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Composite Associate information

What is a Composite Associate?

A Composite Associate is a professional who assists in the manufacturing, assembly, and repair of composite materials, which are materials made from two or more constituent substances with different physical or chemical properties. These associates typically work in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and marine, helping to fabricate parts from materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass. Their responsibilities often include preparing materials, operating machinery, inspecting finished products, and ensuring quality standards are met. Composite Associates play a key role in creating lightweight and durable components for various high-performance applications.

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

To thrive as a Composite Associate, you need a solid understanding of composite materials, fabrication techniques, and quality control, often supported by a technical diploma or relevant work experience. Familiarity with tools such as autoclaves, vacuum bagging systems, and precision measuring instruments is commonly required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this position. These abilities are vital for ensuring the production of high-quality composite parts that meet safety and performance standards in industries like aerospace and automotive.

What are some common challenges faced by a Composite Associate, and how can they be addressed?

Composite Associates frequently encounter challenges such as maintaining precision during the layup and curing processes, adhering to strict safety protocols, and working with hazardous materials. These challenges can be addressed by following detailed work instructions, consistently using personal protective equipment, and participating in regular training sessions. Additionally, collaborating closely with engineers and quality control teams helps ensure product specifications are met and fosters a supportive team environment.

What is the difference between Composite Associate vs Laminator?

AspectComposite AssociateLaminator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often preferredHigh school diploma; training on laminating equipment
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or aerospace facilities, working with composite materialsManufacturing, printing, or aerospace settings, handling laminating machines
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in aerospace, automotive, and sports equipment manufacturingCommon in printing, signage, aerospace, and industrial production

The main difference between a Composite Associate and a Laminator lies in their roles. A Composite Associate typically works with composite materials in manufacturing, focusing on assembly and quality control, while a Laminator specializes in applying laminates to surfaces or components. Both roles require familiarity with manufacturing environments, but their specific tasks and materials differ.

What are popular job titles related to Composite Associate jobs in Kansas? For Composite Associate jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Composite Associate jobs in Kansas look for? The top searched job categories for Composite Associate jobs in Kansas are:
What cities in Kansas are hiring for Composite Associate jobs? Cities in Kansas with the most Composite Associate job openings:
Composite Associate jobs near you
Production Manager - Automated Assembly & Manufacturing

Production Manager - Automated Assembly & Manufacturing

Spirit AeroSystems

Wichita, KS • On-site

$71K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Spirit AeroSystems rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Overview
This role is at Spirit AeroSystems, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, supporting Spirit's Commercial Business Units ("Spirit Commercial"). Spirit Commercial designs and builds commercial aerostructures, including for Boeing Commercial Airplanes, one of Boeing's three business units and the premier manufacturer of commercial jetliners for decades. Spirit Commercial's core products include fuselages, pylons, nacelles and wing components, with a focus on innovative composite and aluminum manufacturing solutions.
Responsibilities
Key Accountabilities: As a Production Manager, you will lead highly automated machining and advanced manufacturing operations. This role requires direct experience overseeing machining-driven manufacturing processes and is ideal for a hands-on leader with expertise in CNC machining, automated production systems, composite automation, or other precision manufacturing operations.
In this role, you will:
  • Lead production teams supporting machining, assembly, and automated manufacturing operations while driving safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance
  • Oversee advanced manufacturing processes including CNC machining, automated fastening systems, trim and drill operations, composite automation, and Automated Fiber Placement (AFP)
  • Drive operational performance and continuous improvement initiatives within machine-driven production environments
  • Partner with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, Manufacturing Engineering, and Operations teams to resolve production issues and improve efficiency
  • Champion Lean manufacturing principles, workforce engagement, and process optimization
  • Support new program introductions, automation initiatives, and production ramp activities
  • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and employee development

Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 5 years in a leadership or management role
  • Direct leadership experience with one or more of the following:
    • CNC machining or advanced machining technologies
    • Automated fastening systems (Broetje preferred)
    • Trim & Drill operations
    • Composite automation
    • Automated Fiber Placement (AFP)
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Ability to work any shift or alternative schedule as needed and overtime as required

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Associate or Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Technical, or Business-related field
  • Aerospace, automotive, heavy manufacturing, or other highly automated manufacturing experience
  • Experience leading projects, process improvements, and production ramp activities
  • Experience with SAP and Microsoft Office Suite
  • Union environment experience preferred

Additional Information:
Relocation assistance is available.
We are conducting a national search and encourage candidates with strong machining and advanced manufacturing leadership backgrounds to apply.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary Pay Range: $71,150 - $109,100
Kansas Tax Credit: Join Spirit AeroSystems' Kansas team and you may be eligible for a $5,000 state of Kansas Aviation tax credit for up to five years. Click here for more information on the tax credit.
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