Composite Technician

STC•Hampton, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Science and Technology Corporation (STC) is seeking a highly skilled Composite Technician to join our team supporting the Manufacturing Applications Branch (MAB) at NASA Langley Research Center. This is a unique opportunity to work side-by-side with NASA engineers, researchers, and technicians developing advanced aerospace systems, wind tunnel models, flight hardware, and one-of-a-kind research articles that support the future of aviation and space exploration. Unlike traditional manufacturing environments, every project presents new challenges and opportunities. The successful candidate will help fabricate precision composite structures used in cutting-edge aerospace research programs while working in one of NASA's premier fabrication facilities. If you take pride in craftsmanship, enjoy solving technical challenges, and want to build hardware that directly supports aerospace innovation, we want to hear from you.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Minimum of 3 years of hands-on composite fabrication experience in aerospace, aviation, marine, motorsports, defense, advanced manufacturing, or related industries.
Experience working with carbon fiber, fiberglass, Kevlar, prepreg materials, and structural adhesives.
Experience performing vacuum bagging and composite curing operations.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation.
Experience using hand tools, power tools, shop equipment, and precision measuring instruments.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to obtain and maintain required NASA facility access credentials and successfully complete required background screening.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting aerospace or flight hardware programs.
Experience operating autoclaves and cure systems utilizing AVPro, ASC, Eurotherm, or similar software platforms.
Experience operating Eastman Plycutters or similar automated cutting systems.
Familiarity with CAD software and Microsoft 365 applications.
Experience with composite repair, tabbing, bonding, and structural assembly processes.
Experience operating forklifts, overhead cranes, or material handling equipment.
Experience estimating labor requirements and planning fabrication activities.

Responsibilities

Fabricate advanced composite components, research models, tooling, and flight hardware using established aerospace manufacturing practices.
Perform composite layups utilizing carbon fiber, fiberglass, Kevlar, prepreg materials, dry fabrics, and resin-infused systems.
Work with epoxy systems, structural adhesives, and bonding agents including products such as West System, Loctite, and Hysol.
Manufacture and assemble composite structures utilizing Rohacell foam, aluminum honeycomb, Nomex honeycomb, and other core materials.
Prepare molds, tooling, release systems, vacuum bag assemblies, and curing setups.
Operate vacuum systems, ovens, and autoclaves for composite curing processes.
Trim, drill, grind, sand, machine, and finish cured composite parts to engineering specifications.
Utilize precision measuring equipment including calipers, micrometers, scales, and inspection tools.
Read and interpret engineering drawings, manufacturing work instructions, process specifications, and technical documentation.
Assist with development and documentation of manufacturing processes and standard operating procedures.
Support material handling, inventory management, receiving, and storage of customer-supplied materials and hardware.
Maintain strict adherence to FOD prevention practices and NASA quality standards.
Collaborate closely with engineers, machinists, model makers, and fellow technicians to deliver high-quality products on schedule.