ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automated Fiber Placement Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cimarron

Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) Programmer

TX · On-site

$32 - $43/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Posting/External Job Title Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) Programmer Location Briggs, TX 78608 US (Primary) Remote/Onsite/Hybrid 100% Onsite Job Type Full-time # of Hires Needed 1 Education High ...

Rocket Lab Corporation

AFP Operator - All Levels

Middle River, MD · On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Set up, calibrate, maintain, and operate the Rocket Lab Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) machine to manufacture large carbon fiber structures for the Neutron Rocket. * Clean and perform routine ...

Inversion

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$137/hr

Stand up an automated fiber placement capability, from requirements definition and machine specification through procurement, integration, and commissioning * Design, build, and iterate custom end-of ...

Inversion

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$137K - $193K/yr

Stand up an automated fiber placement capability, from requirements definition and machine specification through procurement, integration, and commissioning * Design, build, and iterate custom end-of ...

Firefly Aerospace

AFP Manufacturing Engineer II-Composites

TX · On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

SUMMARY The Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) Engineer is responsible for the development, and optimization of automated composite layup processes and overseeing the AFP programming process using ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTechnology JobsTelecommunications JobsBroadband Technician JobsAutomated Fiber Placement Jobs

Automated Fiber Placement information

See salary details

$15

$27

$45

How much do automated fiber placement jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for automated fiber placement in the United States is $27.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is automated fiber placement?

Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) is an advanced manufacturing process used in the aerospace, automotive, and wind energy industries to produce strong, lightweight composite structures. The process involves the precise placement of fiber tapes, such as carbon or glass fiber, onto a mold using a computer-controlled machine. This allows for high-speed, accurate layup of complex shapes with minimal material waste and enhanced structural performance. AFP is highly valued for its ability to automate the production of large composite parts and reduce labor costs while improving consistency and quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automated fiber placement technician?

To excel as an Automated Fiber Placement Technician, you need a solid background in composite materials, mechanical aptitude, and precision manufacturing, often supported by vocational training or an associate degree in engineering or manufacturing technology. Familiarity with automated fiber placement (AFP) machines, CAD/CAM software, and quality assurance systems is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure high-quality composite fabrication, minimize production errors, and support efficient collaboration in advanced manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by automated fiber placement technicians, and how can they be addressed on the job?

AFP technicians often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise fiber alignment, troubleshooting machine errors, and adapting to new composite material specifications. Successful technicians pay close attention to detail, follow strict safety and quality protocols, and collaborate closely with engineers and quality assurance teams to resolve issues quickly. Staying updated with the latest AFP technology and participating in ongoing training can also help address these challenges and improve overall efficiency on the production floor.

What is the difference between Automated Fiber Placement vs Composite Manufacturing Technician?

AspectAutomated Fiber PlacementComposite Manufacturing Technician
CredentialsTechnical certifications, specialized training in automationTechnical training, certifications in composite fabrication
Work EnvironmentManufacturing facilities with advanced automation equipmentWorkshops, production lines, composite fabrication labs
Industry UsagePrimarily aerospace, defense, and high-tech manufacturingVarious industries including aerospace, automotive, sports equipment

Automated Fiber Placement involves operating advanced robotic systems to lay composite materials precisely, often requiring specialized automation training. In contrast, Composite Manufacturing Technicians focus on manual or semi-automated fabrication of composite parts. While both roles work within the composite manufacturing industry, Automated Fiber Placement specialists typically work with automated machinery, whereas technicians handle broader fabrication tasks.

More about Automated Fiber Placement jobs

What cities are hiring for Automated Fiber Placement jobs?

Cities with the most Automated Fiber Placement job openings:

What states have the most Automated Fiber Placement jobs?

