Automated Fiber Placement Engineer

Janicki Industries•Hamilton, WA

57m•$83,000 - $145,000•Onsite

About The Position

Janicki Industries is an innovative, family-owned aerospace company located at the foot of the Cascades. We focus on engineering and manufacturing complex projects for companies in the aerospace, defense, and space industries. We are looking for a Automated Fiber Placement Engineer to join our growing team. This position is located on-site in Hamilton, WA. POSITION DESCRIPTION The Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) Engineer is responsible for the programming, development, and optimization of automated composite layup processes using Electroimpact AFP systems. This role supports production and engineering by generating precise ply programs, improving part quality, reducing cycle time, and troubleshooting AFP-related issues in the manufacture of complex aerospace components. The AFP Engineer works closely with design engineering, operations, quality, and maintenance teams.

Requirements

Due to our ITAR and EAR regulations, applicants must be a US Citizen or of Legal Permanent Resident Status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b (a) (3).
This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). Janicki will assist with gaining this access once employed. Special Access Program or other Government Access Requirements are mandatory for this position and requires candidate agreed to enter a Continuous Evaluation program.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related technical field required
2+ years of experience in composite manufacturing or AFP process engineering
Proficiency with Electroimpact AFP equipment, software, and interfaces (e.g., AFP programming environment, ply simulation tools)
Solid understanding of composite ply orientation, layup strategies, tool paths, and material behavior (e.g., thermosets and thermoplastics)
Familiarity with CAD software (such as CATIA V5, Siemens NX, or SolidWorks)
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced production environment
Must have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written in the English language

Responsibilities

Develop AFP ply programs for composite parts using Electroimpact programming tools and simulation software, ensuring conformance to design intent and manufacturing constraints
Translate engineering models, ply books, and lamination schedules into executable AFP paths with accurate fiber orientation, coverage, and boundaries
Support Electroimpact machine setup, calibration, and laser alignment for first article and repeatable production runs
Analyze and optimize machine pathing to minimize defects (e.g., gaps, overlaps, tow steering errors), improve machine efficiency, and extend tool life
Review and validate AFP programs with simulations and dry runs, working alongside operators during production start-ups
Collaborate with design engineering to provide design for manufacturability (DFM) feedback for composite parts intended for AFP
Investigate and resolve machine and process-related issues, working cross-functionally with maintenance and Electroimpact technical support as needed
Participate in tooling design reviews to ensure compatibility with AFP head dimensions, access, and laser projection systems
Implement and document process improvements, material usage reductions, and automation enhancements
Develop and maintain standard work instructions, AFP best practices, and process documentation
Support audits, root cause investigations, and corrective actions involving AFP-manufactured parts
Maintains composure under pressure while successfully managing multiple deadlines
Being at work on time and maintaining good attendance is a condition of employment and is an essential function of the job
Must have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written in the English language
Perform other duties as assigned

Benefits

Salary range for this role is between $83,000 - $145,000, plus discretionary bonus, 401(k) matching, vacation, and health benefits.
Employees can also receive additional pay for off-shifts.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance with employer contribution
Disability insurance as well as Life/AD&D insurance
HSA (Health Savings Account) with employer contribution and FSA (Flexible Savings Account)
401k with employer matching
Paid time off and paid holidays (including two floating holidays)
Education reimbursement program
Several shift options
Premium pay for off-shifts