2nd Shift - Blade Fabricator - Job #1095

Join Enstrom Helicopter in Menominee, Michigan, just 50 minutes north of Green Bay. Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, the Menominee/Marinette area is an outdoor paradise. At Enstrom, you will be part of a close-knit team where your work is seen and valued. As a proud U.S. manufacturer of FAA certified rotorcraft, we build nearly 90% of each helicopter in house. Our team enjoys a clean, growth focused environment with a Monday through Friday schedule.

Position: Blade Fabricator – Tech II

Reports To: Director of Operations

Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt

Shift: 2nd, 4-10’s (2 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., 4 days per week)

Pay Range: $22.00 - $32.00 ($1.50 / hour 2nd shift premium)

BASIC WORKER FUNCTION:

Assembles and bonds helicopter rotor blades. Prepares blade parts, operates bonding fixtures and equipment, and ensures blades meet blueprints, shop orders, and specifications.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF TASKS:

• Fabricate blade parts following process instructions.
• Align and assemble blade components in bonding fixtures.
• Perform surface treatments like iridite processing on parts.
• Twist and route blade spars to specifications.
• Drill and fit main rotor blade tips.
• Assist with blade milling machine operations.
• Prepare parts for bonding and inspect for surface defects.
• Lay out bonding tape, clamp components, and set timers.
• Set bonding temperature and time after inspection approval.
• File blades to proper width and attach doublers, retention plates, and fittings.
• Install leading edge filler blocks, trim tabs, and rivets using fixtures.
• Balance and classify blades; add lead weights in tips if needed.
• Record blade weights and maintain documentation.
• Examine completed blades to meet specifications.
• Maintain machines, fixtures, and equipment.
• Train and guide other workers when needed.
• Observes all safety regulations.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of bonding agents, curing, temperature, and pressure processes.
• Able to operate blade shop equipment and bonding fixtures.
• Skilled at reading blueprints, shop orders, and specifications.
• Keep accurate production and inspection records.
• Proficient with drill press, routers, sanders, hand drills, arbor press, rivet shaver, and rivet gun.
• Able to use time controllers, potentiometers, and protractors.
• Apply basic shop math.
• Work independently and troubleshoot problems effectively.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Experience in blade fabrication, bonding, composites, or sheet metal manufacturing required.
• Able to perform blade bonding, assembly, and inspection independently.

Physical Requirements

• Stand for long periods.
• Lift up to 50 pounds.
• Perform repeated hand motions for fabrication and bonding.
• Bend, reach, and work in awkward or tight positions.
• See clearly to inspect surfaces, align parts, and read measurements.
• Wear required safety gear.
• Also must be able to meet personal tool requirements.