Automated Fiber Placement Technician

External•Hamilton, WA

3d•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 Technician to join our growing team. This position is located on-site in Hamilton, Washington State. The Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) Technician is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining AFP equipment—specifically Electroimpact AFP systems—to fabricate high-precision composite parts and structures for aerospace applications. This role requires proficiency in machine control interfaces, composite layup processes, and quality assurance methods in a high-performance manufacturing environment.

Requirements

Must be a US Citizen or of Legal Permanent Resident Status
Ability to obtain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required)
Must agree to enter a Continuous Evaluation program
High school diploma or GED
Basic mechanical and troubleshooting skills, or demonstrated ability to learn mechanical systems, tools, and equipment
Comfortable learning structured processes, documenting work, and following quality and safety procedures
Must have effective verbal and written communication skills in the English language

Nice To Haves

1+ years of experience operating AFP, CNC, robotic, or other automated equipment in aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, machining, or related technical fields
Strong mechanical aptitude, technical coursework, or hands-on experience (school projects, trade programs, internships, military experience, maker/DIY background)
Familiarity with Electroimpact AFP systems or similar automated composite layup machines
Ability to read or willingness to learn to read engineering drawings, ply schedules, and manufacturing documentation
Understanding of fiber orientation angles and composite layup quality standards preferred

Responsibilities

Operate Electroimpact AFP machines, including system setup, loading programs, and verifying proper alignment of materials and tooling
Use Electroimpact's proprietary interface and control software to manage ply sequences, tow paths, and machine diagnostics
Load and manage material such as prepreg spools into the Electroimpact AFP head, ensuring proper tension and tracking
Perform dry runs, calibrations, and material path verifications using the Electroimpact laser projection system (e.g., Virtek or LAP)
Monitor the AFP process for fiber bridging, tow drops, overlaps, and gaps, ensuring adherence to ply boundaries and fiber orientation
Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing technicians to implement work instructions, part programs, and configuration changes specific to Electroimpact systems
Conduct routine maintenance and troubleshooting of Electroimpact AFP equipment, including tow placement heads, compaction rollers, and vision systems
Perform post-process documentation including fiber placement records, machine logs, and defect tracking
Support process optimization by providing feedback on Electroimpact machine performance, downtime issues, and layup strategies