Composite Operator - Level II - V22
GKN Aerospace, Tallassee, AL, United States
Job Summary
Under general supervision, the Composite Operator Level II independently performs a range of composite manufacturing operations required to fabricate, assemble, and process composite parts and assemblies for the V 22 Bell program. The Level II operator is proficient in multiple composite processes, works from detailed engineering documentation, ensures compliance with Bell and aerospace quality standards, and provides technical support and guidance to Level I operators.
Job Responsibilities
Independently perform composite layup, wrap, bonding, trimming, drilling, and assembly operations for V 22 composite parts and subassemblies.
Execute ply placement, orientation, sequencing, and consolidation per engineering drawings, ply books, and work instructions.
Perform vacuum bagging, debulking, leak checks, and preparation of composite components for curing.
Join, assemble, and integrate composite structures and detail parts in accordance with program and process specifications.
Identify and correct common composite defects such as wrinkles, bridging, ply misalignment, or contamination.
Material Preparation & Process Control
Prepare composite materials including thawing, cutting, kitting, staging, and out‑time control.
Properly handle prepreg, dry fiber, resins, adhesives, sealants, and consumables to ensure material integrity.
Apply release agents, peel ply, breather, bleeder films, and tapes per approved processes.
Ensure material identification, labeling, and traceability in compliance with Bell V 22 program requirements.
Quality & Documentation
Work independently from engineering drawings, specifications, work instructions, and routers.
Perform self‑inspection of work to verify compliance with quality, dimensional, and visual standards.
Accurately complete production documentation, inspection records, and electronic systems.
Identify, document, and communicate non‑conformances, defects, or process deviations.
Support Quality and Engineering during inspections, investigations, and corrective actions.
Training, Mentorship & Continuous Improvement
Provide technical guidance and on‑the‑job training to Level I Composite Operators.
Support onboarding, cross‑training, and skill development initiatives.
Participate in continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, and process optimization activities.
Assist with prototype builds, rework, and development efforts as required.
Safety, Environmental & Housekeeping
Comply with all Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) requirements and Bell program safety standards.
Properly use personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators and protective clothing.
Maintain a clean, organized, and FOD‑free work area.
Properly segregate and dispose of composite waste, chemicals, and consumables per company and regulatory requirements.
Job Qualifications
High School Diploma or GED required.
2‑5 years of experience in composite manufacturing or aerospace assembly; experience working in a regulated aerospace or defense manufacturing environment preferred.
Demonstrated experience performing composite layup, wrap, bond, or trim operations with minimal supervision.
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.
Skills & Abilities
Proficient understanding of composite materials and manufacturing processes.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, ply books, and work instructions.
Strong attention to detail and quality ownership.
Good manual dexterity and hand‑eye coordination.
Ability to troubleshoot basic process and quality issues.
Effective communication skills and ability to mentor less experienced operators.
Ability to work independently while supporting team objectives.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
Ability to stand, bend, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive motions for extended periods.
Ability to lift and carry materials up to 35–50 lbs.
Manufacturing environment with exposure to composite materials, resins, solvents, and machinery.
PPE required including gloves, safety glasses, respirators, and protective clothing.
Confined Space & Limited Access Work Requirements
Ability to safely perform work in confined or restricted spaces including aircraft structures, subassemblies, tooling, and enclosed composite components.
Perform composite layup, bonding, trimming, inspection, or assembly tasks while working in limited access areas that may restrict movement, visibility, or positioning.
Ability to work in awkward positions for extended periods, including kneeling, crouching, bending, reaching, or working overhead.
Comply with all confined space awareness entry required training, safety procedures, and signage requirements as defined by site EHS and program standards.
Maintain situational awareness and follow communication protocols while working in enclosed or restricted environments.
Properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilation equipment, and monitoring devices when working in confined or limited access spaces.
Immediately report unsafe conditions, physical discomfort, or hazards encountered while working in confined spaces to supervision.
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, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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Under general supervision, the Composite Operator Level II independently performs a range of composite manufacturing operations required to fabricate, assemble, and process composite parts and assemblies for the V 22 Bell program. The Level II operator is proficient in multiple composite processes, works from detailed engineering documentation, ensures compliance with Bell and aerospace quality standards, and provides technical support and guidance to Level I operators.
Job Responsibilities
Independently perform composite layup, wrap, bonding, trimming, drilling, and assembly operations for V 22 composite parts and subassemblies.
Execute ply placement, orientation, sequencing, and consolidation per engineering drawings, ply books, and work instructions.
Perform vacuum bagging, debulking, leak checks, and preparation of composite components for curing.
Join, assemble, and integrate composite structures and detail parts in accordance with program and process specifications.
Identify and correct common composite defects such as wrinkles, bridging, ply misalignment, or contamination.
Material Preparation & Process Control
Prepare composite materials including thawing, cutting, kitting, staging, and out‑time control.
Properly handle prepreg, dry fiber, resins, adhesives, sealants, and consumables to ensure material integrity.
Apply release agents, peel ply, breather, bleeder films, and tapes per approved processes.
Ensure material identification, labeling, and traceability in compliance with Bell V 22 program requirements.
Quality & Documentation
Work independently from engineering drawings, specifications, work instructions, and routers.
Perform self‑inspection of work to verify compliance with quality, dimensional, and visual standards.
Accurately complete production documentation, inspection records, and electronic systems.
Identify, document, and communicate non‑conformances, defects, or process deviations.
Support Quality and Engineering during inspections, investigations, and corrective actions.
Training, Mentorship & Continuous Improvement
Provide technical guidance and on‑the‑job training to Level I Composite Operators.
Support onboarding, cross‑training, and skill development initiatives.
Participate in continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, and process optimization activities.
Assist with prototype builds, rework, and development efforts as required.
Safety, Environmental & Housekeeping
Comply with all Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) requirements and Bell program safety standards.
Properly use personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators and protective clothing.
Maintain a clean, organized, and FOD‑free work area.
Properly segregate and dispose of composite waste, chemicals, and consumables per company and regulatory requirements.
Job Qualifications
High School Diploma or GED required.
2‑5 years of experience in composite manufacturing or aerospace assembly; experience working in a regulated aerospace or defense manufacturing environment preferred.
Demonstrated experience performing composite layup, wrap, bond, or trim operations with minimal supervision.
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.
Skills & Abilities
Proficient understanding of composite materials and manufacturing processes.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, ply books, and work instructions.
Strong attention to detail and quality ownership.
Good manual dexterity and hand‑eye coordination.
Ability to troubleshoot basic process and quality issues.
Effective communication skills and ability to mentor less experienced operators.
Ability to work independently while supporting team objectives.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
Ability to stand, bend, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive motions for extended periods.
Ability to lift and carry materials up to 35–50 lbs.
Manufacturing environment with exposure to composite materials, resins, solvents, and machinery.
PPE required including gloves, safety glasses, respirators, and protective clothing.
Confined Space & Limited Access Work Requirements
Ability to safely perform work in confined or restricted spaces including aircraft structures, subassemblies, tooling, and enclosed composite components.
Perform composite layup, bonding, trimming, inspection, or assembly tasks while working in limited access areas that may restrict movement, visibility, or positioning.
Ability to work in awkward positions for extended periods, including kneeling, crouching, bending, reaching, or working overhead.
Comply with all confined space awareness entry required training, safety procedures, and signage requirements as defined by site EHS and program standards.
Maintain situational awareness and follow communication protocols while working in enclosed or restricted environments.
Properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilation equipment, and monitoring devices when working in confined or limited access spaces.
Immediately report unsafe conditions, physical discomfort, or hazards encountered while working in confined spaces to supervision.
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, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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