Job Overview
We are looking for a reliable and detail-oriented Composite Technician & Lathe Operator to join our production team. In this role, you will focus on winding filament composite parts (fiberglass and carbon fiber) and running lathe machining operations for final finishing.
All program development, process parameters, and setup engineering are complete. We need an operator who is comfortable setting up tooling, loading programs, monitoring machine runs, and maintaining quality standards across part runs. This role could grow into full programming depending on your capabilities.
Key Responsibilities
- Filament Winding: Set up, operate, and monitor 2-axis/multi-axis filament winding equipment using predetermined fiber, resin, and program settings for glass and carbon fiber parts.
- Manual / CNC Lathe Operation: Machine, trim, bore, or finish wound composite components and mandrels using lathe equipment according to defined specs.
- Material Handling & Prep: Mix resin systems, prepare fibers, clean mandrels, apply release agents, and handle post-cure processing (oven/autoclave prep as needed).
- Quality Control: Visually inspect completed parts and use precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers) to verify critical dimensions.
- Shop Maintenance: Clean tools, mandrels, and machinery; maintain standard shop safety and waste-disposal protocols for composite resins and solvents.
Qualifications & Skills
- Experience: Hands-on experience operating filament winding machines and/or manual/CNC lathes (composite machining experience is a plus, but metalworking experience translates well).
- Technical Familiarity: Comfortable running pre-programmed machine controlsno G-code programming or advanced CAM work required.
- Attention to Detail: Ability to follow strict technical instruction sheets, resin mixing ratios, and cure cycles consistently.
- Mechanical Aptitude: Basic troubleshooting skills for mechanical setups, fiber tensioning, and standard shop equipment.
- Physical Requirements: Able to lift up to [e.g., 50 lbs], stand for extended periods, and wear required PPE (respirators, gloves, eye protection).
Schedule & Growth Potential
- Hours: Initial schedule will be part-time (approx. 15–25 hours per week) with flexible scheduling options during shop hours.
- Opportunity: As production volume expands, this position has strong potential to convert into a full-time role with additional benefits.
