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Composite Assembly Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The position requires broad experience in aerospace composite assembly and a willingness to perform a wide range of fabrication tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Responsibilities

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Composite Assembly information

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$12

$19

$27

How much do composite assembly jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for composite assembly in the United States is $19.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced in a Composite Assembly role, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Composite Assembly often encounter challenges such as precise alignment of composite materials, maintaining high-quality standards under tight deadlines, and ensuring safety when handling specialized tools and resins. Addressing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, effective communication with team members, and adherence to rigorous safety protocols. Continuous training and collaboration with engineers and quality assurance teams also play a key role in overcoming obstacles and ensuring successful assembly processes.

What is the difference between Composite Assembly vs Mechanical Assembler?

AspectComposite AssemblyMechanical Assembler
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require specialized training in compositesHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing facilities, aerospace, automotive, or marine industriesManufacturing plants, assembly lines, and workshops
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace, marine, and high-performance industriesGeneral manufacturing, electronics, and machinery assembly

Composite Assemblers focus on constructing parts from composite materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass, often in aerospace or marine sectors. Mechanical Assemblers work on assembling mechanical components and systems across various manufacturing industries. While both roles involve assembly work, Composite Assemblers specialize in composite materials, requiring specific training, whereas Mechanical Assemblers handle mechanical parts with broader industry applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Composite Assembly Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Composite Assembly Technician, you need a solid understanding of composite materials, mechanical assembly processes, and blueprint reading, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with tools such as vacuum bagging systems, autoclaves, and precision measuring instruments is commonly required, and certifications like IPC or NADCAP may be advantageous. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and effective team communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure precise assembly, maintain product quality, and meet safety and production standards in manufacturing environments.

What is composite assembly?

Composite assembly is the process of joining together parts made from composite materials, such as carbon fiber or fiberglass, to create finished products or components. This involves techniques like bonding, fastening, and sometimes curing, to ensure strong and lightweight structures. Composite assemblies are commonly used in industries like aerospace, automotive, and marine, where high strength-to-weight ratios are essential. Workers in composite assembly must follow precise procedures to maintain material integrity and meet safety standards.

What jobs make 3000 a month without a degree?

A composite assembly worker can earn around $3,000 per month with experience and basic technical skills, often working in manufacturing environments. Other jobs that may reach this income level without a degree include commercial truck drivers, sales representatives, and certain skilled trades like HVAC technicians, which may require certifications but not necessarily a college degree.
More about Composite Assembly jobs
What cities are hiring for Composite Assembly jobs? Cities with the most Composite Assembly job openings:
What states have the most Composite Assembly jobs? States with the most job openings for Composite Assembly jobs include:
Infographic showing various Composite Assembly job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,506 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Composite Operator Level II - Assembly

GKN AEROSPACE

Tallassee, AL • On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


GKN Aerospace rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 59 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities. GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, we're inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We're proud to play a part in protecting the world's democracies. And we're committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the world's aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.35 bn.in 2023. There are no limits to where you can take your career. Job Summary Under general supervision, the Composite Assembly Operator - Level II independently performs a wide range of manufacturing activities involved in the fabrication, assembly, integration, and machine operations required to manufacture composite parts and assemblies. This role executes complex assembly tasks, supports prototype and development programs, and provides technical assistance and guidance to Level I operators while ensuring compliance with all quality, safety, and regulatory requirements. Job Responsibilities Manufacturing, Assembly & Integration:
  • Independently assemble parts, fittings, and subassemblies for aircraft structures using layout tools, hand tools, power tools, and fasteners such as bolts, screws, rivets, clamps, and chemical bonds
  • Assemble prototypes or integrated-technology demonstrators for new or emerging aircraft environmental technologies in compliance with detailed product specifications and engineering requirements
  • Attach brackets, hinges, clips, fittings, and hardware to secure or support components and subassemblies using mechanical fastening, bonding, or welding methods
  • Perform preparation of components including cleaning, oiling, coating, sealing, or surface treatment prior to assembly or installation
  • Join and integrate structural assemblies such as wings, tails, fuselage sections, and control surfaces in accordance with work orders and approved procedures
  • Lay out, measure, and mark reference points, cut lines, and installation locations using jigs, templates, fixtures, and precision measuring instruments
  • Position, align, and secure subassemblies in jigs or fixtures while verifying dimensional accuracy against blueprints, index points, and specifications
  • Verify dimensions, tolerances, alignment, and clearances of assemblies, cable runs, and fittings using measuring tools including calipers, micrometers, and gauges
  • Ensure proper fit, form, and function by cutting, trimming, filing, bending, smoothing, or reworking components as necessary
  • Fabricate parts, details, and tools required for assembly or installation using shop machinery and manufacturing equipment
  • Splice cables using clamps, fittings, or reweaving cable strands to restore strength and continuity
  • Perform tube, seal, and hose splicing using approved bonding materials and aerospace processes
Quality, Documentation & Troubleshooting:
  • Interpret and work from engineering drawings, specifications, schematics, and travelers independently
  • Accurately complete production records, inspection documentation, and electronic data entry
  • Identify, document, and communicate nonconformances, defects, or process deviations
  • Perform self-inspection of work and support Quality personnel as required
  • Assist with troubleshooting manufacturing issues and recommend corrective actions
Leadership, Training & Continuous Improvement:
  • Provide training, guidance, and mentoring to Level I Assembly Operators
  • Support cross training initiatives and process improvement activities
  • Participate in prototype builds, development programs, and continuous improvement efforts
  • Demonstrate leadership by modeling adherence to safety, quality, and operational standards
Safety, Environmental & Housekeeping:
  • Ensure compliance with all Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) requirements
  • Properly handle, store, and dispose of chemicals, materials, and waste
  • Capture and segregate waste materials such as aluminum swarf, cutting fluids, and solvents according to company protocols
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and FOD free work area
  • Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) consistently
Job Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 2 - 5 years of experience in aerospace or manufacturing assembly environments
  • Demonstrated experience performing composite fabrication, assembly, and integration tasks; FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) License preferred
  • Experience working from engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions
  • Must be a U.S. Person per ITAR regulations to comply with export compliance requirements, with ability to obtain a Department of Defense security clearance if needed.
Required Skills & Abilities:
  • Advanced mechanical aptitude with proficiency using hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment
  • Strong ability to interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical documentation
  • Knowledge of composite materials, bonding processes, cable systems, and structural assemblies
  • High attention to detail and strong quality mindset
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills
  • Ability to train and support less-experienced employees
  • Capable of working independently with minimal supervision
  • Strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills
Physical & Work Environment Requirements:
  • Ability to stand, bend, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods
  • Ability to lift and carry materials up to weight 35-50 lbs.
  • Manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise, chemicals, and solvents
  • PPE required including gloves, safety glasses, respirators, and protective clothing
Equal Opportunity Statement GKN Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We'll offer you fantastic challenges and amazing opportunities. This is your chance to be part of an organisation that has proven itself to be at the cutting edge of our industry; and is committed to pushing the boundaries even further. And with some of the best training on offer in the industry, who knows how far you can go? A Great Place to work needs a Great Way of Working Everyone is welcome to apply to GKN. We believe that we can only achieve our ambitions through a coming together of diverse minds who enjoy collaborating in an inspirational environment. Through our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging and by living our five powerful principles we've created a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute. It's a culture that won us 'The Best Workplace Culture Award'. By embracing and celebrating what makes us unique we encourage everyone to bring their full self to work. We're also committed to providing an accessible recruitment process, so if you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during our recruitment process please get in touch and let us know. We are the place where human dreams, plus human endeavour, shape the future of aerospace innovation and technology.

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