Composite Technician

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.; California; On-site; USD 39,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is seeking an entry-level fabrication technician in California to prepare molds, lay up composite materials, and assemble aircraft components. You will follow blueprints, use measuring tools, and apply coatings with spray equipment in a loud manufacturing environment.

The role requires basic math, blueprint reading, and the ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Extended hours may be needed, and respirator certification may be required.

Qualifications

• Must be able to verbally communicate, read and comprehend written and verbal instructions.
• Must be familiar with blueprints and other drawings; capable of simple mathematical calculations and use of machinist hand tools and measuring instruments.
• May require respirator certification.
• Must be able to work in a loud environment; extended hours may be required; lift up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing molds and forms.
• Mark and cut tape, woven material, honeycomb and adhesives per templates or dimensions.
• Route, drill, trim and sand to blueprint tolerances.
• Vacuum bag parts for room-temperature cure.
• Assist lay-up of composite materials to molds.
• Fit and smooth successive layers to ensure wrinkle-free build-up.
• Assemble aircraft components using adhesives, rivets and fasteners.
• Prepare surfaces and paint composite/metal components; bodywork, contour shaping, sanding.
• Apply spray coatings using HVLP spray gun.
• Develop shop aids to facilitate fabrication and assembly.
• Check material expiration dates and mix resins/catalysts correctly.
• Maintain records; keep work area tidy and safe.
• Observe all laws and regulations; work safely per SOPs.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Communication skills

Blueprint reading

Measuring tools

Respirator cert

Lifts up to 50 lbs

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.

Job Summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.

Under close supervision, with detailed instruction and intermittent review, and working in a loud manufacturing environment with a variety of epoxy agents, this position performs elementary and routine tasks in preparation for and assists in the fabrication, curing, build-up and assembly of various types of composite materials where required information is readily available, methods and sequences have been pre-determined and tooling is provided. Works to blueprints, templates, sample parts, process sheets and other authorized information.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist in the preparation of molds and forms.
• Mark and cut tape, woven material, honeycomb, adhesive and similar materials following templates, guides or specific dimensions and sequences following specific instruction.
• Route, drill, trim and sand to blueprint dimensions and tolerances.
• Vacuum bag parts for room temperature cure.
• Assist in the lay-up of composite materials to molds.
• With assistance, fit and smooth successive layers of materials as necessary to secure build-up free from wrinkles, air pockets and voids following directions and instructions.
• Assemble Aircraft components using structural adhesives, rivets and threaded fasteners.
• Prepare surface and paint composite and metal components including bodywork, contour shaping and sanding.
• Apply spray application of epoxy paints, urethane and water based epoxy coatings, using a high volume low-pressure spray gun.
• Assist in the development of shop aids to facilitate fabrication, trimming and assembly as required.
• Check expiration dates of materials prior to use, prepare proper mixes of resins and catalysts.
• Maintain records as required.
• Support quality process by maintaining work area in an orderly condition by returning tools, equipment and material to storage areas.
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
• Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Additional Functions: Other duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires High School diploma or equivalent.
• Must be able to verbally communicate, read and comprehend written and verbal instructions.
• Must be familiar with blueprints and other similar drawings and documents; capable of doing simple mathematical calculations; and familiar with a variety of machinist hand tools and measuring instruments. May require respirator certification.
• Must be able to work in a loud environment; work extended hours as required; and be able to lift assemblies weighing up to 50 lbs.

Job Type: Full-Time Hourly

Salary range: 39,000 - 58,125