Composite Fabricator, Entry bei Scaled Composites

The Composite Fabricator plays a crucial role in a dynamic research and development setting, focusing on the fabrication of composite structures. Collaborating closely with both shop and engineering teams, this individual contributes to the assembly and fabrication processes. Proficient in working with epoxy resin systems in wet and pre-preg forms, as well as materials such as fiberglass, kevlar, carbon fiber, foam core, and honeycomb core, the Fabricator crafts high-quality composite components and structures. Operating within a fast-paced environment, they demonstrate expertise in the intricate processes of composite fabrication, ensuring precision and excellence in the creation of innovative and durable products.

Category: Manufacturing

Location: Mojave, CA

Citizenship Required: United States Citizenship

Clearance Type: Secret

Schedule: 9/80 Work Schedule

Relocation Assistance: Relocation assistance may be available

Benefits: 100% Paid Benefits and 401k Matching 

Summary: 

Founded by legendary aircraft designer Burt Rutan, Scaled Composites is a 40-year-old aerospace company continually working to push boundaries, prove out ideas, and influence the future. We are a rapid prototyping and manufacturing facility, designing, building, and testing proof-of-concept and prototype vehicles. We have flown an average of one new aircraft type per year over our 42-year history such as Proteus, GlobalFlyer, SpaceShipOne, Model 401, and Stratolaunch.

Duties and Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to: 

• Collaborating closely with leads and engineers to execute precise directives for the manufacturing of composite components and structures.
• Engaging with program personnel to support the construction of composite elements through attentive teamwork.
• Assisting in the fabrication of tooling and orchestrating necessary setups essential for the production of composite components and structures.
• Preparing molds for room temperature or heat-cured lay-ups to ensure optimal results.
• Ensuring the accurate verification of resin ratios and expertly blending epoxy resin components for wet lay-ups and assemblies.
• Placing composite components in molds utilizing epoxy pre-preg or wet resin systems to create components of various sizes.
• Performing vacuum bagging processes on composite components, adjusting settings to diverse applications per SP or MOT’s guidelines, with potential oven curing based on resin system and application.
• Working with wet resin systems and fillers to construct composite assemblies to exacting standards.
• Cutting, trimming, fitting, and drilling components using hand/bench tools and measuring devices to uphold specified tolerances.

Basic Skills and Qualifications:

• Minimum of High School diploma or GED certificate.
• Experience in the use of fabrication equipment (scissors, knives, measuring devices, grinders, jig saws, skill saws, drills, band saws, disc grinders, table saws, drill presses and planers.) 
• Basic knowledge of simple calculations, such as: add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers, fractions, and decimals and convert whole numbers into fractions.
• Proficient in reading and exposed to MOT s and drawings.
• Proficiency in the use of measuring tools such as scales and calipers.
• Ability to work autonomously, with close supervision and general direction.
• Ability to adapt to configuration changes common in research and development.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and self-starter
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Good time management skills with ability to meet deadlines.

Essential Functions:

• Office/Shop setting (completed)
• Occasional lifting up to 50+ lbs., with assistance
• Standing 60% of the day
• Required to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment for an assigned task.
• Occasional work with composite materials such as epoxy resin systems, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and foam/core products. Will also work closely with chemicals, such as acetone and alcohol.
• May infrequently require lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling materials weighing up to 30 pounds. 
• Manual dexterity and coordination are required; repetitive hand motion (e.g., to operate e computer keyboard) 
• Work on varied work surfaces/environments, including but not limited to working in a busy shop environment, cold room, or in/on aircraft structures including raised platforms including but not limited to ladders, scaffolding, and stairs.
• Work may be performed inside or outside of buildings. May be exposed to changing weather conditions (i.e. article or aircraft testing operations).
• Must be able to pass and maintain ‘pass’ status on OSHA-approved Pulmonary Fitness Test (PFT) in order to wear a respirator for prolonged periods of time.
• Vision at close distances and the ability to adjust focus for prolonged periods (i.e., computer screen)
• Ability to remain sedentary or stationary for prolonged periods of time 
• Ability to write for extended periods of time 
• Ability to work in an office setting for prolonged periods of time
• May be asked to carry up to 20 lbs. up and down a flight of stairs on a regular basis such as files, books, office equipment, etc. 
• Occasional reaching overhead and lifting up to 15 pounds
• Ability to converse and communicate information with others
• Occasional exposure to chemical vapors and/or fumes in low non-hazardous concentration
• Potential to climb up and down steps on a daily basis
• Must have sufficient agility to work in the interior of an aircraft structure. Will need to bend, stoop, squat, and/or kneel to occasionally work in cramped, tiring, and uncomfortable positions.
• Must be able to read and understand SDS.