What are the responsibilities and job description for the Drafter - Kit Assembly Instructions position at Van's Aircraft, Inc.?
About Van’s Aircraft
Van’s Aircraft is a leader in the design and manufacturing of kit-built aircraft, empowering aviation enthusiasts worldwide with innovative and high-quality solutions. We take pride in precision, clarity, and continuous improvement, ensuring every builder has the best possible experience assembling their aircraft.
About the Role
We are looking for a skilled Drafter – Kit Instructions to join our Prototype department. In this role, you will be responsible for developing clear, accurate, and user-friendly assembly instructions for our kit airplane builders. Working closely with engineers, designers, and prototype teams, you will transform complex technical processes into step-by-step guides that ensure builders can confidently assemble their aircraft. If you have a passion for aviation, strong technical writing skills, and a keen eye for detail, this role is for you.
Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept:
- Develop comprehensive assembly manuals for kitbuilt aircraft, ensuring instructions are clear, concise, and visually supported.
- Translate complex engineering concepts into easytofollow, stepbystep instructions using a combination of text, diagrams, and illustrations.
- Work closely with engineers and prototype teams to understand assembly procedures, capturing key insights for documentation.
- Collaborate with CAD drafters and illustrators to create highquality visuals that enhance comprehension for builders of varying experience levels.
- Test and refine instructions by gathering feedback from internal teams and customers, making continuous improvements.
- Ensure accuracy and consistency in all documentation, adhering to company standards and aviation industry best practices.
- Maintain a wellorganized library of documentation, including updates to manuals and revision tracking.
- Stay informed about aviation regulations and best practices to ensure documentation compliance and user safety.
What You’ll Bring to the Team:
- Technical Writing Expertise: Proven experience creating instructional materials, preferably in aviation, manufacturing, or a related field.
- Attention to Detail: Exceptional ability to break down complex assembly steps into precise, easytounderstand instructions.
- CAD & Illustration Collaboration: Experience working with CAD drawings and illustrations to support written instructions (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar software knowledge is a plus).
- Aviation or Mechanical Knowledge: Familiarity with aircraft construction, mechanical assembly, or related technical fields is highly preferred.
- Strong Communication Skills: Ability to work effectively with engineers, drafters, and prototype teams to capture technical details accurately.
- Education & Experience: Associate degree or higher in Technical Writing, Engineering, Aviation Maintenance, or a related field. Equivalent handson experience in technical writing or instructional development is also valued.
Work Environment:
- Work in an office setting within the Prototype department, with regular collaboration on the manufacturing floor.
- Use of computers, documentation tools, and CAD software for referencing and refining instructions.
- Engage with a dedicated team passionate about aviation and highquality kit aircraft assembly.
Join Us at Van’s Aircraft
This is your opportunity to shape the future of kit aircraft assembly by providing builders with the guidance they need to bring their aircraft to life. At Van’s Aircraft, your skills and creativity will directly impact the aviation community.
Apply Today!
Be a part of something bigger—help build the future of aviation, one instruction at a time.
About Van's Aircraft, Inc.
Van's Aircraft, founded in 1973 by Richard VanGrunsven, leads in designing and manufacturing high-performance kit aircraft. With a strong reputation for innovation and excellence, Van's is based at Oregon’s Aurora State Airport (KUAO) and is home to a dedicated team of about 110 employees. We are committed to improving our products to meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and performance. As Van's continues to grow, we’re expanding our capabilities and exploring new opportunities in aviation, creating exciting career potential. We value cross-departmental collaboration, providing visibility into how your role contributes to our collective success. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, holidays, health, dental, vision, life and short-term disability insurance, a 401K plan, and access to an employee flying club.