Composites and Paint Technician

Space Dynamics Laboratory•North Logan, UT

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a Composite and Paint Technician responsible for the fabrication, finishing, and coating of composite components in a controlled manufacturing environment. This dual-skilled role requires both structural precision and cosmetic excellence. The position supports high-quality production through strict adherence to process controls, material handling requirements, and quality standards, including AS9100. It operates in a fast-paced, high-expectation environment where attention to detail directly impacts product performance and appearance. The role involves working with various materials like carbon fiber, foil, and Kapton, and utilizing techniques such as hand layup, pre-preg layup, vacuum bagging, and oven curing. It also encompasses paint and surface finishing tasks, including sanding, cleaning, masking, solvent wiping, and applying various coatings using spray equipment. The technician must interpret technical documentation, maintain environmental controls, complete thorough documentation for traceability, conduct visual inspections, and safely handle hazardous materials.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
5+ years of hands-on professional experience in composite layup or industrial paint application
Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and detailed work instructions
Strong attention to detail with a focus on both structural integrity and cosmetic quality
Proven ability to troubleshoot defects, train others, and contribute to process improvements
Understanding of cure cycles, pot life, and coating application windows
Ability to work within strict process controls and high-quality standards
Basic computer skills for tracking work and completing documentation
Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., or other U.S. person

Nice To Haves

Experience in aerospace or other high-specification manufacturing environments
Familiarity with: Oven and/or autoclave curing processes
Adhesive bonding and surface preparation standards
Spray systems and coating thickness control techniques
Knowledge of defect detection, repair methods, and rework processes (composite and paint)
Experience working in controlled environments such as clean rooms or paint booths
Demonstrated focus on material efficiency and waste reduction
5+ years of hands-on experience in composite layup AND industrial paint application

Responsibilities

Performs all aspects of composite panel fabrication, including hand layup and pre-preg layup of materials such as carbon fiber, foil, and Kapton
Executes vacuum bagging processes and prepare parts for oven curing
Works with resin and adhesive systems and completes finishing of cured parts to specification
Performs paint and surface finishing tasks, including sanding, cleaning, masking (software-driven cutting), solvent wiping, and coating application
Mixes and applies primers, topcoats, and specialty coatings using spray equipment (HVLP, pressure pot, etc.)
Reads and interprets work instructions, engineering drawings, laminate schedules, and technical documentation
Maintains exceptional quality and attention to detail throughout all fabrication and finishing processes
Monitors and controls environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, and contamination
Completes required documentation to ensure compliance and full traceability in both physical and digital systems
Conducts visual inspections and basic non-destructive evaluations to identify defects
Safely handles hazardous materials (resins, catalysts, solvents, coatings) in accordance with PPE and ventilation requirements
Maintains a clean, organized, and compliant work environment
Supports continuous improvement efforts related to yield, rework reduction, and material utilization