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Composite Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operator III-CNC Operator

Amsterdam, NY · On-site

$29.14 - $36.37/hr

Job Summary Composite Operator III * Implement the Production Fulfillment Process steps related to the fabrication of parts according to work order and customer requirements. Ensures machinery is set ...

Operator III-CNC Operator

Amsterdam, NY · On-site

$29.14 - $36.37/hr

Job Summary Composite Operator III * Implement the Production Fulfillment Process steps related to the fabrication of parts according to work order and customer requirements. Ensures machinery is set ...

Composite Design Engineer

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$85K - $112K/yr

Now fully operating under the Composite Factory name, we have united our teams, experience, and capabilities under one brand. Rooted in motorsports, we are fully vertically integrated, bringing ...

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Composite Operator information

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$37

How much do composite operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for composite operator in the United States is $25.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $33.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a composite operator?

A Composite Operator is a skilled technician responsible for operating and monitoring equipment used in the production of composite materials, such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, or other advanced materials. Their duties often include setting up machinery, mixing raw materials, ensuring quality control, and maintaining safety standards. Composite Operators play a key role in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing where lightweight and strong materials are essential. They must follow precise specifications and safety procedures to produce high-quality composite products. Attention to detail and mechanical aptitude are important skills for this role.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a composite operator in a manufacturing setting?

As a Composite Operator, your daily tasks often include preparing raw materials, operating machinery to produce composite parts, inspecting finished products for quality, and maintaining equipment. You'll work closely with engineers and quality control teams to ensure products meet specifications, and you may also be responsible for documenting production data. Teamwork and attention to safety protocols are essential, as the environment often involves handling chemicals and operating heavy machinery.

What is the difference between Composite Operator vs Pipefitter?

AspectComposite OperatorPipefitter
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training; sometimes certifications in composite materialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; apprenticeship or technical training; certifications in pipefitting and safety
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, construction sites, industrial facilities working with composite materialsConstruction sites, industrial plants, maintenance environments working with piping systems
Industry UsagePrimarily in manufacturing, aerospace, and industrial sectors involving composite materialsConstruction, oil & gas, and industrial sectors involving piping systems
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Composite Operator and a Pipefitter lies in their focus areas. Composite Operators specialize in handling and manufacturing composite materials in industrial settings, while Pipefitters focus on installing and maintaining piping systems. Both roles require technical skills and safety certifications, but their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Composite Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, materials handling, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with composite fabrication tools, curing ovens, autoclaves, and quality control systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These capabilities ensure precise production, adherence to safety standards, and efficient collaboration in manufacturing environments.
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What cities are hiring for Composite Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Composite Operator job openings:

What job categories do people searching Composite Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Composite Operator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Composite Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,145 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Composite Operator I - Experienced-US

Kennametal, Inc.

New Albany, IN

$16.50 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Kennametal rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

287th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

 About Kennametal

With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Job Title: Composite Operator I

Location: New Albany, IN

Shift: 1st, 7am – 3:30pm

Job Summary and Mission

Bonds a variety of dissimilar materials, assembles, parts, skins, components, equipment or structures into finished or semi-finished products, and inspecting components to ensure they meet established specifications and quality standards.

Key Job Responsibilities

Lay out articles, cut materials to size according to drawings and specifications, apply materials to various parts using bonding agents. Follow recipe for liquid bonding agents. Apply liquid bonding agents to various parts. Monitor and verify quality of finished or semi-finished product using assigned inspection tools and record inspection results according to process standards. Completes repairs on composite, metal or laminate bonded products using inspection and rework instructions. Place product into appropriate location. Separate scrap from good product and document accurately. Scan correct production information. Train new operators when required. Trouble shooting quality and process issues from moderate to complex

Key Job Accountabilities

Commitment to working safely and understanding all safety procedures. Deviations in routine are handled according to operating procedures and/or work instructions. Operator responsible for following SOPs to assure product is processed according to proper routings, specifications and that the quantity and style are correct. Work to meet daily departmental production goals. Must be reliable and dependable. Communicate safety, quality, product issues with supervisor, team members and across shifts.

 

Education and Experience

Must have High School diploma or GED

Work Environment

Working in environments with varying temperatures and exposure to noise may be required. Some environments may include controlled temperatures and dust collection systems. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required: Safety glasses with side-shields, safety shoes, gloves, and cut resistant gloves when necessary.

Physical Demands

Approximately eight (8) or twelve (12) hours with scheduled break periods. Standing, intermittent walking, reaching, sitting, bending and lifting product weighing no more than thirty-three (33) pounds. Use of hands and fingers for fine motor tasks, to operate machinery, and handle tools safely. Visual acuity is necessary for reading gauges, inspecting products, and ensuring quality standards. Physical stamina and the ability to maintain focus during repetitive tasks are essential.

Problem Solving

Run orders by due date. Follow work instructions and Inspection Standards. Assignments and instructions communicated orally and carried out by standing guidelines. Must inspect and modify tooling as required. Moderate to complex problems solved by operator using learned knowledge of product, production processes and in some cases, coordination with technical experts inside and outside of the plant. Recurring problems and major decisions receive supervisor attention

 Kennametal Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.


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