Composite/Carbon Fiber Technician, Footwear Innovation

Aquent is proud to partner with a globally recognized leader in consumer goods, a company celebrated for its relentless pursuit of innovation and its pivotal role in shaping the future of product design and performance. This brand consistently pushes boundaries through groundbreaking technology and design, creating products that resonate worldwide. Join a team where your expertise will contribute to pioneering efforts that redefine what's possible in the consumer market.

Are you driven to revolutionize the future of footwear? We are seeking a highly skilled and passionate technician to join a pioneering innovation team at the cutting edge of product development. This is an unparalleled opportunity to be a foundational part of scaling a groundbreaking composites technology, directly impacting the creation of next-generation footwear. Imagine your hands-on work translating directly into high-performance products used by millions globally. If you thrive on applying your advanced composite building expertise to groundbreaking consumer products, this role offers the unique chance to see your vision and craftsmanship come to life on a global stage.

What You'll Do

• Play a critical role in the process development for composite footwear components as the team scales a new technology from concept to reality.
• Execute precise lay up, molding, and bonding of carbon fiber, glass fiber, and other composite prototypes, adhering strictly to established procedures and specifications.
• Safely and correctly handle, mix, and apply epoxies, resins, and various adhesives.
• Prepare all necessary materials, tooling, jigs, and equipment meticulously before each build.
• Utilize both hand and power tools to accurately cut, trim, and shape composite materials.
• Operate specialized equipment, including vacuum pumps, ovens, presses, and manage cure cycles.
• Leverage CAD skills to support the design of parts, tooling, jigs, and fixtures.
• Conduct thorough quality inspections of parts, identify and flag defects or non-conformities, and actively contribute to their resolution.
• Perform detailed part and material analysis on fabricated and tested components, employing statistical analysis to effectively communicate findings.
• Maintain clear and consistent documentation of processes, build records, inspection reports, and material usage.
• Present findings and progress updates compellingly to the broader innovation team.
• Collaborate seamlessly with global partners, demonstrating flexibility for occasional early morning or evening calls across different time zones.
• Adhere strictly to safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized laboratory environment.

Required Skills & Experience

• 3 years of hands-on experience in composites manufacturing or a materials development role.
• Direct experience working with carbon fiber, glass fiber, or other composite materials.
• Working knowledge of key composite manufacturing processes, including prepreg layup, kitting, vacuum bagging, compression molding, curing, bonding, and finishing.
• Solid understanding of safe handling procedures for epoxies.
• Proficiency in CAD.
• Strong communication, presentation, and documentation skills.
• A collaborative team player comfortable working with engineers, designers, and global partners.
• Ability to accurately read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and work instructions.
• Exceptional attention to detail and a proactive, hands-on approach to troubleshooting.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs multiple times a day.
• Flexibility to accommodate early morning or evening calls for global collaboration.
• Openness to potential international travel.

Preferred Skills

• Associate or bachelor's degree in Composites Technology, Materials Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience in footwear or consumer product development.
• Experience with statistical analysis (e.g., Design of Experiments (DOE), Statistical Process Control (SPC)).
• Proven experience in scaling a new process or technology from prototype into full production.
• A background in product development within the footwear, apparel, or sporting goods industries.

Why Aquent

Aquent offers contractors access to benefits, including medical, dental, vision, a 401(k), and paid sick leave where applicable. See the full details at aquent.com.