Composite Operator - Level I - Wrap

Composite Operator - Level I - Wrap Apply now »

Date:

Apr 20, 2026

Location:

Tallassee, AL, US Company:

GKN Aerospace Careers Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities. GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, we're inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We're proud to play a part in protecting the world's democracies. And we're committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the world's aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.35 bn.in 2023. There are no limits to where you can take your career. Job Summary Under direct supervision, the Composite Operator Level I (Wrap) performs standard, routine, and generally repetitive manufacturing activities associated with wrapping and layup of composite materials. This position supports the fabrication of aerospace composite components by preparing materials, applying composite plies or wraps to molds or tools, and ensuring work is completed in accordance with established work instructions, quality standards, and safety requirements.

Job Responsibilities Composite Wrap & Layup Operations:

Perform basic wrap and layup operations by applying composite materials (prepreg, dry fiber, or tape) to molds, mandrels, or tooling according to work instructions Assist higher level composite operators with wrapping, ply placement, and consolidation of composite materials Layup composite plies in the correct orientation, sequence, and position as defined by engineering instructions Assist with debulking, vacuum bagging, and preparation of wrapped parts for curing Use approved hand tools and equipment such as rollers, scissors, templates, and cutting tools

Material Handling & Preparation:

Prepare composite materials by thawing, cutting, and staging plies according to process requirements Handle composite materials properly to prevent contamination, damage, or out-time violations Apply release materials, films, tapes, and consumables as required for wrap processes Maintain proper material identification and traceability throughout the process Quality & Documentation Follow detailed work instructions, process sheets, drawings, and visual aids Perform basic visual inspections to ensure ply alignment, orientation, and completeness Identify and report defects such as wrinkles, bridging, foreign object debris (FOD), or misaligned plies Accurately complete production documentation, routers, and electronic records

Safety, Environmental & Housekeeping:

Comply with all Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies and procedures Properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE) Maintain a clean, organized, and FOD free work area Segregate composite waste, consumables, and materials for appropriate disposal or recycling in accordance with company procedures

Teamwork & Development:

Work effectively as part of a manufacturing team Follow directions from supervisors and experienced operators Participate in on-the-job training and continuous improvement initiatives Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, and willingness to learn composite manufacturing processes Job Qualifications High School Diploma or GED required 0-1 Years' experience in production, warehouse, or manufacturing industry. Experience in composite manufacturing, wrapping, or layup environments. 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:

Ability to follow written and verbal work instructions Good manual dexterity and hand eye coordination Attention to detail and quality awareness Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining accuracy Basic math skills for measurements and material handling Ability to work in a team-oriented production environment

Physical & Work Environment Requirements:

Ability to stand, bend, reach, and work with hands for extended periods Ability to lift and carry materials up to weight 25-35 lbs. Manufacturing environment with exposure to composite materials, chemicals, and solvents PPE required, including gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing Advancement Opportunities Opportunity to progress to Composite Operator Level II (Wrap) based on skill development, performance, and business needs 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. We'll offer you fantastic challenges and amazing opportunities. This is your chance to be part of an organisation that has proven itself to be at the cutting edge of our industry; and is committed to pushing the boundaries even further. And with some of the best training on offer in the industry, who knows how far you can go? A Great Place to work needs a Great Way of Working Everyone is welcome to apply to GKN. We believe that we can only achieve our ambitions through a coming together of diverse minds who enjoy collaborating in an inspirational environment. Through our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging and by living our five powerful principles we've created a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute. It's a culture that won us 'The Best Workplace Culture Award'. By embracing and celebrating what makes us unique we encourage everyone to bring their full self to work. We're also committed to providing an accessible recruitment process, so if you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during our recruitment process please get in touch and let us know. We are the place where human dreams, plus human endeavour, shape the future of aerospace innovation and technology. ​ ​ Apply now »