Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, is one of the most respected names in the global aviation industry. Known for manufacturing iconic aircraft like the Black Hawk and Sea King helicopters, the company offers a wide range of career opportunities for professionals, tradespeople, and recent graduates. If you are looking for a stable career in aerospace, understanding how to navigate the Sikorsky hiring process is the first step toward success.
Understanding the Sikorsky and Lockheed Martin Relationship
It is important to know that Sikorsky was acquired by Lockheed Martin in 2015. Because of this, the hiring process, benefits, and job portal are integrated into the larger Lockheed Martin corporate structure. When you search for Sikorsky jobs, you will primarily use the Lockheed Martin careers website.
This integration means that employees at Sikorsky often have access to the resources and stability of a massive global defense contractor. However, the work remains focused on the specialized vertical flight technology that has defined Sikorsky for decades. Understanding this relationship helps you narrow your search and ensures you are looking in the right place for official listings.
Common Career Paths at Sikorsky
Sikorsky requires a diverse workforce to design, build, and maintain its advanced aircraft. While many people immediately think of pilots or aerospace engineers, the company employs professionals from many different backgrounds. Here are some of the most common career paths available.
Engineering and Technology
Engineering is the backbone of Sikorsky’s operations. The company consistently hires for roles in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, systems engineering, and software development. These teams work on everything from flight control systems to next-generation rotorcraft design.
Manufacturing and Skilled Trades
The physical assembly of helicopters requires highly skilled technicians and mechanics. Common roles in this sector include airframe and powerplant (A&P) mechanics, composite technicians, welders, and aircraft assemblers. These positions are often based on the factory floor and require specific certifications or vocational training.
Supply Chain and Logistics
Building complex aircraft requires thousands of parts from vendors around the world. Supply chain professionals at Sikorsky manage procurement, vendor relationships, and inventory control. This ensures that production lines remain active and that maintenance crews have the parts they need for repairs.
Business Operations and Finance
Like any large corporation, Sikorsky needs administrative support to function. This includes roles in human resources, finance, legal, marketing, and project management. These professionals ensure the company meets its budgetary goals and complies with international trade regulations.
Key Locations for Sikorsky Jobs
While Sikorsky has a global presence, most of its primary operations are concentrated in specific regions in the United States. Knowing these locations can help you determine if a relocation is necessary for your desired role.
- Stratford, Connecticut: This is the world headquarters of Sikorsky and its primary manufacturing facility. It hosts the largest concentration of engineering and administrative roles.
- West Palm Beach, Florida: This location is primarily focused on flight testing and development. It is a hub for test pilots, flight test engineers, and maintenance crews.
- Troy, Alabama: This facility focuses on manufacturing and sub-assembly for various military and commercial aircraft programs.
- Trumbull, Connecticut: Often used for administrative, engineering support, and customer service operations.
How to Search for Openings
To find current job openings, you should visit the official Lockheed Martin Careers portal. Using the search filters correctly will save you time and help you find the most relevant positions. Follow these steps to begin your search:
- Navigate to the Lockheed Martin careers website.
- Use the keyword search bar and type in “Sikorsky.” This will filter out jobs from other Lockheed Martin divisions like Missiles and Fire Control or Space.
- Filter by location if you are only interested in specific regions like Connecticut or Florida.
- Select your career area, such as “Engineering” or “Manufacturing,” to narrow down the results further.
- Save your search and set up email alerts so you are notified the moment a new Sikorsky job is posted.
The Application and Hiring Process
The hiring process at Sikorsky is thorough and can take several weeks or even months depending on the role. Because many positions involve defense contracts, the requirements are often more stringent than in other industries.
Submitting Your Application
Once you find a role that matches your skills, you will need to create a profile and upload your resume. Ensure your resume highlights specific technical skills and certifications mentioned in the job description. Lockheed Martin uses automated systems to scan resumes for keywords, so using the exact terminology from the posting is helpful.
The Interview Stage
If your application passes the initial screening, you will be invited for an interview. This may start with a phone screen from a recruiter, followed by a technical interview with a hiring manager. Many departments at Sikorsky use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Be prepared to give specific examples of how you handled challenges in previous roles.
Background Checks and Security Clearances
Many Sikorsky jobs require a U.S. government security clearance because of the sensitive nature of military aircraft. This involves a deep dive into your criminal record, financial history, and past employment. If the job description states that a clearance is required, you must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
Benefits of Working at Sikorsky
As part of Lockheed Martin, Sikorsky offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support long-term career growth and personal well-being. These benefits are a significant draw for many applicants.
- The 4/10 Work Schedule: Many Sikorsky facilities operate on a schedule where employees work four 10-hour days and have every Friday off. This provides a consistent three-day weekend.
- Tuition Reimbursement: The company frequently pays for employees to pursue advanced degrees in fields related to their work, such as an MBA or a Master’s in Engineering.
- Retirement Plans: Employees typically have access to a 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
- Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance are standard, along with access to on-site fitness centers in some locations.
Opportunities for Students and Early Careers
Sikorsky invests heavily in the next generation of aerospace professionals. They offer several programs for students and recent graduates to gain experience in the field.
The Internship Program allows college students to work on real-world projects during the summer or semester breaks. Many interns receive full-time job offers upon graduation. For recent graduates, the Leadership Development Programs (LDP) offer a rotational experience where you can spend several months in different departments to find the best fit for your skills.
Tips for a Successful Application
To stand out in a sea of applicants, you should focus on clarity and relevance. Here are a few final tips for your Sikorsky job search:
- Tailor your resume: Do not use a generic resume. Adjust your bullet points to reflect the specific requirements listed in the Sikorsky job posting.
- Highlight certifications: If you have an A&P license, a PMP certification, or specialized software knowledge (like CATIA or MATLAB), make sure it is prominently displayed.
- Network: Use professional platforms like LinkedIn to connect with current Sikorsky employees. They can sometimes provide insights into the team culture or the specific needs of a department.
- Be patient: The aerospace and defense industry moves carefully. It is normal for the process to take longer than a typical retail or office job.
Conclusion
Sikorsky jobs offer the chance to work on some of the most advanced technology in the world. By searching through the Lockheed Martin portal, tailoring your resume to specific roles, and preparing for a structured interview process, you can increase your chances of joining this historic aviation leader. Whether you are an experienced engineer or a skilled technician, there is likely a place for your expertise in the Sikorsky family.
For more information on career paths and job search strategies, explore our other articles on professional development and industry-specific hiring guides at SearchAndHelp.com.