Automated Ply Cutter Operator - Composites

Saildrone • Alameda, CA

3d • $35 - $45

About The Position

Saildrone is seeking an Automated Ply Cutter Operator / Composites Technician to support production of its uncrewed surface vehicles. Reporting to the Senior Director of Composite Manufacturing, this hands-on role operates automated cutting equipment, prepares precision composite kits, and supports CNC machining to enable efficient, high-quality composite fabrication. The technician is expected to take ownership of equipment, material accuracy, and production readiness, and to flexibly support cutting operations and composite manufacturing.

Requirements

• At least 2 years of hands-on experience operating an Eastman automated ply cutter or equivalent cutting table, such as Zünd, Lectra, or Gerber.
• Working knowledge of composite materials, including carbon fiber, fiberglass, aramid, prepregs, core materials, and resin systems.
• Basic familiarity with nesting software, such as Eastman CutPro, TruNest, or Optitex, and ability to interpret engineering drawings and ply orientation charts.
• Strong attention to detail and organization, including accurate kit labeling, material tracking, and inspection of cut components.
• Ability to identify and troubleshoot routine equipment or cutting issues and maintain consistent quality in a production environment.
• Ability to handle material rolls weighing up to 50 pounds, stand for extended periods, and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ability to work collaboratively with composite fabrication and manufacturing teams to meet production priorities and schedules.

Nice To Haves

• Experience operating 3-axis or 5-axis CNC routers to trim composite parts and manufacture molds, jigs, tooling, or fixtures.

Responsibilities

• Set up, calibrate, operate, and perform routine maintenance on Eastman automated ply cutting equipment to meet production requirements.
• Import DXF/CAD files into nesting software and optimize cutting layouts to maximize material yield and minimize scrap.
• Cut, label, organize, and kit carbon fiber, fiberglass, core materials, and dry fabrics according to engineering ply books and orientation requirements.
• Inspect cut plies for dimensional accuracy, fiber alignment, and edge quality before releasing kits to composite fabrication.
• Track material shelf life, freezer inventory, roll usage, and lot numbers to support material traceability and quality control.
• Support composite fabrication processes, including infusion, prepreg layup, vacuum bagging, and debulking, as production needs require.
• Operate CNC routers, as qualified, to trim and drill cured composite parts and produce molds, jigs, and tooling.
• Maintain cutting and machining equipment, tooling, and work areas; troubleshoot routine issues, replace consumables, follow safety procedures, and escalate equipment or quality concerns.

Benefits

• Competitive paid time off (PTO) accrual, an annual holiday schedule, and paid sick leave.
• Medical, dental, and vision plans with company contributions for employees and dependents.
• Equity grants.
• 401(k) retirement plan with pre-tax and Roth contribution options.
• Annual professional development reimbursement program.
• Relocation assistance for eligible roles.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed