Advanced Composites Technician

University of Dayton School of Engineering; Dayton (OH); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Dayton Research Institute seeks an Advanced Composites Technician for their Advanced Composites Group. This senior-level role involves lab management, supervising staff, and executing tests on advanced composite materials. Ideal candidates will possess hands-on experience and knowledge in aerospace technologies.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years in a mechanical testing lab.
• Proficiency in mechanical assembly and fabrication.
• Familiarity with ASTM composite test standards.

Responsibilities

• Manage composite materials testing labs.
• Supervise technical staff.
• Execute mechanical and environmental testing.

Skills

Mechanical assembly

Fabrication

Use of lab tools

Organizational skills

Interpersonal communication

Education

Associate degree in Mechanical or Electro-Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Position Summary

The University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) is seeking an Advanced Composites Technician to join our Advanced Composites Group within the Structures and Materials Engineering Division. This senior-level role involves managing composite materials testing labs, supervising technical staff, and executing mechanical and environmental testing of advanced composite materials.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to work with cutting-edge aerospace and defense technologies in a collaborative and fast-paced research environment. The ideal candidate will be hands-on, detail-oriented, and capable of balancing lab management responsibilities with technical execution.

Core Duties

1. Fabricate and QC composite test specimens
2. Operate and maintain Instron and MTS test systems
3. Develop and run test methods using Bluehill Universal and MTS Testworks 4
4. Assemble and maintain high-pressure (3000 psi) hydraulic and compressed air systems
5. Calibrate and troubleshoot test instrumentation (strain gages, LVDTs, extensometers)
6. Implement and monitor lab safety, quality, and scheduling practices
7. Support lab documentation and reporting in accordance with ISO 9001:2015 standards

Minimum Qualifications

T3

1. Associate degree in Mechanical or Electro-Mechanical Engineering or similar
2. Minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in a mechanical testing lab
3. Proficiency in mechanical assembly, fabrication, and use of lab tools
4. Basic knowledge of electrical signals and electromechanical troubleshooting
5. Familiarity with ASTM composite test standards
6. Working knowledge of algebra, trigonometry, and unit conversions
7. Skilled with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
8. Strong organizational and interpersonal communication skills
9. Due to the requirements of our research contracts with the U.S. federal government, candidates must be U.S. citizens

Candidates for a T4 must meet all T3 minimum qualifications in addition to:

1. 12+ years of relevant experience
2. Leadership or supervision of technical staff
3. Advanced experience in composite layup, machining, and testing
4. Extensive experience with data acquisition systems and instrumentation
5. Strong familiarity with industry standards and testing best practices

Preferred Qualifications

While not everyone may possess all of the preferred qualifications, the ideal candidate will bring many of the following:

1. 10+ years of experience in composites or testing laboratories
2. C-SCAN NDE Level 1 or 2 certification
3. Experience with ISO 9001:2015, NADCAP, or A2LA quality systems
4. Data reduction and analysis expertise
5. Basic machine shop skills, tool and jig design experience
6. Advanced troubleshooting of electromechanical systems

Special Instructions to Applicants: To apply, please submit a cover letter addressing each minimum qualification and any applicable preferred qualifications that you meet.

Closing Statement:

Informed by its Catholic and Marianist mission, the University is committed to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We seek to increase diversity, achieve equitable outcomes, and model inclusion across our campus community. As an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer, we do not discriminate against minorities, women, protected veterans, individuals with disabilities, or on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity.