Composites Technician (De-tooling)

At Layup Parts, we're developing the technology that will build the future.

We're a manufacturing technology company replacing months of lead time with days, using proprietary software, automation, and advanced manufacturing systems built for speed. Our customers are inventing what's next, in aerospace, defense, robotics, and beyond. To keep up with them, manufacturing has to change. That's what we're building.

The Composites Technician (De-Tooling) is responsible for safely and efficiently removing cured composite parts from molds, tools, and fixtures while protecting both the finished component and tooling from damage. This position plays an important role in maintaining production flow, part quality, and tool availability within the composites manufacturing process.

What You'll Do

• Perform de-tooling of cured composite parts from molds, tools, mandrels, and fixtures using approved work instructions and techniques.
• Safely separate parts from tooling while minimizing the risk of damage to the part, mold, or associated tooling.
• Use appropriate hand tools, pneumatic tools, wedges, lifting equipment, and other approved de-tooling equipment.
• Identify appropriate release points and de-tooling sequences based on part and tool configuration.
• Handle composite components carefully to prevent scratches, cracks, delamination, edge damage, or other defects.
• Visually inspect parts and tooling during and after de-tooling and promptly identify potential defects or damage.
• Clean tooling following part removal and prepare tools for subsequent production operations as required.
• Assist with moving, lifting, and positioning molds, tools, and composite components using appropriate material-handling equipment.
• Maintain organized work areas and properly store de-tooling tools and equipment.
• Follow all safety requirements, including proper use of PPE and safe handling of sharp composite edges, tools, and equipment.
• Communicate part, tool, or process issues to Production, Quality, or supervision before proceeding when requirements are unclear.
• Support other composite manufacturing operations, including tool preparation, trimming, finishing, assembly, or general production support, as needed.

What We're Looking For

• Be awesome! Be the person you want to work with.
• Previous experience in composites manufacturing, aerospace manufacturing, automotive, fabrication, machining, or another hands-on manufacturing environment.
• Experience with composite molds, tooling, or de-tooling.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with hand and pneumatic tools.
• Ability to follow detailed written work instructions and established manufacturing processes.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to protecting product quality.
• Ability to recognize when excessive force or an abnormal condition could damage a part or tool and stop work appropriately.
• Ability to work independently after training while knowing when to escalate questions or concerns.
• Strong reliability, organization, and communication skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and work on the production floor for extended periods.
• Ability to frequently bend, reach, push, pull, and perform repetitive hand movements.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds independently and heavier components with assistance or lifting equipment.
• Ability to move metal parts that weigh 75-100 pounds into and out of ovens.
• Ability to safely use hand tools, pneumatic tools, and material-handling equipment.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, which may include safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and respiratory protection where applicable.

Equal Opportunity

Layup is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Notice to Staffing Agencies & Search Firms

Layup Parts does not accept unsolicited resumes or candidate profiles from staffing agencies, search firms, or third-party recruiters. Please do not forward resumes to our hiring managers, Talent Acquisition team, or any other Layup employee. Layup is not responsible for, and will not pay, any placement fees related to unsolicited resumes or candidates submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization from Layup's Talent Acquisition team. Any resume or candidate information submitted outside of this process will be considered the property of Layup Parts, free of charge.

Final compensation is based on your experience, skills, and what you bring to the table.

• Full Benefits Package: Medical, dental, and vision coverage, short- and long-term disability insurance, company-paid life insurance Equity Option Grants 401k plan Paid Time Off: 15 Days PTO in your first year, boosting to 20 days on your anniversary + 9 Federal Holidays