Chop Gun Operator & Finisher - R&D

Position Summary

The Chop Gun & Finisher is responsible for performing fiberglass lamination, chop gun application, grinding, trimming, sanding, finishing, and related composite manufacturing processes within the PD&E department. This position supports the development and production of new boat models, prototypes, molds, plugs, tooling, and production improvements.

The ideal candidate has hands-on experience working with fiberglass and composite materials, understands proper resin and fiberglass application techniques, and takes pride in producing high-quality work. The position requires attention to detail, the ability to follow specifications and work instructions, and a strong commitment to safety, quality, and productivity.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Chop Gun / Fiberglass Operations

• Operate a fiberglass chop gun to apply chopped fiberglass and resin to molds, plugs, prototypes, and other composite structures.
• Properly mix and apply resin, catalyst, and fiberglass materials according to established procedures.
• Maintain appropriate fiberglass thickness, coverage, and laminate quality.
• Build fiberglass laminates according to drawings, specifications, schedules, and engineering requirements.
• Perform hand lay-up and assist with other composite fabrication processes as needed.
• Identify and correct fiberglass application issues, voids, dry spots, air pockets, and other laminate defects.
• Maintain and clean chop gun equipment, hoses, nozzles, and related tools.
• Safely handle resins, catalysts, fiberglass, solvents, and other composite materials.

Finishing / Composite Fabrication

• Grind, trim, sand, and finish fiberglass components to required dimensions and surface conditions.
• Remove excess fiberglass, resin, flashing, and other unwanted material.
• Perform bodywork and surface preparation on plugs, molds, prototypes, and boat components.
• Fill, fair, and finish composite surfaces to achieve required contours and surface quality.
• Prepare surfaces for subsequent fiberglass, gelcoat, paint, bonding, or assembly operations.
• Use hand tools and power tools including grinders, sanders, saws, drills, and other fabrication equipment.
• Inspect finished work for dimensional accuracy, surface quality, and compliance with PD&E requirements.
• Make adjustments and repairs as necessary to achieve the desired finished product.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of fiberglass and composite fabrication processes.
• Ability to operate a fiberglass chop gun safely and effectively.
• Ability to perform fiberglass hand lay-up, grinding, trimming, sanding, and finishing.
• Ability to read and understand basic measurements, drawings, and work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to use hand tools and power tools safely.
• Ability to work independently while also working effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to identify problems and make appropriate corrections.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing and development environment.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to learn new processes, materials, tools, and techniques.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in fiberglass boat manufacturing.
• Experience with composite fabrication, laminating, or finishing.
• Experience operating a fiberglass chop gun.
• Experience with molds, plugs, tooling, or prototype construction.
• Experience with gelcoat, polyester resin, vinyl ester resin, or epoxy systems.
• Experience using grinders, sanders, and other composite fabrication equipment.
• Previous experience in a marine manufacturing or boatbuilding environment.

Physical Requirements

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Ability to stand and work for extended periods.
• Ability to frequently bend, stoop, kneel, reach, climb, and work in various positions.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment as required.
• Ability to work with fiberglass materials and composite chemicals.
• Ability to wear required PPE for extended periods.
• Ability to safely operate hand tools and power equipment.
• Ability to work in manufacturing environments where exposure to fiberglass dust, resin odors, noise, heat, and other manufacturing conditions may occur.

Work Environment

The position is primarily performed in a manufacturing and prototype/development environment. The employee may be exposed to:

• Fiberglass dust and particles
• Resin, catalyst, solvents, and chemical odors
• Loud equipment and machinery
• Heat and varying temperatures
• Power tools and fabrication equipment
• Awkward or confined work areas
• Required PPE and respiratory protection