Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) Manufacturing Technician

AST SpaceMobile; Midland (TX); On-site; USD 30,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a detail-oriented CFRP Manufacturing Technician to support aerospace composite production. The role focuses on Toray prepregs, CNC routing, bonding prep, and autoclave operations.

You will set up equipment, run cure cycles, perform in-process inspections, and document process parameters while collaborating with engineers to troubleshoot and improve processes. A strong background in aerospace composites and the ability to read engineering drawings are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of hands-on composite manufacturing in aerospace.
• Proficiency with Toray prepregs and layup techniques.
• Experience operating CNC routers and CAM interfaces.
• Knowledge of bonding prep and adhesive handling.
• Familiarity with autoclave operations and curing processes.
• Ability to read technical drawings and specs.

Responsibilities

• Perform CFRP layups using Toray prepregs per instructions.
• Operate CNC routers for trimming and machining.
• Prepare bonding surfaces and apply adhesives.
• Setup and monitor autoclaves, cure cycles, document parameters.
• Vacuum bagging and thermocouple placement during curing.
• Assist with equipment installation and startup trials.
• Conduct in-process inspections and maintain production records.
• Collaborate with engineers to troubleshoot and improve processes.

Skills

CFRP layups

Attention to detail

Collaboration

Problem solving

Manual dexterity

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical certification or associate degree in manufacturing/aerospace or related field

Tools

CNC routers

CAM software

Measurement tools (calipers, micrometers)

Machine interfaces

Job description

AST SpaceMobile and our global partners are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network to be accessible by standard smartphones. Called SpaceMobile, this ultra-powerful network is being designed to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet – on land, at sea and in flight.

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented, hands-on Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) Manufacturing Technician to support the production of advanced composite components for aerospace applications. The ideal candidate has experience with Toray prepreg materials, CNC routing, bonding preparation, autoclave operations, and composite curing processes. This role also includes supporting new facility startup activities, such as equipment installation, setup, and early process trials.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform CFRP layups using Toray prepreg materials according to work instructions and engineering drawings.
• Operate and maintain CNC routers for trimming, drilling, and machining composite components.
• Conduct bonding preparation including cleaning, abrading, masking, and adhesive application.
• Set up and operate autoclaves and ovens; monitor cure cycles and document process parameters.
• Perform composite curing operations including vacuum bagging, thermocouple placement, and pressure/temperature monitoring.
• Assist with equipment installation, calibration, and setup during facility startup and expansion.
• Perform in-process inspections to ensure part quality and conformance to specifications.
• Maintain accurate production records, logs, and documentation.
• Collaborate with engineers and supervisors to troubleshoot issues and improve processes.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Technical certification or associate degree in manufacturing, aerospace, or a related field preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on composite manufacturing experience, preferably in aerospace.
• Proficiency with Toray prepreg materials and composite layup techniques.
• Experience operating CNC routers and using basic CAM software or machine interfaces.
• Familiarity with bonding preparation methods and adhesive handling.
• Working knowledge of autoclave operations and composite curing processes.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and work instructions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with new facility setup, equipment installation, and process validation. Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement practices.
• Familiarity with aerospace quality systems (AS9100, NADCAP).
• Forklift or overhead crane certification.

Soft Skills

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Problem-solving mindset with a proactive, hands-on approach.
• High manual dexterity and precision in manufacturing tasks.

Technology Stack

• Basic CAM or CNC machine interface software.
• Standard manufacturing documentation and digital record-keeping tools.
• Use of measurement and inspection tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand, bend, reach, and perform manual tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to work in a production environment around machinery, ovens, and autoclaves.

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands

AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of 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.