Aircraft Composite Autoclave Technician I-III

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet-powered subscale targets has established us as a go-to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price.

At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

Manufactures products using either wet lamination or pre-preg lamination. Individual will be able to function in all phases of oven/autoclave operations, providing lamination operators with necessary tooling and supporting equipment and materials.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The duties and responsibilities listed below apply to all levels. Each level of has additional duties and responsibilities listed.

Aircraft Composite Autoclave Technician ALL:

• Performs a variety of tasks, which require knowledge of lamination techniques, materials, tools and equipment.
• Interprets and follows manufacturing orders.
• Basic working knowledge of computer data entry function preferred.
• Follow proper handling techniques and all safety guidelines.
• Capable of driving forklifts and crane operation.
• Coordinates with department supervisor and team lead on all the work going in and out of ovens/autoclaves , assist with moving tools into the staging area.
• Prepare oven/autoclave for loading/unloading by following applicable procedures.
• Responsible for loading/unloading ovens/autoclaves, connecting vacuum lines, thermocouples and verifying leak test on vacuum bagged parts.
• Perform necessary functions in case of bag leak, or thermal failure.
• An understanding of all controls and recording equipment for autoclaves and ovens.
• Use hand/power tools in a safe and efficient manner for demolding process.
• Inspection of in-process and finished product using measuring tools and other tests procedures as required.
• Familiarity with all safety procedures identified with operating a pressure vessel, overhead crane, and area operations.
• Must be able to prep tools using cleaning and release agents.
• Must be able to demold, drill and deflash parts as required per Manufacturing Order.
• Using pre-preg lamination techniques, cuts cloth and lays up products of varying tolerances.
• Prepares products for vacuum bagging (pre-preg).
• Handles, applies, stores and disposes of composite materials, adhesives, sealants, resins and solvents using proper handling techniques and following all safety guidelines.
• Inspects finished products for conformance to specifications.
• Completes all required documentation related to assigned job(s).
• Follows FOD (foreign object debris prevention) practices.
• Complies with established safety directives.
• Follow proper cure procedures for parts and tools as required.
• Maintains a clean work area to ensure strict adherence to 5S Standards.
• Complies with established QMS procedures.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Aircraft Composite Autoclave Technician I:

Specific duties and responsibilities for this level include

• Working under close supervision
• Math
• Documentation
• Materials Knowledge
• Tooling/Molds
• Equipment
• Basic understanding of all controls and recording equipment for autoclaves and ovens and able to operate with assistance
• Process
• Quality
• Safety

Aircraft Composite Autoclave Technician II:

Specific duties and responsibilities for this level include an intermediate level of

• Working under limited supervision
• May work from verbal directives
• Math
• Documentation
• Materials Knowledge
• Tooling/Molds
• Equipment
• Understanding of all controls and recording equipment for autoclaves and ovens and able to operate independently
• Process
• Quality
• Safety

Aircraft Composite Autoclave Technician III:

Specific duties and responsibilities for this level include an advanced level of

• Working under minimal supervision
• Responsible for training entry level employees
• Math
• Documentation
• Materials Knowledge
• Tooling/Molds
• Equipment
• Full understanding of all controls and recording equipment for autoclaves and ovens, able to write and modify recipes and train others
• Process
• Quality
• Safety

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

None.

#LI-Onsite

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Required:

• Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information as required by government standards.
• Ability to interact effectively with peers and supervisors.
• Ability to interact appropriately with the public when necessary.
• Ability to adhere to workplace rules.
• Ability to effectively communicate professionally in writing or verbally with all levels of personnel.
• Ability to support a iright-the-first-time approach that focuses on zero defects.

Preferred:

N/A

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Each successive level of Aircraft Composite Autoclave Technician builds on the identified typical qualifications listed for the previous level(s).

Required:

Aircraft Composite Autoclave Technician I:

• HS Diploma or equivalent.
• Must be able to demonstrate accurate basic math skills.
• Must be able to demonstrate the accurate use of a tape measure.
• Minimum of six months experience required, preferably in manufacturing environment.

Typical qualifications for this level include:

• Math
• Documentation
• Materials Knowledge
• Tooling/Molds
• Equipment
• Process
• Quality
• Safety
• May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Aircraft Composite Autoclave Technician II:

• Minimum of 1 year experience required, preferably in a manufacturing environment

Typical qualifications for this level include an intermediate level of:

• Basic computer skills with the ability to navigate around files
• Math
• Documentation
• Materials Knowledge
• Tooling/Molds
• Equipment
• Process
• Quality
• Safety
• May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Aircraft Composite Autoclave Technician III:

• Minimum of 3 year experience required, preferably in a manufacturing environment

Typical qualifications for this level include an advanced level of:

• Math
• Documentation
• Materials Knowledge
• Tooling/Molds
• Equipment
• Process
• Quality
• Safety
• May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Preferred:

Aircraft Composite Autoclave Technician I:

• One year hands-on experience in manufacturing production.
• Hands on experience, training, or education in laying up aircraft parts onto hard tooling using pre-preg carbon fiber.
• Hands on experience, training, or education in carbon composite bonding techniques.
• Hands on experience, training, or education in using epoxies and adhesive type materials to build parts and assemblies.

Aircraft Composite Autoclave Technician II:

• 2 years hands-on experience in composite manufacturing.

Aircraft Composite Autoclave Technician III:

• 4 years hands-on experience in composite manufacturing.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Physical Requirements:

• Standing, walking, lifting, bending, reaching, grasping, stooping, kneeling, climbing
• Must be physically capable of pushing and pulling carts in and out of the ovens and autoclave and occasionally lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 50 lbs.
• May occasionally manipulate materials
• Employee may generate, handle, manage, or work around hazardous materials and hazardous wastes
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

Working Conditions:

• May work in controlled and non-temperature controlled environments.
• Occasional exposure to noise, hazardous materials and chemicals.
• May work extended hours or weekends.
• Works with a variety of hand tools, power tools and other related equipment.
• Works in confined spaces.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

None.