Lead Composite Technician

Mach Industries•Huntington Beach, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 220 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition. Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security. As a Lead Composites Technician, you will fabricate, assemble, and finish composite structures that make up our unmanned defense systems. You will support both rapid prototypes (where speed and adaptability are key) and production builds (where consistency and precision drive mission success). In addition to performing hands-on work at a high level, you will serve as a technical leader for the composites team, mentoring junior technicians and helping maintain quality and efficiency.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
2+ years of hands-on composite fabrication in aerospace, defense, automotive, or marine applications.
Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring equipment.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and work instructions.
Comfortable wearing full PPE.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-expectation environment with tight tolerances.
Physical capability to lift 25+ lbs, stand for long periods, and work in cleanroom/controlled environments.

Nice To Haves

Experience with prototype composite builds where processes are not fully defined.
Familiarity with structural bonding, secondary bonding, and composite repair.
Knowledge of defense or aerospace quality standards.
Cross-trained in related areas: paint, coatings, metallics, or assembly.
Experience supporting both development and production environments.
Previous experience mentoring or training other technicians.

Responsibilities

Perform lay-up, bagging, curing, trimming, and finishing of composite parts using prepreg, wet layup, and resin infusion techniques.
Operate ovens and vacuum systems to cure composite structures.
Trim and machine cured composite assemblies to tight tolerances.
Drill, bond, fasten, and assemble composite substructures into final hardware.
Conduct in-process inspections, measuring tolerances and identifying defects.
Support prototype builds: adapting methods, iterating with engineers, and recording lessons learned.
Support production builds: following controlled work instructions, ensuring repeatability, and meeting takt time.
Handle sensitive materials and maintain clean work environments to prevent contamination.
Maintain tooling and fixtures, reporting wear, and supporting continuous improvement.
Uphold safety, quality, and documentation standards in line with defense hardware requirements.
Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior technicians on composite processes and best practices.