Senior Composite Lab Technician & Technical Lead

DCS Corporation; Ridgecrest (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

DCS is seeking an Engineering Laboratory Technician in Ridgecrest, CA to lead advanced composite manufacturing tasks, operate autoclaves and winders, and mentor junior staff. You will apply deep technical expertise to ensure quality and compliance with safety standards while driving process improvements and technical leadership within the lab.

Independent execution of complex tasks, development of SOPs, and collaboration with engineers are required to achieve high-quality, repeatable production

Qualifications

• Proven experience independently operating autoclaves, ovens, filament winders, and handling prepreg materials.
• Proven judgment and initiative in identifying inconsistencies or gaps in technical data, analyzing historical equipment failures, and supporting design modifications.
• Strong skills in the precision fit-up of assemblies and the design/maintenance of manufacturing tools such as mandrels.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality management systems and a strong track record of adhering to and enforcing lab safety policies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects, mentor junior technicians, and resolve complex technical challenges as a subject matter expert.
• Excellent technical writing skills (for SOPs, travelers, and reports) and the ability to confidently present briefings to senior leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead composites manufacturing and technical operations, including equipment optimization and bonding processes.
• Inspect finished hardware against technical drawings and specifications, resolving discrepancies.
• Oversee safety audits, SOP development, and ISO 9001 adherence for lab processes.
• Mentor junior laboratory technicians in filament winding operations and equipment usage.
• Collaborate with engineers to support design modifications with technical data and material specs.

Skills

Autoclave operation

Oven operation

Filament winding

Prepreg handling

ISO 9001

Safety compliance

Technical leadership

Technical writing

Education

Associate's degree/Technical Certificate

High school diploma with 7+ years experience

Tools

Mandrels

Job description

DCS is seeking an Engineering Laboratory Technician in Ridgecrest, CA to lead advanced composite manufacturing tasks, operate autoclaves and winders, and mentor junior staff. You will apply deep technical expertise to ensure quality and compliance with safety standards while driving process improvements and technical leadership within the lab.

Independent execution of complex tasks, development of SOPs, and collaboration with engineers are required to achieve high-quality, repeatable production