Composite Technician

Aerotek; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

Aerotek in Poway, CA is seeking a Composite Technician (entry level or experienced) to fabricate, assemble, and repair advanced composite structures. You will read blueprints, prepare molds, perform lay-up and curing, and ensure quality through inspections on first and second shifts.

The role emphasizes bonding, fastener installation, and meticulous work in a safe, organized environment. Candidates should have hands-on experience with composites and be able to operate hand tools and measuring

Qualifications

• Experience with composites, manufacturing, layup, lamination, and blueprints.
• Knowledge of vacuum bagging, aerospace components, autoclave processes, prepregs, and carbon fiber.
• Strong work ethic and familiarity with assembly, fabrication, or mechanics.
• Ability to read and understand detailed blueprints and instructions.
• Capable of using measuring instruments and hand tools safely.

Responsibilities

• Align composite parts to engineering drawings and specs.
• Bond components with structural adhesives to form durable joints.
• Install rivets, bolts, and screws with correct torque and placement.
• Assemble structures using hardware with metallic or non-metallic parts.
• Prepare bonding surfaces and ensure optimal adhesion.
• Use jigs and templates to maintain dimensional accuracy.
• Record steps and any deviations in process logs.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and fabrication teams.
• Support molding and tooling preparation.
• Route, drill, trim, and sand to blueprint tolerances.

Skills

Composite layup

Vacuum bagging

Autoclave processes

Prepreg

Carbon fiber

Blueprint reading

Hand tools

Measuring tools

Work ethic

Job description

COMPOSITE TECHNICIAN (Entry Level and Experienced)

San Diego, CA - 1st and 2nd Shift - $22.64/hr or more based on experience

Job Description

As a Composite Technician Assembler, you will be responsible for fabricating, assembling, and repairing advanced composite structures using materials like carbon fiber, Kevlar, and fiberglass. You will interpret blueprints, prepare molds, and execute material lay-up, curing, and finishing processes. The role involves assembling components through trimming, drilling, bonding, and fastening parts to meet precise engineering specifications. You will ensure quality through detailed inspections and collaborate with other teams to resolve assembly challenges while maintaining a safe and organized work environment.

Responsibilities

• Precisely align and fit composite parts and subassemblies according to engineering drawings and specifications.
• Apply structural adhesives and bonding agents to join composite components, ensuring strong, durable bonds.
• Install fasteners such as rivets, bolts, and screws using hand and power tools, verifying torque values and placement.
• Assemble complex structures by integrating hardware and mating composite parts with metallic or non-metallic elements.
• Prepare bonding surfaces by sanding, cleaning, and treating to ensure optimal adhesion and structural integrity.
• Set up and use assembly jigs, fixtures, and templates to maintain dimensional accuracy during assembly processes.
• Perform basic functional checks and preliminary inspections to verify assembly quality before final inspection.
• Record assembly steps, process parameters, and any deviations from standard procedures.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and fabrication teams to resolve assembly challenges and improve processes.
• Assist in the preparation of molds and forms.
• Mark and cut tape, woven material, honeycomb, and adhesives following templates and specific instructions.
• Route, drill, trim, and sand to blueprint dimensions and tolerances.
• Maintain records as required.
• Support quality processes by maintaining work area in an orderly condition.
• Work safely in accordance with established procedures and practices.

Essential Skills

• Experience with composites, manufacturing, layup, lamination, and blueprints.
• Knowledge of vacuum bagging, aerospace components, autoclave processes, fabrication, prepreg, and carbon fiber.
• Strong work ethic and familiarity with assembly, fabrication, or mechanics.
• Ability to verbally communicate, read and comprehend detailed blueprints and written instructions.
• Capability to use hand tools such as rollers, paper cutters, scissors, x-acto knives, and electric heat guns.
• Proficiency in using measuring instruments like scales, protractors, and calipers.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Respirator certification may be required.
• Ability to work in a loud environment and extended hours as needed.
• Physical ability to lift assemblies weighing up to 50 lbs.

Why Work Here?

Join a team that is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems. Benefit from a collaborative and innovative work environment that promotes professional growth and development.

Work Environment

You will be working on the 1st shift 5am to 2:30pm or 2nd shift from 2:30 PM to 12:00 AM. Expect to work in a loud environment with advanced technologies and equipment, adhering to safety protocols and maintaining an organized workspace

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Poway, CA 92064.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $22.64 - $22.64/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & visionCritical Illness, Accident, and Hospital401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions availableLife Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)Short and long-term disabilityHealth Spending Account (HSA)Transportation benefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramTime Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 11, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Poway, CA 92064.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.