Composite Lamination Technician I

Location: Brea, CA
Department: Operations
Schedule: Full-Time | On-Site
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Pay Range: $18.00–$21.00 per hour

Position Summary

Applied Composites is seeking a Composite Lamination Technician I to support the manufacturing of advanced composite components for the aerospace and defense industries. This hands-on position involves preparing molds and tooling, handling composite materials, laying up fabrics and prepreg materials, preparing vacuum bags, and completing production documentation in accordance with established manufacturing and quality requirements.

The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity, attention to detail, and an interest in learning specialized manufacturing processes. Candidates with experience in aerospace composites, manufacturing, assembly, automotive service, warehouse operations, or other hands-on work environments are encouraged to apply. Previous composite manufacturing experience is preferred but not required.

About AC

Come and join the Applied Composites team. We are a leading provider of complex composite components, assemblies, engineering and tooling to the aerospace, defense and space system markets. Our employees are treated with respect and given the support, knowledge, and resources they need to thrive. If you are looking for a company that values and develops its employees while offering engaging work, Applied Composites may be the place for you.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare molds, tools, and work surfaces for composite layup operations in accordance with approved manufacturing instructions.

• Clean tooling and apply approved mold-release agents following established procedures and applicable safety requirements.

• Handle, cut, position, and apply composite materials, including prepreg fabrics, adhesives, core materials, and other layup materials.

• Perform composite layup operations according to approved ply schedules, fiber orientations, and manufacturing instructions.

• Use approved hand tools, rollers, squeegees, and heat guns to position and consolidate composite materials and remove trapped air.

• Cut and trim composite materials using scissors, knives, and other approved tools without damaging molds or tooling.

• Prepare and apply vacuum bagging materials, including release films, breather materials, sealant tape, and vacuum bags, according to established procedures.

• Perform required vacuum bag leak checks and report leaks or other abnormalities to the Lead or Manager.

• Assist with preparing completed layups and vacuum-bagged parts for transfer to autoclave or oven curing operations.

• Read and follow production travelers, build manuals, diagrams, ply schedules, and applicable manufacturing instructions.

• Perform basic measurements, material handling, and production calculations as required by established procedures.

• Monitor and document material usage, freezer out-time, and other required production information.

• Perform required visual and process checks to identify potential defects, material irregularities, or nonconforming conditions.

• Promptly notify the Lead or Manager of suspected defects, process deviations, material concerns, or other production issues.

• Complete required production travelers, inspection records, and related documentation accurately.

• Use hand tools and production equipment safely and appropriately.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with company safety and manufacturing standards.

• Identify opportunities for process improvement and communicate observations to the Lead or Manager.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or GED, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and work experience.

Experience

• Minimum: 0–1 years of manufacturing or related hands-on work experience. Previous experience is preferred but not required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to read, understand, and follow written work instructions, production travelers, diagrams, and manufacturing specifications in English.

• Mechanical aptitude and ability to learn the safe and proper use of hand tools and manufacturing equipment.

• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to handle, position, and assemble materials accurately.

• Basic math and measurement skills.

• Ability to follow established manufacturing, safety, and quality procedures.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, quality work.

• Ability to learn composite layup techniques, material handling requirements, and vacuum bagging procedures.

• Ability to recognize and report material abnormalities, process deviations, and potential quality concerns.

• Ability to complete production documentation accurately.

• Ability to manage assigned production tasks and meet established deadlines while maintaining safety and quality standards.

• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and coworkers.

• Ability to perform routine production assignments with general supervision following appropriate training.

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience

• Two or more years of relevant manufacturing or hands-on experience, particularly in aerospace composites, composite layup, industrial assembly, fabrication, or other precision manufacturing environments.

Additional Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with composite materials, including prepreg fabrics, adhesives, core materials, and reinforcement materials.

• Experience with composite layup, vacuum bagging, mold preparation, or related manufacturing processes.

• Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing practices and quality requirements.

• Experience reading engineering drawings, manufacturing instructions, or production travelers.

• Experience using hand tools, measuring equipment, or precision assembly tools.

• Vocational training, apprenticeship, or related technical education in manufacturing, fabrication, or industrial operations.

• Familiarity with Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement principles.

• Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus.

Safety, Quality, and Compliance

• Follow all company safety policies, established work procedures, and applicable equipment safety requirements.

• Properly handle chemicals, resins, adhesives, and composite materials in accordance with applicable Safety Data Sheets and company procedures.

• Follow established requirements for material handling, storage, traceability, and contamination prevention.

• Report unsafe conditions, suspected nonconforming products, process abnormalities, and potential compliance concerns promptly.

• Maintain the confidentiality and security of company and customer information.

• Cooperate with applicable safety, quality, and compliance investigations.

Benefits

At Applied Composites, we recognize how important your career and benefits are to you and your family. We offer a full suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability coverage, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, basic and supplemental life insurance, employee assistance plan, retirement savings and matching, tuition reimbursement and other developmental opportunities. We are committed to supporting the way you live and work.

AC is an Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled - Affirmative Action Employer.

This position requires the use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. "Green Card Holder"), Political Asylee, or Refugee.