1

Automated Fiber Placement Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AFP Manufacturing Engineer

TX · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Automated Fiber Placement experience. * Experience with interrogating machine efficiency and implementing process improvements to reduce time and waste. * Proficiency in CAD software and AFP ...

New

Showing results 21-40

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:

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.

Composite Application Engineer

Lean Synergy Solutions

Rockford, IL • On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Composites Application Engineer

Position Summary

The Composites Application Engineer is responsible for process development and product support across various applications of composite and additive manufacturing machine tools, including but not limited to Automated Fiber Placement (AFP), Automated Tape Laying (ATL), large-format additive manufacturing 3D printing, metal 3D printing, and automated inspection. This includes all activities required to research and develop optimized processes, support sales, train customers, qualify machines, and assist in composite software development. Reports to the Manager of Composite Applications Engineering, Engineering department.

Employment Type: Full-Time, Salaried

Key Responsibilities

  • Review and analyze customer part manufacturing requirements.
  • Develop and optimize complete manufacturing processes.
  • Develop and test alternative techniques and manufacturing processes.
  • Provide training to both internal and customer personnel.
  • Support a project from proposal to installation and production.
  • Produce technical reports for customer and internal use.
  • Visit customer/partner facilities to support introduction of systems into production and identify and resolve processing problems, potentially under pressure and on short notice.
  • Support composite software development initiatives and process integration activities.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering and manufacturing teams to improve product performance and operational efficiency.
  • Maintain regular and predictable attendance at the Rockford, IL facility.
  • Work overtime and/or on "off-shifts" as required by business needs.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, Aerospace Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or equivalent technical background.
  • CAD experience, preferably CATIA, SolidWorks, or ProE.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
  • Ambitious self-learner with efficient time-management skills.
  • Ability to travel in the USA and abroad.
  • Ability to instill customer confidence in the company's competency and reliability.
  • Excellent communication skills (written, verbal, and listening).
  • Must maintain professional appearance and behavior.
  • Desk work is estimated at 70% of the time, and implementing work on equipment is estimated at 30% of the time.
  • Must be able to lift 15 lbs. at times.

    Preferred Qualifications

  • Working knowledge of computer programming, preferably Python.
  • Working knowledge of NC programming and ability to interpret NC files.
  • Experience in large-scale additive and/or composites processes such as 3D printing, Automated Fiber Placement, and composite layup.
  • Experience programming and running CNC machine tools, including robotic platforms.
  • Working knowledge of machine vision.
  • Working knowledge of industrial robotics.
  • Experience supporting aerospace, industrial manufacturing, or high-performance production environments preferred.

Location: Rockford, IL

Travel / Deployment Requirements

  • Domestic and international travel required based on customer and project demands, potentially for extended periods.
  • Travel can be as much as 30%

Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary range: $90,000 - $130,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications.
  • Comprehensive benefits package available.

About Lean Synergy Solutions

Lean Synergy Solutions is a Veteran-owned and operated recruiting firm that specializes in aligning top-tier talent with high-impact roles across a variety of industries. Our team, consisting of military veterans and industry specialists, brings a mission-driven approach to workforce solutions. Focused on placing skilled professionals in key roles, we help organizations navigate transformation with precision. We are committed to supporting transitioning service members, veterans, military spouses, and civilian professionals by providing access to meaningful, long-term career opportunities in government, public, and private sector positions.