AFP Operator I

Firefly Aerospace; Bertram (TX); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental and vision plans

Educational reimbursement

Relocation benefits

Flexible PTO options

Parental leave

Short term disability

Job summary

Firefly Aerospace is seeking an AFP Machine Operator in Texas to configure and operate an Automated Fiber Placement machine for aerospace composite parts. You will handle materials, ensure proper alignment, and uphold strict quality control and safety standards.

Key duties include inspecting finished parts, performing routine maintenance with the help of technicians, and recording process data. You will contribute to waste reduction and throughput improvements in a dynamic team setting.

Qualifications

• Experience operating Automated Fiber Placement Machines or CNC-equipped equipment.
• Knowledge of composite materials properties and behavior during AFP.
• Strong attention to detail and quality.
• Ability to troubleshoot machine issues and perform routine maintenance.
• Ability to manage time and meet production schedules.

Responsibilities

• Configure and prepare the AFP machine for production runs, ensuring proper alignment and tooling setup.
• Manage the storage, preparation, and loading of composite materials with correct tension and alignment.
• Safely operate the AFP machine and adjust to maintain quality and efficiency.
• Conduct regular inspections of produced parts to verify conformity to specifications.
• Perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot with maintenance technicians to minimize downtime.
• Maintain accurate production records and adhere to safety guidelines.

Skills

Machine operation

Composite materials knowledge

Quality assurance

Technical aptitude

Time management

Team player

Job description

ABOUT FIREFLY AEROSPACEFirefly Aerospace is a space and defense technology company that enables our world to launch, land, and operate in space – anywhere, anytime. As the partner of choice for critical space missions, Firefly is the only commercial company to launch a satellite to orbit with 24-hour notice and the only company to achieve a successful Moon landing. Our launch vehicles, lunar landers, and orbital vehicles provide government and commercial customers with full mission services from low Earth orbit to the Moon and beyond. Headquartered in north Austin, Texas, Firefly is looking for passionate, hardworking innovators to join our team and help fuel our successful trajectory into space.RESPONSIBILITIESConfigure and prepare the Automated Fiber Placement Machine for production runs, ensuring proper alignment, calibration, and tooling setup.Manage the storage, preparation, and loading of composite materials, ensuring correct tension and alignment for optimal production results.Safely operate the AFP Machine, monitor its performance, and make necessary adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency throughout the production process.Conduct regular inspections of the produced composite parts to verify conformity to specifications and standards, making adjustments as needed to meet quality requirements.Perform routine maintenance tasks and troubleshoot issues with the AFP Machine, collaborating with maintenance technicians when necessary to minimize downtime.Continuously seek opportunities to improve production processes, reduce waste, and increase machine efficiency without compromising product quality.Maintain accurate production records, including process parameters, material usage, and machine performance data.Adhere to all safety guidelines and protocols to ensure a safe working environment for yourself and team members.Required SkillsMachine Operation: Demonstrated experience in operating Automated Fiber Placement Machines or similar CNC-controlled manufacturing equipment.Composite Materials Knowledge: Proficient understanding of composite materials, their properties, and how they behave during the AFP process.Quality Assurance: Strong attention to detail and a track record of maintaining high-quality standards in production processes.Technical Aptitude: Ability to troubleshoot machine issues, perform routine maintenance, and make minor adjustments to optimize production efficiency.Time Management: Effective time management skills to meet production schedules and deliver on-time results.Team Player: Collaborative mindset, working well within a team environment and communicating effectively with engineers and colleagues.DesiredComposites Manufacturing Experience: Prior experience working with composites manufacturing processes, such as layup, curing, or composite assembly.Robotics Knowledge: Familiarity with robotic systems and automation, as AFP Machines often incorporate robotic arms for precision placement.Process Improvement: Proven track record of implementing process improvements to enhance productivity and quality in manufacturing operations.Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and suggest data-driven improvements to the manufacturing process.Certifications: Any relevant certifications in composites manufacturing, CNC operation, or machine programming would be a plus.Controls: Experience utilizing Siemens 840D controllers a plus.Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles, parental leave, relocation benefits, educational reimbursement, short term disability, and flexible PTO options.To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.Firefly Aerospace, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firefly is governed based on merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.