Rock West Composites, Inc. has an exciting opportunity for a Composite Technician.
Rock West Composites, Inc. is an engineering and manufacturing company dedicated to providing innovative solutions for commercial and government customers. This position is located in our San Diego facility (Otay Mesa) and reports to the Production Supervisor.
Position Summary:
The primary position covers all levels of general composites fabrication using various processes which include VARTM, RTM, prepreg lay-up, vacuum bagged wet lay-up, and oven curing. You will be responsible for various tasks related to composite fabrication, bonding, and assembly. Your ability to interpret technical documents, perform precise lay-ups, and ensure the quality of finished products will be crucial.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and instructions to execute projects efficiently.
- Lay-up composite materials in compliance with customer and company standards.
- Bond diverse material assemblies, parts, and structures to create high-quality finished products.
- Execute lay-up processes using measuring instruments based on shop orders, blueprints, or laser ply projectors.
- Refine surfaces through sanding, burring, and the application of sealing resins to exposed edges.
- Perform vacuum bagging for various shapes and sizes.
- Operate hydraulic presses and ovens for the complete bonding cycle, including assisting in loading autoclaves using equipment such as forklifts and cranes.
- Conduct repairs on composite, metal, or laminate bonded products following inspection and rework instructions.
- Maintain a vigilant eye on the quality of finished products, ensuring they meet established standards.
- Identify and differentiate between various process materials, including prepregs, adhesives, and resins.
- Prepare molds and materials for composite structure lay-ups.
- Demonstrate expertise in composite layup and tooling, working with materials like carbon fiber.
- Assemble composite structures, covering setup, bonding, and fastener applications.
- Carry out part-fitting operations, including filing, sawing, trimming, drilling, reaming, and riveting.
- Hand lay-up of composite materials (Wet & Prepreg)
- Vacuum bagging process and procedures
- Application and understanding of resin systems (Epoxy, Polyester, Vinyl ester, Silicones, etc.)
- Perform hand-finishing operations on patterns and molds
- Use a variety of hand tools in cutting, grinding, fitting, and assembling
- Adhesive bonding applications
- Assembly of structures including setup, bonding, and fastener applications
NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Other duties as assigned.
Required Education and Experience:
- High School diploma/GED is required
- Minimum 5 years composite experience (aerospace industry experience preferred)
- Advanced Prepreg manufacturing knowledge
- Experienced in Core bond and Splicing
- Resin infusion knowledge
- Composites Manufacturing environment a must.
- Experience with the production of composite tooling and components.
- Fabricate aircraft components using composite materials.
- Perform prepreg and wet lay-ups.
- Perform vacuum bagging of the composites.
- Work with carbon fiber, fiber glass, quartz, and Kevlar.
- Sand, deburr, cut, and prepare / finish composite pieces.
- Work with curing ovens and thermocouples.
- Use monitoring and measuring equipment (calipers, micrometers, gages, etc.).
- Experience with bonding and assembly of composite assemblies.
- Ability to use a variety of hand tools and shop equipment for modification, fabrication, and repair.
- Knowledge of aircraft hardware, materials, and processes.
- Read drawings and layouts.
- Must own a comprehensive set of hand tools.
- Strong work ethic.
- Ability to comprehend and follow written instructions.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced work environment while maintaining a strong attention to detail.
- Excellent hand dexterity and coordination.
- Ability to maintain a clean & organized environment.
- Effective oral and written communication skills.
Perks and Benefits:
- 100% Employer Paid Medical and Dental
- Annual Bonus
- 401K - 5% match
- Employee Stocks Option Program
- 9/80 work schedule
- 8- paid Holidays
- PTO: Max. 4-weeks after 5 years of employment
- $2,500 tuition reimbursement
Compensation:
The hourly range for this position falls within $20 and $32. The final compensation will be determined based on experience, skillset, and other factors permitted by law.
Why should you want to work with us?
Rock West Composites cares about our employees! Not only do we offer great benefits to our full-time employees (Medical & Dental 100% employer paid, Vision, Paid Time Off and 401K match), we offer a fun and friendly working environment!
Rock West Composites is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the company to provide equal opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status or any other basis prohibited by state or federal law. Due to nature of defense contracts, US Citizenship is a requirement. As part of our Drug and Alcohol Policy, upon acceptance of any offer of employment, employment will be conditional of passing a required drug test.
If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact 858-537-6260.
