What Does a Composite Mechanic Do?
A composite mechanic builds, repairs, and maintains components made from advanced composite materials such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, and Kevlar. These materials are commonly used in aerospace, automotive, marine, and industrial applications due to their high strength-to-weight ratio. Composite mechanics work with precision and attention to detail to shape, bond, and cure materials that meet strict performance and safety standards.
Their day-to-day work involves reading blueprints, preparing molds, performing lay-ups, trimming and sanding cured parts, and using specialized equipment such as autoclaves or vacuum bag systems. Composite mechanics often work in highly regulated environments and are expected to follow safety, quality, and documentation procedures closely.
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Composite Mechanic Core Responsibilities
- Perform composite lay-ups using prepreg, wet lay-up, or resin infusion techniques
- Operate autoclaves, ovens, and vacuum bagging equipment to cure composite parts
- Trim, drill, sand, and finish parts using hand tools and power tools
- Inspect composite parts for defects and perform structural repairs when needed
- Read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and work instructions
- Prepare molds, apply release agents, and ensure cleanliness of work surfaces
- Maintain accurate documentation and follow quality control procedures
- Adhere to safety protocols related to materials, resins, adhesives, and tools
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in composite lay-up techniques (e.g., hand lay-up, vacuum bagging, autoclave curing)
- Ability to read technical drawings, process specs, and work instructions
- Experience using trimming, sanding, and bonding tools
- Familiarity with inspection tools and non-destructive testing basics
- Knowledge of curing cycles, temperature control, and material handling
Soft skills
- High attention to detail and manual dexterity
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting ability
- Ability to follow precise procedures and maintain quality standards
- Dependability and consistency in production environments
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or GED required
- Completion of a technical training program or apprenticeship in composites or aircraft structures preferred
Certifications
Not required, but FAA repairman certification or NADCAP/AS9100 training may be preferred in aerospace settings.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in aerospace, defense, or marine composite fabrication
- Familiarity with hot bond repair kits and resin systems
- Previous work in cleanrooms or controlled curing environments
- Background in aircraft maintenance, airframe repair, or tooling
National Average Salary
Composite mechanic salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Composite Mechanic is:
$55,369
Sample Job Description Templates for Composite Mechanics
Entry-Level Composite Mechanic
Position Overview
An entry-level composite mechanic assists with the fabrication, assembly, and repair of composite parts under the guidance of senior technicians. They work with carbon fiber, fiberglass, and resin-based materials to support production or prototyping tasks in manufacturing environments.
Responsibilities
- Assist with basic lay-up, sanding, trimming, and bonding tasks
- Follow detailed work instructions and safety procedures
- Prepare tools, materials, and molds for composite fabrication
- Maintain cleanliness of work areas and handle materials properly
- Monitor curing processes and help with vacuum bagging setups
- Inspect parts visually and report defects or inconsistencies
Requirements
Hard skills
- Familiarity with hand tools, sanding, and resin handling
- Ability to read basic work instructions or shop drawings
- Understanding of safety protocols for PPE and chemical use
Soft skills
- Willingness to learn and follow instructions
- Dependability in fast-paced production environments
- Good hand-eye coordination and attention to detail
Education
- High school diploma or GED required
- Completion of a technical or trade program preferred
Senior Composite Mechanic
Position Overview
A senior composite mechanic leads composite fabrication and repair efforts, ensuring components meet quality and structural specifications. They work independently on complex lay-ups, repair procedures, and mentor junior technicians on industry best practices.
Responsibilities
- Perform advanced composite lay-ups and structural repairs
- Interpret blueprints, process specs, and engineering drawings
- Lead vacuum bagging, oven or autoclave curing, and resin infusion setups
- Inspect composite parts for delamination, voids, or nonconformance
- Train and mentor entry-level mechanics on shop procedures
- Document work per quality assurance standards and provide feedback on improvements
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in multi-ply lay-up, trimming, drilling, and bonding
- Proficiency with autoclave operations and hot bonding techniques
- Knowledge of non-destructive inspection processes and rework documentation
Soft skills
- Team leadership and coaching ability
- Strong problem-solving and diagnostic skills
- Precision and accountability under production deadlines
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Technical training in composite structures or aerospace preferred
Aerospace Composite Mechanic
Position Overview
An aerospace composite mechanic specializes in building and repairing aircraft components made from composite materials. They follow FAA, AS9100, or NADCAP standards to ensure airworthiness and compliance in a regulated aerospace manufacturing or MRO environment.
Responsibilities
- Fabricate or repair aircraft structures using carbon fiber, fiberglass, or Kevlar
- Apply vacuum bagging, hot bond, and autoclave curing per OEM and FAA specs
- Trim, drill, and assemble parts using precision tools and templates
- Complete repair documentation, inspection checklists, and sign-offs
- Work in cleanroom environments or with Class A tooling
- Follow all aerospace safety, quality, and procedural standards
Requirements
Hard skills
- Experience with aviation-grade composites and core materials
- Understanding of FAA and AS9100 documentation procedures
- Familiarity with FOD prevention, torque specs, and airworthiness requirements
Soft skills
- Meticulous attention to quality and compliance
- Strong communication within a regulated production environment
- Ability to manage workload under tight turnaround times
Education
- High school diploma required
- FAA Repairman Certificate or A&P license preferred
- Composite technician certification is a plus