Flight-Critical Composite Fabrication Technician (II–IV)

APEX Space & Defense Systems; Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 88,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with match

Dental and vision options

Job summary

APEX Space and Defense Systems is hiring composite fabrication and integration technicians in Santa Ana, CA. The team builds flight-critical structures, following strict dimensional tolerances and process specs.

Technicians with two+ years of hands-on composite experience progress through levels II–IV, with pay tied to experience and certifications. This on-site role requires U.S. citizenship for clearance sponsorship.

Qualifications

• Two+ years hands-on composite manufacturing experience.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and follow written work instructions and process specifications in English.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality and FOD control.
• Dependable attendance at the scheduled shift start.

Responsibilities

• Read engineering drawings, 3D models, work instructions and material specs.
• Cut prepreg plies and honeycomb core using templates or Gerber cutting systems.
• Prepare, maintain and assemble molds and tooling.
• Complete hand layup of prepreg materials, debulks and vacuum bagging.
• Load, run and document autoclave and oven cure cycles.
• Process honeycomb core prep, splicing and bonding and assemble into higher assemblies.
• Trim, drill, sand and finish parts to close tolerances and verify conformance.
• Inspect work and record in AS9100 system.
• Maintain FOD control and follow cleanroom/safety protocols.

Skills

Composite manufacturing

Reading drawings

Hand layup

Vacuum bagging

Prepreg handling

Process adherence

Safety compliance

Attendance reliability

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Gerber ply cutting

Autoclave operation

NDT (X-ray/US)

Job description

APEX Space and Defense Systems is hiring composite fabrication and integration technicians in Santa Ana, CA. The team builds flight-critical structures, following strict dimensional tolerances and process specs.

Technicians with two+ years of hands-on composite experience progress through levels II–IV, with pay tied to experience and certifications. This on-site role requires U.S. citizenship for clearance sponsorship.