Manufacturing Technician 1 (Autoclave) in Brea, California at APPLIED COMPOSITES INC

Location: Brea, CA
Department: Operations
Schedule: Full-Time | On-Site
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Pay Range: $18.00–$24.00 per hour

Applied Composites is seeking an Autoclave Technician I to support the manufacturing of advanced composite components for the aerospace and defense industries. This hands-on position involves preparing tools and molds, loading and unloading autoclaves and ovens, operating equipment using approved cure programs, monitoring cure cycles, and completing production documentation.

The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and an interest in specialized manufacturing processes. Candidates with experience in aerospace composites, industrial equipment operation, heat treatment, or other process-controlled manufacturing environments are encouraged to apply.

Come and join the Applied Composites team. We are a leading provider of complex composite components, assemblies, engineering and tooling to the aerospace, defense and space system markets. Our employees are treated with respect and given the support, knowledge, and resources they need to thrive. If you are looking for a company that values and develops its employees while offering engaging work, Applied Composites may be the place for you.

• Prepare tools, molds, and related equipment for composite curing operations in accordance with approved work instructions.

• Apply appropriate chemicals and mold-release agents following established procedures and applicable safety requirements.

• Load and unload tools, molds, and composite parts into and out of autoclaves and ovens.

• Select or enter approved cure cycle recipes into autoclave controllers in accordance with production travelers, work instructions, and established process specifications.

• Operate and monitor autoclaves, ovens, and associated equipment to ensure compliance with approved cure cycle requirements.

• Perform required vacuum bag leak checks and monitor vacuum integrity during cure operations.

• Read and follow production schedules, cure charts, travelers, build manuals, and applicable manufacturing instructions.

• Prepare masters and molds in accordance with engineering documentation and applicable quality requirements.

• Remove cured parts from tools and mandrels, and prepare parts for subsequent inspection or processing.

• Perform routine inspection and maintenance of autoclave and oven tooling and accessories, including hoses and thermocouples, in accordance with established procedures.

• Monitor equipment and production processes for abnormalities, deviations, or suspected nonconforming conditions and promptly notify the Lead or Manager.

• Complete required production records, equipment entries, and related documentation accurately.

• Safely operate forklifts to move tools and materials when trained and authorized.

• Identify opportunities for process improvement and communicate observations to the Lead or Manager.

• Use hand tools and production equipment safely and appropriately.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with company safety and manufacturing standards.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education

• High school diploma or GED, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and work experience.

Experience

• Minimum: 0–1 years of manufacturing or related industrial experience. Previous experience is preferred but not required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to read, understand, and follow written work instructions, production travelers, diagrams, and process specifications in English.

• Mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand tools and manufacturing equipment safely.

• Basic computer skills for equipment operation, data entry, and production documentation.

• Ability to follow established manufacturing, safety, and quality procedures.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, quality work.

• Ability to recognize and report equipment abnormalities, process deviations, and potential quality concerns.

• Manual dexterity and ability to handle tools, materials, and components accurately.

• Ability to manage assigned production tasks and meet established deadlines while maintaining safety and quality standards.

• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and coworkers.

• Ability to perform routine production assignments with general supervision following appropriate training.

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Experience

• Two or more years of relevant manufacturing or industrial experience, particularly in aerospace composites, autoclave operations, industrial ovens, heat-treatment equipment, or similar process-controlled manufacturing environments.

Additional Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing practices and quality requirements.

• Experience preparing molds, tooling, or vacuum bagging systems.

• Previous forklift operating experience; training may be provided.

• Vocational training, apprenticeship, or related technical education in manufacturing or industrial operations.

• Familiarity with Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement principles.

• Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus.

• Follow all company safety policies, established work procedures, and applicable equipment safety requirements.

• Properly handle chemicals and materials in accordance with applicable Safety Data Sheets and company procedures.

• Report unsafe conditions, equipment abnormalities, suspected nonconforming products, and potential compliance concerns promptly.

• Maintain the confidentiality and security of company and customer information.

• Cooperate with applicable safety, quality, and compliance investigations.

At Applied Composites, we recognize how important your career and benefits are to you and your family. We offer a full suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability coverage, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, basic and supplemental life insurance, employee assistance plan, retirement savings and matching, tuition reimbursement and other developmental opportunities. We are committed to supporting the way you live and work.

AC is an Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled - Affirmative Action Employer.

This position requires the use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. 'Green Card Holder'), Political Asylee, or Refugee.