States with the most job openings for Automated Fiber Placement jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Automated Fiber Placement jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Automated Fiber Placement jobs are:

Automated Fiber Placement jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automated Fiber Placement job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 77% In-person, 13% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,818 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Automated Fiber Placement Technician

Janicki Industries

Hamilton, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Janicki Industries is an innovative, family-owned aerospace company located at the foot of the Cascades. We focus on engineering and manufacturing complex projects for companies in the aerospace, defense, and space industries. We are looking for a Automated Fiber Placement Technician to join our growing team.
This position is located on-site in Hamilton, Washington State.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
The Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) Technician is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining AFP equipment-specifically Electroimpact AFP systems-to fabricate high-precision composite parts and structures for aerospace applications. This role requires proficiency in machine control interfaces, composite layup processes, and quality assurance methods in a high-performance manufacturing environment. The position requires execution of the following essential job functions:
  • Operate Electroimpact AFP machines, including system setup, loading programs, and verifying proper alignment of materials and tooling
  • Use Electroimpact's proprietary interface and control software to manage ply sequences, tow paths, and machine diagnostics
  • Load and manage material such as prepreg spools into the Electroimpact AFP head, ensuring proper tension and tracking
  • Perform dry runs, calibrations, and material path verifications using the Electroimpact laser projection system (e.g., Virtek or LAP)
  • Monitor the AFP process for fiber bridging, tow drops, overlaps, and gaps, ensuring adherence to ply boundaries and fiber orientation
  • Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing technicians to implement work instructions, part programs, and configuration changes specific to Electroimpact systems
  • Conduct routine maintenance and troubleshooting of Electroimpact AFP equipment, including tow placement heads, compaction rollers, and vision systems
  • Perform post-process documentation including fiber placement records, machine logs, and defect tracking
  • Support process optimization by providing feedback on Electroimpact machine performance, downtime issues, and layup strategies
  • Behavior: The incumbent must work well under pressure, meeting and completing multiple deadlines. The incumbent shall, at all times, demonstrate cooperative behavior with colleagues and supervisors
  • Being at work on time and maintaining good attendance is a condition of employment and is an essential function of the job

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Due to our ITAR and EAR regulations, applicants must be a US Citizen or of Legal Permanent Resident Status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b (a) (3).
  • This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). Janicki will assist with gaining this access once employed. Special Access Program or other Government Access Requirements are mandatory for this position and requires candidate agreed to enter a Continuous Evaluation program.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
  • Minimum requirement is a high school diploma or GED.
  • Preferred but not required: 1+ years of experience operating AFP, CNC, robotic, or other automated equipment in aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, machining, or related technical fields.
    • Candidates with strong mechanical aptitude, technical coursework, or hands-on experience (school projects, trade programs, internships, military experience, maker/DIY background) are encouraged to apply.
  • Familiarity with Electroimpact AFP systems or similar automated composite layup machines is a plus, but training will be provided for motivated candidates.
  • Ability to read or willingness to learn to read engineering drawings, ply schedules, and manufacturing documentation.
  • Basic mechanical and troubleshooting skills, or demonstrated ability to learn mechanical systems, tools, and equipment.
  • Understanding of fiber orientation angles and composite layup quality standards preferred but not required
  • Comfortable learning structured processes, documenting work, and following quality and safety procedures.
  • Must have effective verbal and written communication skills in the English language

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  • Wage range for this role is between $20 - $45 an hour plus a discretionary bonus, 401(k) matching, vacation, and health benefits. Employees can also receive additional pay for off-shifts, off-site work, and access pay. The range provided is Janicki's estimate of the base compensation for this role. Actual amount offered will be based on job-related and non-discriminatory factors such as experience, location, education, training, skills, and abilities
  • By applying for this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified, you may be contacted for this and future openings

BENEFITS
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance with employer contribution
  • Disability insurance as well as Life/AD&D insurance
  • HSA (Health Savings Account) with employer contribution and FSA (Flexible Savings Account)
  • 401k with employer matching
  • Paid time off and paid holidays (including two floating holidays)
  • Education reimbursement program
  • Several shift options
  • Premium pay for off-shifts
  • Premium pay for security clearance if applicable

Not sure that you'll be the perfect fit for this role? You should still apply! We'll review your application for other opportunities. We are always on the lookout for talented people!
Janicki Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Janicki Industries does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, age, retaliation, veteran/military service status, or any other legally protected status. Janicki is proud to be a military friendly employer.
Applicants or employees wishing to view a copy of Janicki Industries' Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should notify the Human Resources Department at (360) 404-1997.
As a federal government contractor and a recipient of federal funding, Janicki is required to abide by federal drug testing requirements (including preemployment drug testing for cannabis). Additionally, because of Janicki's work on aerospace products and the high volume of safety sensitive positions, Janicki takes the safety of its employees very seriously and requires that employees pass a preemployment drug test prior to starting employment.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply