How to Be Aerospace Material Handler - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 3, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Aerospace material handlers play an important role in the aerospace industry. They are responsible for receiving, storing, and distributing aircraft and aerospace parts, components, and materials. Their efforts help ensure that production lines receive the necessary parts on time, allowing for maximum efficiency.

their work is vital to the safety and reliability of aerospace products and services. As a result of the material handlers job, aircraft can be built and repaired faster, allowing for better customer service and greater profits for the aerospace industry. their work helps prevent materials from becoming damaged or lost, reducing waste and maximizing resources.

aerospace material handlers are important for the success of the industry and for the safety of those who use its products.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Many employers prefer to hire Aerospace Material Handlers who have completed a secondary education.
Take courses in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Understanding the principles behind these subjects is essential for success as an Aerospace Material Handler.
Consider obtaining a degree in engineering or materials science. While not required, a degree in these fields will certainly make you more attractive to potential employers.
Apply for entry-level positions in the aerospace industry. Many companies offer apprenticeship programs or internships for those interested in becoming an Aerospace Material Handler.
Gain experience. Once you have obtained an entry-level position, take advantage of any training opportunities available.
Become certified by the National Institute for Aerospace Materials Handlers (NIAMH). This certification is widely recognized and may be required by some employers.
Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the aerospace industry. Keeping abreast of changes in technology and materials can help you stay competitive in the job market.

Aerospace material handling is a crucial process in the aerospace industry, as it involves the reliable and efficient movement of materials from one place to another. Proper material handling helps ensure quality control and accurate stock records, while also reducing the potential for costly accidents and delays. To ensure reliable and efficient material handling, it is important to create a system that is well organized and easy to use.

This includes creating an inventory system that uses barcode scanners and other tools to quickly track materials, and setting up clear pathways for transporting materials within the facility. Investing in quality material handling equipment, such as pallet jacks and forklifts, is also essential for ensuring safe and efficient operations. By implementing these steps, aerospace companies can create a system of reliable and efficient material handling that helps ensure safety, accuracy, and quality control.

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Job Description

Manage and maintain inventory of aerospace components and materials.
Move aerospace components and materials between warehouses, production lines, and staging areas.
Ensure that all incoming and outgoing aerospace materials are properly labeled, identified, and tracked.
Load and unload trucks as needed.
Operate material handling equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and hoists.
Inspect incoming shipments for accuracy and damage.
Maintain accurate records of all incoming and outgoing shipments.
Follow safety guidelines while operating material handling equipment.
Work with other departments to coordinate the timely delivery of aerospace components and materials.
Assist with other tasks as needed.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of proper safety protocols when handling materials.
Ability to read and understand instructions and technical documents.
Proficiency in operating material handling equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks.
Proficiency in packing and shipping materials according to established standards.
Ability to accurately count, record, and track materials.
Knowledge of the proper handling and storage of hazardous materials.
Ability to lift and carry heavy loads.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
High attention to detail and accuracy.
Good organizational skills.

Aerospace Material Handler is a critical role in the aerospace industry as they are responsible for ensuring the accuracy and safety of materials used in the production of aircraft. To be successful in this role, it is essential to possess certain skills such as strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively with others. Organizational skills are essential in order to correctly store, track, and manage materials, and to ensure that materials are available when needed.

Attention to detail is also important because a single mistake in the handling of materials can cause significant delays or even safety issues. Finally, the ability to work effectively with others is essential, as Aerospace Material Handlers need to collaborate with other departments, such as Engineering and Quality Assurance, to ensure that all materials are safely handled and that aircraft are produced with the highest quality. Without the right skills, an Aerospace Material Handler will not be able to effectively handle the materials, which could lead to costly delays and safety issues.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with aerospace materials and tools?
Describe a time when you had to adjust to a new workflow or process quickly.
How do you stay organized and handle multiple tasks at the same time?
What safety procedures have you implemented in previous positions?
How do you prioritize tasks when there are conflicting deadlines?
How do you handle working with challenging clients or colleagues?
How do you ensure accuracy when handling aerospace materials?
What strategies do you use to stay motivated in a repetitive job?
What is your experience with inventory management and tracking systems?
How would you identify and report any damaged or defective aerospace materials?

Common Tools in Industry

Forklift. A vehicle with a pronged device in the front used for lifting and moving heavy objects. (eg: used to move cargo containers in an aircraft hanger).
Pallet Jack. A mechanical device with a platform on top used to move large and heavy objects. (eg: used to move and stack pallets of materials in an aircraft hanger).
Hand Truck. A two-wheeled cart with a handle used for transporting goods. (eg: used to move boxes of parts around an aircraft hanger).
Cargo Net. A large netting used to secure and transport large objects like containers and boxes. (eg: used to secure and transport cargo containers onto airplanes).
Handheld Scanner. A device used to scan barcodes and RFID tags. (eg: used to track inventory and shipments in an aircraft hanger).
Hoist. A mechanical device used to lift and move heavy objects. (eg: used to move engine parts between aircraft during maintenance).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW)
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences (ICAS)
Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA)

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Common Important Terms

Aerospace Manufacturing. The process of designing and constructing components and systems for use in the aerospace industry.
Aerospace Quality Assurance. A specialized field that ensures that aerospace components and systems meet the highest quality standards.
Hazardous Materials Handling. The process of safely moving, storing, and disposing of hazardous materials found in the aerospace industry.
Tooling and Equipment Maintenance. The maintenance and repair of tools and equipment used in aerospace manufacturing.
Logistics Management. The management and coordination of activities involved in the storage, movement, and delivery of materials used in aerospace manufacturing.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). A set of detailed instructions or guidelines used to ensure that all activities in an aerospace manufacturing facility are conducted safely and efficiently.
Aerospace Regulations. Rules, regulations, and guidelines designed to ensure the safe operation of aircraft, components, and systems in the aerospace industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Aerospace Material Handler?

An Aerospace Material Handler is a professional responsible for managing, organizing, and transporting the materials, parts, and equipment used in the aerospace and aviation industry.

What qualifications are needed to become an Aerospace Material Handler?

To become an Aerospace Material Handler, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, plus specialized training and/or experience in material handling and logistics, as well as familiarity with aerospace industry-specific procedures and regulations.

What kind of job duties does an Aerospace Material Handler perform?

The job duties of an Aerospace Material Handler include receiving, inspecting, storing, and delivering materials, parts, and equipment; preparing orders for shipment; operating warehouse equipment; maintaining inventory accuracy; and ensuring compliance with safety protocols.

What kind of working conditions can Aerospace Material Handlers expect?

Aerospace Material Handlers typically work in warehouses or other indoor settings. They may also be required to travel to off-site locations to pick up or deliver materials. The job requires standing, lifting, and bending for extended periods of time.

How much do Aerospace Material Handlers typically earn?

According to PayScale, the average salary for an Aerospace Material Handler is $16.49 per hour. Salaries can range from $13.23 to $20.44 per hour, depending on experience and location.