Composite Tech

Rock West Composites, Inc. has an exciting opportunity for a Composite Technician.

Rock West Composites, Inc. is an engineering and manufacturing company dedicated to providing innovative solutions for commercial and government customers. This position is located in our San Diego facility (Otay Mesa) and reports to the Production Supervisor. 1st and 2nd shift available.

Position Summary:

The primary position covers all levels of general composites fabrication using various processes which include VARTM, RTM, prepreg lay-up, vacuum bagged wet lay-up, and oven curing. You will be responsible for various tasks related to composite fabrication, bonding, and assembly. Your ability to interpret technical documents, perform precise lay-ups, and ensure the quality of finished products will be crucial.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and instructions to execute projects efficiently.
• Lay-up composite materials in compliance with customer and company standards.
• Bond diverse material assemblies, parts, and structures to create high-quality finished products.
• Execute lay-up processes using measuring instruments based on shop orders, blueprints, or laser ply projectors.
• Refine surfaces through sanding, burring, and the application of sealing resins to exposed edges.
• Perform vacuum bagging for various shapes and sizes.
• Operate hydraulic presses and ovens for the complete bonding cycle, including assisting in loading autoclaves using equipment such as forklifts and cranes.
• Conduct repairs on composite, metal, or laminate bonded products following inspection and rework instructions.
• Maintain a vigilant eye on the quality of finished products, ensuring they meet established standards.
• Identify and differentiate between various process materials, including prepregs, adhesives, and resins.
• Prepare molds and materials for composite structure lay-ups.
• Demonstrate expertise in composite layup and tooling, working with materials like carbon fiber.
• Assemble composite structures, covering setup, bonding, and fastener applications.
• Carry out part-fitting operations, including filing, sawing, trimming, drilling, reaming, and riveting.
• Hand lay-up of composite materials (Wet & Prepreg)
• Vacuum bagging process and procedures
• Application and understanding of resin systems (Epoxy, Polyester, Vinyl ester, Silicones, etc.)
• Perform hand-finishing operations on patterns and molds
• Use a variety of hand tools in cutting, grinding, fitting, and assembling
• Adhesive bonding applications
• Assembly of structures including setup, bonding, and fastener applications

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

• High School diploma/GED is required
• Minimum 10 years composite experience (aerospace industry experience preferred)
• Advanced Prepreg manufacturing knowledge
• Experienced in Core bond and Splicing
• Resin infusion knowledge
• Composites Manufacturing environment a must.
• Experience with the production of composite tooling and components.
• Fabricate aircraft components using composite materials.
• Perform prepreg and wet lay-ups.
• Perform vacuum bagging of the composites.
• Work with carbon fiber, fiber glass, quartz, and Kevlar.
• Sand, deburr, cut, and prepare / finish composite pieces.
• Work with curing ovens and thermocouples.
• Use monitoring and measuring equipment (calipers, micrometers, gages, etc.).
• Experience with bonding and assembly of composite assemblies.
• Ability to use a variety of hand tools and shop equipment for modification, fabrication, and repair.
• Knowledge of aircraft hardware, materials, and processes.
• Read drawings and layouts.
• Must own a comprehensive set of hand tools.
• Strong work ethic.
• Ability to comprehend and follow written instructions.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced work environment while maintaining a strong attention to detail.
• Excellent hand dexterity and coordination.
• Ability to maintain a clean & organized environment.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• US. Person under 22 CFR 120 (due to ITAR Restrictions)

Perks and Benefits: 

• 100% Employer Paid Medical and Dental 
• Annual Bonus 
• 401K - 5% match
• Employee Stocks Option Program 
• 9/80 work schedule
• 8- paid Holidays 
• PTO: Max. 4-weeks after 5 years of employment 
• $2,500 tuition reimbursement 

Compensation:

The hourly range for this position falls within $20 and $32. The final compensation will be determined based on experience, skillset,  and other factors permitted by law.

Why should you want to work with us?

Rock West Composites cares about our employees! Not only do we offer great benefits to our full-time employees (Medical & Dental 100% employer paid, Vision, Paid Time Off and 401K match), we offer a fun and friendly working environment! 

Rock West Composites is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the company to provide equal opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, ancestry, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, transitioning status, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, medical condition, mental disability, physical disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law. EEO is the law. We also prohibit compensation discrimination under all applicable laws. Certain positions require meeting the U.S. Person definition in 22 CFR 120.62.

ITAR Requirement:

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder) as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the company’s immigration sponsorship now or in the future. Rock West Composites will not offer immigration sponsorship for this position. Rock West Composites will not seek an export authorization for this role. Rock West Composites maintains a Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace. Depending on state law and the nature of the position, candidates who receive a conditional offer of employment may be required to complete a drug screening. Rock West Composites may also conduct drug and alcohol testing based on reasonable suspicion, post-incident, or for safety-sensitive positions as permitted by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact 858-537-6260.