Composite Operator - Level II - V22

GKN Aerospace Careers•Tallassee, AL

8h•Onsite

About The Position

GKN Aerospace is a company focused on reimagining air travel, aiming for further, faster, and greener solutions. They are driven by expert and creative individuals, committed to innovation, and dedicated to sustainability. With over 16,000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries, GKN Aerospace serves over 90% of the world's aircraft and engine manufacturers, achieving sales of £3.35 billion in 2023. The company emphasizes career growth and a diverse, inclusive work environment. Under general supervision, the Composite Operator Level II independently performs a range of composite manufacturing operations to fabricate, assemble, and process composite parts and assemblies specifically for the V 22 Bell program. This role requires proficiency in multiple composite processes, working from detailed engineering documentation, ensuring compliance with Bell and aerospace quality standards, and providing technical support and guidance to Level I operators.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required
2 - 5 years of experience in composite manufacturing or aerospace assembly
Demonstrated experience performing composite layup, wrap, bond, or trim operations with minimal supervision
Must be a U.S. Person per ITAR regulations to comply with export compliance requirements, with ability to obtain a Department of Defense security clearance if needed
Proficient understanding of composite materials and manufacturing processes
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, ply books, and work instructions
Strong attention to detail and quality ownership
Good manual dexterity and hand eye coordination
Ability to troubleshoot basic process and quality issues
Effective communication skills and ability to mentor less experienced operators
Ability to work independently while supporting team objectives

Nice To Haves

Experience working in a regulated aerospace or defense manufacturing environment preferred

Responsibilities

Independently perform composite layup, wrap, bonding, trimming, drilling, and assembly operations for V 22 composite parts and subassemblies
Execute ply placement, orientation, sequencing, and consolidation per engineering drawings, ply books, and work instructions
Perform vacuum bagging, debulking, leak checks, and preparation of composite components for curing
Join, assemble, and integrate composite structures and detail parts in accordance with program and process specifications
Identify and correct common composite defects such as wrinkles, bridging, ply misalignment, or contamination
Prepare composite materials including thawing, cutting, kitting, staging, and out time control
Properly handle prepreg, dry fiber, resins, adhesives, sealants, and consumables to ensure material integrity
Apply release agents, peel ply, breather, bleeder, films, and tapes per approved processes
Ensure material identification, labeling, and traceability in compliance with Bell V 22 program requirements
Work independently from engineering drawings, specifications, work instructions, and routers
Perform self-inspection of work to verify compliance with quality, dimensional, and visual standards
Accurately complete production documentation, inspection records, and electronic systems
Identify, document, and communicate non conformances, defects, or process deviations
Support Quality and Engineering during inspections, investigations, and corrective actions
Provide technical guidance and on the job training to Level I Composite Operators
Support onboarding, cross training, and skill development initiatives
Participate in continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, and process optimization activities
Assist with prototype builds, rework, and development efforts as required
Comply with all Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) requirements and Bell program safety standards
Properly use personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators and protective clothing
Maintain a clean, organized, and FOD free work area
Properly segregate and dispose of composite waste, chemicals, and consumables per company and regulatory requirements
Safely perform work in confined or restricted spaces including aircraft structures, subassemblies, tooling, and enclosed composite components
Perform composite layup, bonding, trimming, inspection, or assembly tasks while working in limited access areas that may restrict movement, visibility, or positioning
Work in awkward positions for extended periods, including kneeling, crouching, bending, reaching, or working overhead
Comply with all confined space awareness entry required training, safety procedures, and signage requirements as defined by site EHS and program standards
Maintain situational awareness and follow communication protocols while working in enclosed or restricted environments
Properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilation equipment, and monitoring devices when working in confined and limited access spaces
Immediately report unsafe conditions, physical discomfort, or hazards encountered while working in confined spaces to supervision