Composite Technician

Aerospace Composite Technician
Location: Huntersville, NC
Department: Operations / Manufacturing
Reports To: Composites Fabrication & Assembly Operations Manager

Company Description

JGA Space & Defense is a leading manufacturer of advanced composites and precision machined components for aerospace, space, and defense industries. Founded as Joe Gibbs Manufacturing Solutions, JGA evolved from high-performance racing to provide mission-critical solutions for national security and space exploration. With decades of expertise in solid rocket motor hardware such as rocket nozzle insulators and assemblies, the company is dedicated to advancing the U.S. defense supply chain. Operating from its Huntersville, North Carolina facility, JGA supports next-generation technologies for space and defense applications. JGA Space & Defense is seeking six (6) skilled Aerospace Composite Technician professionals to join our growing manufacturing team. We are hiring for both first and second shift opportunities to support current production requirements and future business growth.

We are seeking:

• Three (3) Composite Technicians – First (Day) Shift
• Three (3) Composite Technicians – Second (Night) Shift

Please indicate your preferred shift when completing your application and again during the interview process. While we will make every effort to accommodate your preference, shift placement will ultimately be based on business needs, qualifications, and position availability.

First (Day) Shift

• Schedule: Monday – Thursday
• Hours: 6:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Work Schedule: Four (4) 10-hour shifts per week
• Meal Break: One (1) hour unpaid lunch break

Second (Night) Shift

• Schedule: Monday – Thursday
• Hours: 3:30 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
• Work Schedule: Four (4) 10-hour shifts per week
• Meal Break: Thirty (30) minute unpaid meal break
• Shift Differential: Employees assigned to second shift receive an additional $3.00 per hour above the applicable base hourly rate.

Important: We are specifically seeking candidates who are interested in and available to work the shift for which they apply. If you are applying for a second-shift position, please ensure you are able and willing to work the scheduled hours. Candidates selected for second shift will be expected to remain on that shift based on business needs.

Candidates must be available to work the shift for which they are selected.
Position Summary

The Aerospace Composite Technician is responsible for the fabrication, assembly, processing, and finishing of advanced composite components used in aerospace, space, and defense applications. This role performs composite layup, vacuum bagging, autoclave/hydroclave processing, bonding, machining support, and inspection activities in accordance with engineering specifications, manufacturing work instructions, and AS9100 quality requirements.
The ideal candidate possesses hands-on experience working with aerospace-grade composite materials and demonstrates a strong understanding of composite manufacturing processes, quality standards, and traceability requirements. Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Composite Fabrication & Processing

• Perform composite layup of prepreg, dry fiber, honeycomb core, and other advanced composite materials according to engineering drawings and manufacturing work instructions.
• Execute vacuum bagging, debulking, curing, and autoclave/hydroclave processing operations.
• Prepare molds, tooling, fixtures, and materials for composite fabrication activities.
• Trim, drill, sand, route, machine, and finish composite components to engineering specifications and tolerances.
• Perform adhesive bonding, potting, and assembly of composite structures and subassemblies.
• Operate cutting, trimming, and fabrication equipment safely and effectively.

Quality & Compliance

• Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, work instructions, and travelers.
• Perform in-process inspections to verify dimensional accuracy and workmanship standards.
• Ensure full traceability of materials, components, and manufacturing activities.
• Accurately complete manufacturing documentation and quality records.
• Support AS9100, customer, and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Identify and report nonconforming material, workmanship, or process deviations.

Production Support

• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Manufacturing teams to resolve production issues.
• Assist in troubleshooting composite fabrication and curing processes.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, efficiency, and cost reduction.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with 5S and safety standards.

Qualifications

Required

• High School Diploma or GED.
• 2–5 years of composite manufacturing experience or equivalent.
• Experience with vacuum bagging and composite layup techniques.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and manufacturing instructions.
• Experience working in a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.

Preferred

• Aerospace, defense, or space industry experience.
• Experience with autoclave or hydroclave processing.
• Knowledge of AS9100 quality systems.
• Experience with adhesive bonding and composite assembly.
• Familiarity with composite trimming, drilling, and finishing operations.
• Experience working with carbon fiber, fiberglass, honeycomb core, and aerospace-grade prepreg materials.
• Forklift and overhead crane experience.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, composite materials, dust, adhesives, solvents, and curing equipment.
• Required use of PPE including safety glasses, gloves, respirators (as required), and hearing protection.
• May require overtime and weekend work based on production schedules and customer demand.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive pay based on experience.
• Opportunities for advancement and skill development.
• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• 401(k) matching
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health savings account
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance