Manufacturing Technician 1 (Composite)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Prepare molds, tools, and work surfaces for composite layup operations in accordance with approved manufacturing instructions. Clean tooling and apply approved mold-release agents following established procedures and applicable safety requirements. Handle, cut, position, and apply composite materials, including prepreg fabrics, adhesives, core materials, and other layup materials. Perform composite layup operations according to approved ply schedules, fiber orientations, and manufacturing instructions. Use approved hand tools, rollers, squeegees, and heat guns to position and consolidate composite materials and remove trapped air. Cut and trim composite materials using scissors, knives, and other approved tools without damaging molds or tooling. Prepare and apply vacuum bagging materials, including release films, breather materials, sealant tape, and vacuum bags, according to established procedures. Perform required vacuum bag leak checks and report leaks or other abnormalities to the Lead or Manager. Assist with preparing completed layups and vacuum-bagged parts for transfer to autoclave or oven curing operations. Read and follow production travelers, build manuals, diagrams, ply schedules, and applicable manufacturing instructions. Perform basic measurements, material handling, and production calculations as required by established procedures. Monitor and document material usage, freezer out-time, and other required production information. Perform required visual and process checks to identify potential defects, material irregularities, or nonconforming conditions. Promptly notify the Lead or Manager of suspected defects, process deviations, material concerns, or other production issues. Complete required production travelers, inspection records, and related documentation accurately. Use hand tools and production equipment safely and appropriately. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with company safety and manufacturing standards. Identify opportunities for process improvement and communicate observations to the Lead or Manager. Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or GED, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and work experience. Minimum: 0–1 years of manufacturing or related hands-on work experience. Previous experience is preferred but not required.

Preferred Qualifications: Two or more years of relevant manufacturing or hands-on experience, particularly in aerospace composites, composite layup, industrial assembly, fabrication, or other precision manufacturing environments. Familiarity with composite materials, including prepreg fabrics, adhesives, core materials, and reinforcement materials. Experience with composite layup, vacuum bagging, mold preparation, or related manufacturing processes. Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing practices and quality requirements. Experience reading engineering drawings, manufacturing instructions, or production travelers. Experience using hand tools, measuring equipment, or precision assembly tools. Vocational training, apprenticeship, or related technical education in manufacturing, fabrication, or industrial operations. Familiarity with Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement principles. Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus.

Safety, Quality, and Compliance: Follow all company safety policies, established work procedures, and applicable equipment safety requirements. Properly handle chemicals, resins, adhesives, and composite materials in accordance with applicable Safety Data Sheets and company procedures. Follow established requirements for material handling, storage, traceability, and contamination prevention. Report unsafe conditions, suspected nonconforming products, process abnormalities, and potential compliance concerns promptly. Maintain the confidentiality and security of company and customer information. Cooperate with applicable safety, quality, and compliance investigations.

Benefits: At Applied Composites, we recognize how important your career and benefits are to you and your family. We offer a full suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability coverage, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, basic and supplemental life insurance, employee assistance plan, retirement savings and matching, tuition reimbursement and other developmental opportunities. We are committed to supporting the way you live and work. AC is an Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled - Affirmative Action Employer. This position requires the use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. "Green Card Holder"), Political Asylee, or Refugee.