Composite Technician

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is seeking a Composite Technician Assembler for a 2nd shift (3pm–12:30am) in Poway, CA.

The role involves fabricating, assembling, and repairing advanced composite structures using carbon fiber, Kevlar, and fiberglass. You will read blueprints, prepare molds, perform lay-up, curing, and finishing, and ensure quality through inspections with cross-team collaboration.

Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings.
• Experience working with composite materials (carbon fiber, Kevlar, fiberglass) or aerospace components.
• Strong attention to detail and manual dexterity.

Responsibilities

• Align and fit composite parts according to engineering drawings.
• Bond, cure, and finish composite components using adhesives and sealants.
• Assemble parts using fasteners; verify torque values and placement.
• Prepare molds and forms, and trim/sand to blueprint dimensions.
• Record process steps and deviations; maintain organized documentation.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Composite materials

Attention to detail

Manual dexterity

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 supervision, the Composite Technician Assembler is responsible for fabricating, assembling, and repairing advanced composite structures using materials such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, and fiberglass. This role involves reading and interpreting blueprints, preparing molds, and performing material lay-up, curing, and finishing processes. The technician assembles components by trimming, drilling, bonding, and fastening parts to meet precise engineering specifications. They ensure quality through detailed inspections and collaborate with other teams to resolve assembly challenges. Maintaining a safe and organized work environment is essential, as is adherence to safety procedures and documentation requirements. This position requires strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and experience with composite materials or aerospace components. This is a 2nd shift role from 3pm to 12:30 am.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Part Alignment & Fit-Up: Precisely align and fit composite parts and subassemblies according to engineering drawings and specifications, ensuring proper orientation and fit between components.
• Bonding & Joining: Apply structural adhesives, sealants, and bonding agents to join composite components. Use proper techniques to ensure strong, durable bonds and prevent contamination.
• Mechanical Fastening: Install fasteners such as rivets, bolts, and screws using hand and power tools. Verify torque values and fastener placement according to specifications.
• Component Integration: Assemble complex structures by integrating hardware (inserts, bushings, brackets) and mating composite parts with metallic or non-metallic elements.
• Surface Preparation: Prepare bonding surfaces by sanding, cleaning, and treating as required to ensure optimal adhesion and structural integrity.
• Tooling & Fixtures: Set up and use assembly jigs, fixtures, and templates to maintain dimensional accuracy and repeatability during assembly processes.
• Functional Testing: Perform basic functional checks (fit, movement, alignment) and preliminary inspections to verify assembly quality before final inspection.
• Documentation: Record assembly steps, process parameters, and any deviations from standard procedures. Communicate findings and issues to supervisors or engineering teams.
• Collaboration: Work closely 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, 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.
• 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 Type: None

Salary range: 39,000 - 58,125