AFP Operator - All Levels
$41,600–$83,200 year
On-siteMiddle River, Maryland, United States
Job Summary
Set up, calibrate, maintain, and operate the Rocket Lab Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) machine to manufacture large carbon fiber fuselage structures for the Neutron Rocket. Clean machine parts, load and unload composite tooling, and diagnose defects to perform rework and splice repairs during the lamination process. Collaborate with Engineering teams to drive continuous process improvements, document machine stoppages, and contribute to Non-Conformance Report resolution. Follow detailed Work Instructions and Standard Operating Procedures while ensuring equipment safety and efficiency. This role supports the Space Structures Complex in Middle River, where you will build parts using space-grade materials for NASA missions and mega constellations.
Required Qualifications
- High School Diploma or GED
- Basic knowledge of machining and manufacturing processes
- Demonstrated ability to interpret Drawings and GD&T
- Basic math skills (including decimals, fractions, and conversions)
- Familiarity with measurement tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges)
- 2+ years of experience in machining or composites manufacturing
- 5+ years of experience in composites production and manufacturing, including expertise in filament winding, Automated Fiber Placement (AFP), and related processes
- 8+ years of experience in composites production and manufacturing, including expertise in filament winding, Automated Fiber Placement (AFP), and related processes
- Stand and walk extended periods ( 8+ hours) on production floor
- Perform repetitive motions including grasping, bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, and pulling
- Operate equipment and controls requiring manual dexterity, and hand-eye coordination
- Lift, carry, push, and pull materials up to 25 lbs.
- Work in a production environment with noise, moving machinery, and varying environmental conditions
- Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require
- U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable
Desired Qualifications
- Associate's degree in a technical field
- Skilled in reading and interpreting technical drawings and production documentation
- Hands-on experience in setting up and operating filament winding or AFP machines
- Proficient in operating CNC or robotic equipment
- Background in the aerospace industry
- Familiarity with industrial support equipment, including scissor lifts and boom lifts
- Certified in crane and forklift operation
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