunches and fully stocked breakrooms   U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS  The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending.    EQUAL OPPORTUNITY Hermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.