The Plug Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Company Bio

Since 2004, Merritt Precision has specialized in large-format CNC machining solutions for various sophisticated composite parts. Experience combined with a focus on relationships has helped Merritt Precision bring our customers’ most ambitious ideas to reality and success in the marketplace. With locations in Merritt Island, FL, and Sweetwater, TN, Merritt Precision provides 3D design, scanning, milling, and tooling services to customers with diverse composite needs.

Job Overview

Merritt Precision is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Plug Detail Technician to join our composites tooling team. This role is essential in preparing high-accuracy master patterns (plugs) used to create production molds for the composites industry. The ideal candidate has strong surface-finishing skills, exceptional attention to detail, and a commitment to craftsmanship and safety.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in the fabrication and preparation of master plugs for composite tooling projects
• Perform precision sanding, fairing, buffing, and polishing of plug surfaces to achieve exact dimensional and cosmetic standards
• Apply and maintain wax and release systems on plugs as required
• Mix and measure resin systems accurately with correct catalyst ratios for plug construction and repair
• Use hand tools to shape, sand, and finish plug surfaces with smooth, uniform contours
• Follow technical drawings, templates, and work instructions to ensure dimensional accuracy
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace in compliance with safety standards
• Perform inspections to verify plug quality and conformance to specifications
• Troubleshoot surface defects or dimensional issues, recommending and performing corrective actions
• Support process improvements to reduce rework and improve finish quality
• Train and mentor less experienced team members in proper plug detailing techniques and finishing best practices

Qualifications:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in plug building or detailing for composite tooling
• At least 2 years of hands-on experience with surface preparation, sanding, or fairing of large composite structures
• Prior experience in fiberglass lamination or composite fabrication preferred
• Familiarity with hand tools and precision measurement techniques
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications
• Strong eye for surface quality and shape accuracy
• Able to work independently and meet production deadlines with minimal supervision

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work in a non-climate-controlled manufacturing environment
• Must be able to stand, bend, and reach for extended periods
• Visual acuity required to identify small surface imperfections and ensure fair, uniform shapes
• Frequent use of arms, hands, and shoulders for sanding, fairing, and polishing tasks
• Fine motor skills necessary for precision surface work
• Must be able to climb on, over, or into large plug structures safely
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators when needed
• Able to safely lift up to 50 lbs as required
• This is a safety-sensitive position and requires full compliance with our fit-for-duty standards

Merritt Precision is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Merritt Precision is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to qualified individuals with disabilities. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a position, unless doing so would create an undue hardship. Merritt Precision engages in an interactive process with applicants and employees to identify reasonable accommodations.