AFP Machine Operator – Composites & Automation

Firefly Aerospace; United States; On-site; USD 34,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental and vision plans

Parental leave

Relocation benefits

Educational reimbursement

Short term disability

Flexible PTO

Job summary

Firefly Aerospace in the United States seeks an experienced Composite AFP Machine Operator to join our manufacturing team. You will configure and run Automated Fiber Placement equipment, loading composite materials with correct tension and alignment, while ensuring safety and quality.

You will inspect parts, perform routine maintenance, and work with engineers to optimize processes. Relies on strong attention to detail, teamwork, and timely delivery of results.

Qualifications

• Must operate AFP machines or CNC-controlled equipment with accuracy.
• Strong understanding of composite materials and their behavior in AFP processes.
• Maintain high-quality standards and attention to detail in production.
• Troubleshoot machine issues and perform basic maintenance.
• Manage time effectively to meet production schedules.
• Collaborate with engineers and colleagues to achieve goals.

Responsibilities

• Configure and prepare the AFP machine for production runs, ensuring proper alignment and tooling setup.
• Manage storage, preparation, and loading of composite materials with correct tension and alignment.
• Safely operate the AFP machine and monitor performance to maintain quality and efficiency.
• Inspect produced composite parts to verify conformity to specifications and standards.
• Perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot AFP machine issues with maintenance techs as needed.
• Seek opportunities to improve production processes, reduce waste, and increase efficiency.
• Maintain production records including process parameters, material usage, and machine performance data.
• Adhere to safety guidelines to ensure a safe working environment for all team members.

Skills

Machine operation

Composite materials knowledge

Quality assurance

Technical aptitude

Time management

Team player

Tools

Siemens 840D controllers

Job description

Firefly Aerospace in the United States seeks an experienced Composite AFP Machine Operator to join our manufacturing team. You will configure and run Automated Fiber Placement equipment, loading composite materials with correct tension and alignment, while ensuring safety and quality.

You will inspect parts, perform routine maintenance, and work with engineers to optimize processes. Relies on strong attention to detail, teamwork, and timely delivery of results.