Title: Composites Automated Fiber Placement Programmer

Location: Space Coast, FL

Position Type: Full time

Requisition ID: R58064

Description:

Application close date:

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight! 

This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities.

The AFP Programmer – Level 2 (Time to New Glenn) is a hands-on manufacturing role responsible for supporting the production of flight-critical composite hardware for the New Glenn launch vehicle. This position focuses on developing, modifying, and executing Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) programs to meet safety, quality, and schedule commitments in a rate-production environment.

Working closely with manufacturing, engineering, and quality teams, the AFP Programmer ensures AFP programs are executed accurately, equipment is operated safely, and hardware meets engineering and specification requirements. The role requires strong attention to detail, ownership of assigned hardware, and the ability to identify and escalate issues that could impact quality or delivery. Success in this position directly contributes to first-pass yield, production readiness, and achieving New Glenn launch milestones.

Responsibilities:

• Perform all tasks in a safe, compliant, and responsible manner.

• Read, interpret, and work from engineering drawings and blueprints.

• Demonstrate a full understanding and application of GD&T.

• Utilize CAM software to create, modify, and optimize CNC and AFP programs.

• Use gauges and precision measuring instruments to verify conformance to tolerance requirements.

• Operate precision tools, machinery, and equipment, including Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) machines.

• Properly select, align, secure, and remove fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, and materials on assigned equipment.

• Recognize, deploy, and correctly utilize inserts, fixtures, and tooling required for AFP and CNC operations.

• Perform daily and routine cleaning, inspections, and light maintenance on machinery and equipment.

• Evaluate experimental and production procedures; recommend changes or improvements to increase efficiency, quality, and adaptability in AFP production setups.

• Accurately track parts, labor, and production activity within the MRP system.

• Read, interpret, and understand AFP machine code and program structure.

• Make minor edits and adjustments to AFP programs to support production needs.

• Load AFP programs and safely execute first-article and production runs.

• Adjust speeds, feeds, and process parameters to achieve optimal layup conditions and meet quality requirements.

• Ensure full compliance with company policies, quality standards, specifications, and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Eight (8) years of related CNC and/or AFP experience, with a minimum of five (5) years in programming.

• High school diploma or GED required; completion of a recognized trade school program preferred.

• Proficient use of CAM software, preferably CATIA.

• Extensive knowledge of composite materials, including cutting speeds, tooling selection, and machining/layup strategies.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to understand and execute job instructions.

• Ability to perform basic mathematical computations, including fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions.

• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw logical conclusions.

• Ability to interpret a wide variety of technical instructions presented in mathematical, written, and diagrammatic formats.

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as required, operate overhead cranes and forklifts, stand for extended periods, and meet vision requirements including close, distance, color, depth perception, and focus.

• Strong computer skills and familiarity with manufacturing systems and software tools.

Desired Qualifications:

• Ingersoll and MTorres AFP operation and programming experience.

• CGTech software experience.

• Experience with G-code programming and modification.

• Experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting, preferably using Siemens PLC platforms.

Culture Statement

Don’t meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Background Check

• Required for all positions: Blue’s Standard Background Check

• Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation

• Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only), vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.

• Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

• Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.

• Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)

• Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.

• Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on “Know Your Rights,” please see here.

Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation

Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin’s Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us at EEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.