Low Observable Coater

Lockheed Martin•Pinellas Park, FL

18h•Onsite

About The Position

Performs all low observable (LO) coating applications on completed canopy assemblies, including boot installation and LO specific treatments. Plans and prepare each job by reviewing blueprints, engineering specifications, and work orders to determine the optimal sequence of operations, the exact quantity of parts required, and the most efficient set up method. Sets up and operates coating expendables, selecting and using the appropriate hand tools as well as precision measurement tools to verify dimensions and ensure correct coating thickness. Performs standard shop calculations for preparation, flash-offs, cure cycles, and documents all required data collections in the manufacturing execution system. Monitors and verifies product quality using F-35 specifications, in process inspections with quality assurance, and established control plans, adjusting as needed to maintain compliance with engineering tolerances. Collects, enters, and maintains all required data and documentation, ensuring adherence to Lockheed Martin’s safety, environmental, and quality standards. F 35 Canopy – Low Observable (LO) Coating Technician Key Responsibilities Surface Preparation & Protection – Strip, clean, sand, and chemically treat aircraft exterior panels and acrylic canopy sections; apply masking, primers, and anti corrosion treatments in accordance with MIL STD specifications. LO Coating Application – Mix, meter, and spray low observable coatings, fastener gap fillers, and sealants; install thermal/stealth boot assemblies while maintaining required thickness tolerances. Precision Hand Rolling & Masking – Hand roll and mask acrylic and sheet metal surfaces to achieve seamless finish transitions around complex geometries and connector interfaces. Blueprint & Work Order Interpretation – Read and analyze engineering drawings, schematics, and work orders to determine the optimal operation sequence, part count, and set up configuration; develop lay out plans that minimize re work. Tool & Instrument Utilization – Select and operate a full range of hand, power, and pneumatic tools; employ precision measuring devices (micrometers, laser gauges, thickness gauges, digital calipers) to verify dimensions and coating thicknesses to ±0.005 in. Process Calculations & Documentation – Perform shop floor calculations for surface preparation times, coating cure cycles, and bake out parameters; record all data in the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and update work orders as required. Quality Assurance – Work with quality assurance to conduct in process inspections using Statistical Process Control (SPC) guidance and established control plans; identify deviations, adjust process variables, and document corrective actions as directed. Data Management – Capture, enter, and maintain production, inspection, and material lot data; generate required reports for traceability and compliance audits. Physical Demands – Routinely stoop, bend, kneel, and squat while working inside or around the canopy assembly; lift and maneuver components up to 20 lb using approved lifting techniques. Additional Duties – Perform any other tasks assigned to support schedule adherence, safety compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives. Physical Capability – Able to stoop, kneel, squat, and lift/push/pull up to 20 lb on occasion during a 10 hour shift.

Requirements

1 year minimum of experience with composite/LO application.
Must have high school diploma/GED.
Experience with reading blueprints, interpret drawings, and use MS office software.
Experience with sanding tools, cutters, brushes, templates, and hand rollers.

Nice To Haves

F-117, F-22, F-35, B-2, or LO manufacturing experience
Direct work with LO paints, radar absorbent sealants, gap filler compounds, and stealth boot systems on F 35 or comparable aircraft.
Familiarity with the full LO process flow: material mixing, temperature controlled topcoat application, thickness understanding, and post cure inspection.
Ability to read and follow the specific handling, storage, and safety data sheets (SDS) that govern LO chemistries (e.g., MIL PRF 38534, MIL STD 1540).
Clear, concise verbal reporting to supervisors, engineers, and quality personnel
Effective collaboration with cross functional teams—including design engineers, production planners, and safety
Daily use electronic work orders such as Solumina or similar types, ensuring all required fields (part numbers, material lot numbers, dates) are accurately entered.
Use of Outlook for electronic correspondence from leadership team, support departments, and other related use such as calendar/ training events.

Responsibilities

Surface Preparation & Protection – Strip, clean, sand, and chemically treat aircraft exterior panels and acrylic canopy sections; apply masking, primers, and anti corrosion treatments in accordance with MIL STD specifications.
LO Coating Application – Mix, meter, and spray low observable coatings, fastener gap fillers, and sealants; install thermal/stealth boot assemblies while maintaining required thickness tolerances.
Precision Hand Rolling & Masking – Hand roll and mask acrylic and sheet metal surfaces to achieve seamless finish transitions around complex geometries and connector interfaces.
Blueprint & Work Order Interpretation – Read and analyze engineering drawings, schematics, and work orders to determine the optimal operation sequence, part count, and set up configuration; develop lay out plans that minimize re work.
Tool & Instrument Utilization – Select and operate a full range of hand, power, and pneumatic tools; employ precision measuring devices (micrometers, laser gauges, thickness gauges, digital calipers) to verify dimensions and coating thicknesses to ±0.005 in.
Process Calculations & Documentation – Perform shop floor calculations for surface preparation times, coating cure cycles, and bake out parameters; record all data in the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and update work orders as required.
Quality Assurance – Work with quality assurance to conduct in process inspections using Statistical Process Control (SPC) guidance and established control plans; identify deviations, adjust process variables, and document corrective actions as directed.
Data Management – Capture, enter, and maintain production, inspection, and material lot data; generate required reports for traceability and compliance audits.
Physical Demands – Routinely stoop, bend, kneel, and squat while working inside or around the canopy assembly; lift and maneuver components up to 20 lb using approved lifting techniques.
Additional Duties – Perform any other tasks assigned to support schedule adherence, safety compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives.