Composite Technician

AST SpaceMobile is seeking a detail-oriented and highly motivated Composite Technician to support the fabrication, assembly, and repair of advanced composite structures used in satellite manufacturing. The Composite Technician will be responsible for laying up, bonding, curing, trimming, and inspecting carbon fiber and other composite components while ensuring compliance with engineering specifications, quality standards, and production schedules. Position Summary The Composite Technician is responsible for fabricating, assembling, finishing, and inspecting advanced composite components used in satellite manufacturing. This position works with carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), fiberglass, adhesives, and core materials while following engineering drawings, work instructions, and quality standards. Successful candidates will have strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience using hand tools and manufacturing equipment in a production environment. What You'll Do Composite Fabrication Perform carbon fiber (CFRP), fiberglass, and composite layup activities using prepreg and wet layup materials. Prepare molds, tools, materials, and assemblies according to work instructions and engineering specifications. Apply bonding adhesives and assemble composite structures and subassemblies. Follow detailed manufacturing processes to ensure high-quality production. Vacuum Bagging and Curing Prepare parts for vacuum bagging and composite curing operations. Operate ovens, autoclaves, hot bonders, and related curing equipment. Monitor cure cycles and document manufacturing activities. Ensure all processing requirements are completed according to specifications. Finishing and Repair Trim, drill, sand, route, and finish composite components to required dimensions. Perform composite repairs and rework when necessary. Use hand and power tools safely and effectively while maintaining quality standards. Inspection and Quality Conduct visual and dimensional inspections throughout the manufacturing process. Identify defects such as voids, delamination, cracking, or bonding issues. Accurately document inspection results and production records. Work closely with Quality and Engineering teams to resolve issues and improve processes. Safety and Housekeeping Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment. Follow all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and contamination control standards. Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency. Required Qualifications High School Diploma or GED. Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and work instructions. Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail. Experience using hand tools, power tools, measuring devices, and shop equipment. Ability to work in a manufacturing or production environment. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods. Preferred Qualifications Experience with composite manufacturing, carbon fiber, fiberglass, or aerospace structures. Experience with vacuum bagging, bonding, and composite curing processes. Experience operating autoclaves, ovens, or other composite processing equipment. Aerospace, aviation, satellite, defense, automotive, marine, or wind-energy manufacturing experience. Familiarity with AS9100 or aerospace quality standards. Experience working in a cleanroom or controlled manufacturing environment. Preferred Qualifications Aerospace, aviation, spacecraft, defense, automotive racing, marine, or wind-energy composite experience. Experience with carbon fiber fabrication and repair. Experience with vacuum bagging and autoclave operations. Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles. Composite certification or related technical training. Physical Requirements and Work Environment: Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time. Ability to use hands and fingers to perform repetitive and precision tasks. Ability to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel, and reach as required to perform job duties. Ability to communicate effectively, including talking and hearing. Ability to work in, on, around, and in proximity to large structures, equipment, and tooling. Ability to lift, push, and/or carry items up to 15 pounds as required. Ability to work near moving mechanical parts and equipment. Ability to work in and around tight or confined spaces. Ability to work in environments that may include exposure to fumes, airborne particles, and/or hazardous materials (e.g., carbon fiber). Ability to work in an office setting with periodic exposure to operational, manufacturing, warehouse, or production areas. Ability to work in environments may include moderate noise levels when entering operational or manufacturing spaces. Ability to work in multiple departments, buildings, or operational areas during the workday. Ability to work in extended computer usage and prolonged periods at a workstation. Benefits: (Eligibility dependent) Medical, dental, vision 401(k) (pre-tax and Roth) Life insurance, disability coverage HSA Benefits Employee Assistance Program PTO / sick leave Relocation Support (If You Accept) Up to $5,000 in Temporary Housing $1,050/month stipend to support living arrangements after 1st working month on an ongoing basis