Aircraft Structure Assembler Salary 2025: $65,380 Median, but Jobs Shrinking
Aircraft structure, surfaces, rigging, and systems assemblers earned a median salary of $65,380 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average wage is $71,420, or roughly $31 an hour. Pay ranges from $47,310 at the 10th percentile to $107,500 at the 90th percentile. This career pays well above the all-occupation median, but the number of jobs is expected to shrink sharply over the next decade.
How much Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers earn
The national median annual wage for this occupation is $65,380. Half of assemblers earn between the 25th percentile ($57,580) and 75th percentile ($79,040). The top 10 percent make over $107,500. Pay varies significantly by industry and location.
Workers in aerospace product and parts manufacturing — the largest employer — tend to earn more than those in repair and maintenance. Experience, certifications, and the complexity of the aircraft systems assembled all influence salary.
Pay by state
Washington tops the list, paying aircraft structure assemblers an average of $110,470 — more than $50,000 above the national average. Pennsylvania follows at $81,680, then Connecticut ($78,630), Texas ($76,640), and Arizona ($73,930). These states host major aerospace manufacturing hubs or military bases.
At the low end, Oklahoma averages $49,070; Michigan, $47,230; and Arkansas, $46,290. Differences reflect cost of living, concentration of high-tech production, and union presence. If you're willing to relocate, the pay gap between lowest and highest states exceeds $64,000 a year.
How to become Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assembler
Most assemblers learn through on-the-job training or a 2-year technical degree in aviation maintenance or manufacturing technology. Employers typically prefer a high school diploma or equivalent, plus mechanical aptitude. Some community colleges and trade schools offer certificates in aircraft assembly that take 6 to 12 months.
The FAA does not license assemblers, but working on primary structure or safety-critical systems may require an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate if the job involves maintenance. Many new hires start as helpers or trainees and advance with experience. Soft skills like following blueprints, precise measurement, and teamwork are essential.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete a certificate or associate degree in aircraft assembly or a related field (optional but helpful).
- Apply for entry-level assembler or helper positions at aerospace firms or repair stations.
- Gain on-the-job training in riveting, drilling, and systems installation.
- Pursue an FAA A&P certificate if your role requires maintenance work.
- Consider apprenticeships through aerospace manufacturers or unions.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for aircraft structure assemblers will decline by 14.5 percent from 2024 to 2034 — a loss of about 4,930 jobs. Automation and more efficient manufacturing processes reduce the need for manual assembly. However, about 2,800 openings occur each year due to retirements and workers leaving the occupation.
"Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers" is a detailed occupation group. According to BLS, 34,020 people held these jobs in 2024. Aerospace manufacturing continues in the U.S., but the bulk of new hires will replace outgoing workers rather than expand the workforce.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for an aircraft structure assembler?
Entry-level assemblers typically earn around $47,310 (10th percentile). Starting pay varies by state and employer; beginners may start closer to $15–$18 per hour in lower-cost states.
What education do I need to become an aircraft structure assembler?
A high school diploma is the minimum. Many employers prefer or require a certificate or associate degree in aircraft assembly, manufacturing technology, or aviation maintenance. On-the-job training is standard.
Is this a growing career?
No — the BLS expects a 14.5 percent decline in employment from 2024 to 2034. However, about 2,800 new openings per year will arise from workers leaving the field.
Which state pays aircraft structure assemblers the most?
Washington pays the highest average annual wage at $110,470, followed by Pennsylvania ($81,680) and Connecticut ($78,630).
Do aircraft structure assemblers need an FAA license?
Not for most assembly jobs. However, an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate is needed if the work involves maintenance or repair of aircraft. Assembly of new aircraft typically does not require it.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers data.