Composite Rapid Development Technician

Joby Aviation•Santa Cruz, CA
•$30 - $46

About The Position

Joby Aviation is seeking a highly organized, self-motivated, and detail-oriented Composite Development Technician for its Composite Rapid Development Department. The role supports rapid prototyping, testing, and future aircraft development in an R&D environment. The technician takes aerospace parts and assemblies from engineering drawings through tooling, lamination, trimming, fitting, bonded or fastened assembly, integration, paint preparation, and final painting. The position requires extensive hands-on composite fabrication experience, problem-solving ability, and the capacity to work independently and collaboratively with multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • At least 5 years of experience in a high-paced composite prototyping or aerospace R&D environment.
  • Hands-on expertise in prepreg, wet layup, VARTM, RTM, compression molding, sandwich lamination, and complex vacuum bagging.
  • Strong hand-tool, carpentry, and tool-detailing and repair skills.
  • Experience with structural bond preparation processes, paste adhesives, aerospace fastener types, and installation techniques.
  • Proficiency in cosmetic bodywork, paint preparation, and spraying using RP and HVLP equipment.
  • Ability to read, interpret, and execute engineering drawings and ply books.
  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills, including the ability to resolve issues independently.
  • Verbal and written communication skills for cross-functional collaboration.
  • Adaptability to shifting priorities in a high-mix development shop, with flexibility to work extended hours or weekends when needed to meet critical deadlines.

Nice To Haves

  • Associate or bachelor’s degree in a technical or manufacturing discipline.
  • Familiarity with GD&T and CAD.
  • Hands-on experience operating ply cutters, autoclaves, presses, or curing ovens.

Responsibilities

  • Take complex aerospace parts or assemblies from engineering drawings through to deliverable hardware.
  • Build and detail tooling and perform precise composite layups to meet engineered drawing tolerances and specifications.
  • Trim and fit components; perform structural bonding, mechanical fastening, composite repairs, and modifications.
  • Perform bodywork, priming, surface preparation, and final topcoat painting.
  • Partner with multidisciplinary engineering teams to refine, iterate, and improve R&D components.

Benefits

  • Paid time off.
  • Healthcare benefits.
  • 401(k) plan with company match.
  • Employee stock purchase plan (ESPP).
  • Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
  • Life insurance.
  • Restricted Stock Units (RSUs).
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