Composite Technician

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 56,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems in Poway, CA is seeking a skilled Composite Layup Technician to support fabrication and assembly of advanced aerospace materials.

Under limited supervision, you will prepare molds, lay up composites, trim to blueprint tolerances, and apply coatings while maintaining quality records. Must lift up to 50 lbs and adhere to safety procedures.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent with 5+ years related experience.
• Ability to read blueprints and detailed drawings.
• Capability to use hand tools and measuring instruments.
• Familiarity with common shop tools (band saws, drills, grinders).
• May require respirator certification and ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Prepare molds and forms for layup.
• Mark and cut tape, materials per templates and dimensions.
• Route, drill, trim, and sand to blueprint tolerances; operate vacuum press.
• Assemble aircraft components using adhesives, rivets and fasteners.
• Prepare surfaces and apply coatings, including epoxy paints and urethanes.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Verbal communication

Mathematical calculations

Hand tools

Measurement tools

Safety compliance

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Tools

Rollers

Paper cutters

Scissors

X-acto knives

Electric heat gun

Molds and mandrels

Job description

Job Summary

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 limited supervision and working in a loud environment with a variety of epoxy agents, this position performs a variety of non-routine and non-repetitive procedures 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 with blueprints, templates, sample parts, process sheets and other authorized information.

DUTIES AND 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.
• Route, drill, trim, and sand to blueprint dimensions and tolerances. Operate vacuum press as required. Assist in the lay-up of composite materials to mold.
• Fit and smooth successive layers of materials as necessary to secure build-up free from wrinkles, air pockets and voids following directions and instructions.
• Assist in the development of shop aids to facilitate fabrication, trimming and assembly as required.
• 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.
• Check expiration dates of materials prior to use, prepare proper mixes of resins and catalysts. 9. May make continuity checks on work in progress and may monitor and verify quality in accordance with statistical processes or other control procedures.
• Maintain records as required. Supports the quality process by maintaining work area in an orderly condition by returning tools, equipment and materials 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 and five or more years of related experience.
• Must be able to verbally communicate, read and comprehend written and verbal instructions, detailed blueprints and other similar authorized drawings and documents, and be capable of doing basic mathematical calculations.
• Must be able to use hand tools, such as rollers, paper cutters, scissors, x-acto knives, electric heat gun and fixtures such as molds and mandrels.
• Ability to use measuring instruments such as scales and protractors and calipers. Familiarity with common shop tools such as band saws, disk sanders, drill press, wood lathe, etc.
• 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: 56,180 - 83,518