NIAR Composites Fabrication Student Assistant

WICHITA STATE UNIVERSITY; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 24,796 - 27,552; Part time

Job summary

The Composites Lab at Wichita State University is looking for a Student assistant to join our Composite Fabrication team. This position provides hands‑on experience in manufacturing advanced composite structures used in aerospace research and development.

The ideal candidate enjoys working with their hands, following detailed processes, and contributing to a collaborative research environment. On-site work is based on class schedule with an emphasis on safety and precision.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience using MS Office suite.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated, self-disciplined, organized and driven.
• Able to work with minimal supervision.
• Interested in learning about aerospace materials and processes.

Responsibilities

• Assist with composite material preparation, cutting, and layup.
• Fabricate composite panels, coupons, molds, and research components following engineering specifications.
• Perform precise hand layup while following instructions.
• Perform vacuum bagging and prepare parts for autoclave and oven curing.
• De-mold cured laminates without damaging them.
• Follow laboratory procedures and accurately document manufacturing activities.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Attention to detail

Hands-on manufacturing

Self-motivation

Independent work

Aerospace materials interest

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Department

NIAR Composites & Structures

Campus Location

Wichita, KS - Other Wichita Location

Hire Type

Part Time

Pay

$19 per hour

Work Schedule

Based on class schedule; work is performed on-site and in person.

Export Compliance Requirement

This position requires access to EAR or ITAR controlled technologies. Applicants are required to be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and must meet the requirement of being a "U.S. Person".

Job Story

The Composites Lab at Wichita State University is looking for a Student assistant to join our Composite Fabrication team. This position provides hands‑on experience in manufacturing advanced composite structures used in aerospace research and development. The ideal candidate enjoys working with their hands, following detailed processes, and contributing to a collaborative research environment.

Job Summary

A student assistant will carry out administrative and technical tasks requested by a supervisor. Depending on the area the student assistant is employed in, they may assist and mentor other students or provide support throughout the campus in various forms.

Job Duties

• Assist with composite material preparation, cutting, and layup.
• Fabricate composite panels, coupons, molds, and research components following engineering specifications.
• Perform precise hand layup while following instructions.
• Perform vacuum bagging and prepare parts for autoclave and oven curing.
• De‑mold cured laminates without damaging them.
• Follow laboratory procedures and accurately document manufacturing activities.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.

Required Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Preferred Qualifications

• Operation of some basic shop hand tools.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written work instructions.
• Comfortable working in a hands‑on manufacturing or laboratory environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience using MS Office suite.
• Self‑motivated, self‑disciplined, organized, and driven individual.
• Able to work with minimal supervision.
• Interested in learning about aerospace materials and processes.

Additional Information

• Lift large tools and boxes in and out of the freezer. (75lb max)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to remain in a stationary position.
• Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators.
• Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information.