Composite Technician

Poseidon Aerospace; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Poseidon Aerospace in San Francisco is looking for a Composite Technician responsible for fabricating and assembling advanced composite components for aerospace projects. The role requires over 3 years of hands-on composite fabrication experience and proficiency with techniques like hand layup and vacuum bagging. Candidates should be able to interpret engineering drawings and work collaboratively with design teams. The position emphasizes both quality and efficiency in prototype and production environments.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands-on composite fabrication experience in a relevant environment.
• Proficiency with hand layup, prepreg handling, and vacuum bagging techniques.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate composite components using various techniques.
• Maintain molds, fixtures, and jigs for fabrication.
• Collaborate with engineers to interpret designs.
• Monitor and set up vacuum bagging and curing processes.

Skills

Composite fabrication experience

Problem-solving skills

Ability to read engineering drawings

Comfortable with epoxy resins

Tools

Precision measurement tools

3D modeling software

Job description

About Poseidon Aerospace

Poseidon Aerospace builds and operates unmanned planes for commercial logistics and defense missions. Our two full-size fixed-wing platforms - Heron, a seaplane, and Egret, a STOL aircraft - can carry two tons of payload over a thousand nautical miles. We are headquartered in San Francisco with satellite offices in Washington, DC and Maine.

As a Composite Technician at Poseidon Aerospace you will be responsible for the fabrication and assembly of advanced composite components for aerospace prototype and development programs. This role requires a strong understanding of composite materials, custom tooling, and hands‑on manufacturing techniques. The ideal candidate is a skilled fabricator who can interpret engineering concepts, build tooling or jigs as needed, and support one‑off as well as high‑rate composite builds from start to finish.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate composite components using hand layup, resin infusion, and bonding techniques.
• Build, modify, and maintain custom molds, fixtures, and jigs to support prototype part fabrication and assembly.
• Collaborate closely with engineers and designers to interpret 3D models, drawings, and verbal instructions.
• Develop and refine layup methods, cure cycles, and fabrication approaches for new designs.
• Set up and monitor vacuum bagging, and oven curing processes.
• Trim, drill, and assemble complex composite parts to tight tolerances using manual and power tools.
• Perform surface preparation, adhesive bonding, and final finishing operations.
• Maintain traceability of materials and processes to meet aerospace documentation requirements.
• Identify and communicate design or manufacturability issues and propose practical solutions.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in prototype and production transition efforts.

Ideal Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands‑on composite fabrication experience (prototype, marine, or aerospace environment preferred).
• Proficiency with hand layup, prepreg handling, and vacuum bagging techniques.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and process specifications.
• Strong problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
• Comfortable working with epoxy resins, adhesives, and solvents while following safety procedures.

Nice to Have

• Experience fabricating or modifying jigs, fixtures, or tooling using metal, wood, or composite materials.
• Familiarity with precision measurement tools and quality inspection processes.
• Familiarity with 3D modeling software.
• Experience working in a fast paced prototyping environment and large scale production.

Even if you don't meet every qualification listed, we encourage you to apply. At Poseidon Aerospace, we value diverse perspectives and are always looking for talented individuals with unconventional backgrounds.