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Composite Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PDS Tech Commercial

Composite Mechanic

Wichita, KS

$43 - $45/hr

Operating impregnating, perforating, cutting, roll-form, press, and curing machines used in the fabrication of composite materials and core details. * Utilizing testing equipment while following ...

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Stratolaunch

Composite Fabricator

Mojave, CA

The individual operating in this capacity will be responsible for the fabrication of composite structure, Assembly and installation of composite parts and components. As Stratolaunch expands our ...

Urbineer Inc

Composite Prototype Technician

Irvine, CA

$27 - $40/hr

Our company is founded and operated by engineers that continuously foster both technical and professional growth in a rewarding team environment. Introduction Urbineer is looking for a Composite ...

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Urbineer Inc

Composite Prototype Technician

Irvine, CA · On-site

$27 - $40/hr

Our company is founded and operated by engineers that continuously foster both technical and professional growth in a rewarding team environment. Introduction Urbineer is looking for a Composite ...

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Light Composites, Inc.

Composite Technician

Poway, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Kit Cut Operator -- Light Composites Location: On-site Department: Kit Cut Employment Type: Full-Time About Light Composites Light Composites is a precision composite manufacturer serving the defense ...

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Composite Operator information

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$14

$25

$37

How much do composite operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 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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Composite Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Composite Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Full Time, and 97% Part Time. 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 - Level I - Bond

GKN Aerospace Careers

Tallassee, AL • On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

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

The Composite Operator Level I - Bonding is an entry-level manufacturing role responsible for performing basic composite bonding operations in accordance with established work instructions, engineering requirements, and safety standards. This role supports the production of high-quality aerospace composite components while maintaining strict compliance with quality, safety, and regulatory requirements.

Job Responsibilities

Manufacturing & Operations:

  • Perform basic composite bonding tasks including surface preparation, adhesive application, layup support, and part assembly
  • Follow detailed work instructions, engineering drawings, specifications, and process sheets
  • Measure, mix, and apply adhesives, sealants, and bonding materials per defined procedures
  • Load and unload bonded parts for curing or secondary processing as required
  • Maintain proper handling of composite materials to prevent contamination or damage

Quality & Compliance:

  • Perform visual inspections of bonded assemblies to ensure conformance to quality standards
  • Identify and report defects, deviations, or non-conformances to supervision or quality personnel
  • Accurately complete production documentation, routers, checklists, and electronic records
  • Ensure compliance with AS9100, FAA, and internal GKN Aerospace quality requirements

 Safety & Housekeeping:

  • Adhere to all Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies and procedures
  • Properly use personal protective equipment (PPE) and handling tools
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and FOD-free work area
  • Safely handle chemicals and materials in accordance with SDS and site procedures

 Teamwork & Continuous Improvement:

  • Work effectively as part of a production team
  • Participate in training, cross-training, and continuous improvement activities
  • Maintain regular attendance and punctuality
  • Demonstrate willingness to learn and develop composite manufacturing skills
Job Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED required
  • 0-1 Years' experience in production, warehouse, or manufacturing industry.
  • Ability to read, understand, and follow written instructions
  • Proficent math skills (i.e. measurement, mixing ratios, decimals, fractions, etc...)
  • 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. 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior manufacturing, aerospace, or composite experience preferred but not required
  • Familiarity with hand tools, measuring devices, or basic manufacturing equipment
  • Experience working in a regulated or quality-driven environment

Working Conditions:

  • Manufacturing floor environment
  • Exposure to adhesives, resins, solvents, and composite materials
  • Use of PPE such as gloves, respirators, safety glasses, and protective clothing
  • May require shift work, overtime, or weekend work based on production needs

Physical & Work Environment Requirements:

  • Ability to stand, bend, lift, and handle materials for extended periods lifting up to 25-35 lbs.
  • Work performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, chemicals, and machinery
  • Ability to work in a manufacturing environment requires repetitive tasks
  • PPE required (gloves, safety glasses, respirators, protective clothing as applicable)

Equal Opportunity Statement

GKN Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, 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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