Composites Technician (Level 2)

Company Overview

Maher Advanced Manufacturing is an industry leader in advanced composite manufacturing for aerospace, defense, automotive, and other high-performance applications. We specialize in high-rate, cost-effective production leveraging cutting-edge processes and advanced fiber-reinforced material systems. We combine innovative materials, precision processes, and skilled craftsmanship to produce mission-critical components for our customers.

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Composite Technician II to join our production team. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience manufacturing complex-geometry and multi-material composite assemblies using hand lay-up, VARTM, RTM, SCRIMP, press forming, and press consolidation methods. This role encompasses tooling fabrication and maintenance, advanced bagging techniques, and full accountability for part quality and documentation traceability. This position reports to the Operations Manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Fabricate, machine, and maintain metallic, composite, and hybrid tooling systems to prescribed dimensional tolerances.

• Execute wet lay-up production using VARTM and other assisted resin infusion methods (SCRIMP, RTM, low-pressure injection, CARTM).

• Operate press forming and press consolidation equipment, including programming press cycles and managing high-pressure consolidation parameters.

• Manage captured-tool assemblies and reformable tool system adaptations.

• Deploy reusable and bladder-molding vacuum bagging techniques to optimize hard-tooling turnaround.

• Adapt process parameters to account for seasonal and environmental variability on the production floor.

• Complete all entries on work travelers and maintain full part pedigree from raw material receipt through finished component release.

• Conduct in-process dimensional and visual quality inspections using calibrated instruments and document findings per customer and internal specifications.

• Identify process variances, document deviations, and coordinate with engineering and quality assurance to disposition nonconforming conditions.

• Follow all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and housekeeping standards.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum one (1) year of hands-on composite manufacturing experience.

• Must hold U.S. citizenship due to the nature of government contract work.

• Proficiency in composite fabrication: lay-up, vacuum bagging, debulk, cure, post-cure, bonding, surface preparation, trimming, drilling, and finishing.

• Experience with press forming, press consolidation, and thermoplastic materials processing.

• Working knowledge of fiber orientation, weave architectures, resin chemistry (thermoset and thermoplastic), and cure management.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T callouts, work instructions, and customer specifications.

• Proficiency with standard shop tools and dimensional inspection instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges).

• Strong attention to detail, documentation discipline, and quality workmanship.

• Ability to work in a team-oriented production environment and communicate effectively across shifts.

• High school diploma or GED required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s degree (AA/AS) in composites technology, manufacturing technology, or a related technical field.

• Technical training, military MOS equivalency, or equivalent documented hands-on experience.

• Familiarity with aerospace or defense manufacturing standards and quality systems.

• Knowledge of lean manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement principles.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time.

• Ability to regularly lift up to 50 lbs.

• Manual dexterity to handle delicate composite materials, tooling, and precision instruments.

• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach overhead to access molds, tooling, and bagging assemblies.

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to composite dust, resin vapors, solvents, and elevated temperatures. PPE is provided and required.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.

• Hands-on work with press forming systems, advanced composite materials, and active R&D programs.

• Work on cutting-edge aerospace and defense programs.

• Opportunities for professional growth, training, and skills development.

Maher Advanced Manufacturing is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.