Composite Operator - Level I - Layup

Composite Operator - Level I - Layup

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

The Composite Operator Level I – Layup is an entry-level manufacturing role responsible for performing basic composite layup operations in accordance with established work instructions, engineering requirements, and safety standards. This role supports the production of high-quality aerospace composite components while maintaining strict compliance with quality, safety, and regulatory requirements.

Job Responsibilities

Manufacturing & Production Support:

• Perform composite manufacturing and assembly operations in accordance with work instructions, drawings, and specifications
• Measure, weigh, count, and verify products and materials using visual checks, scales, and precision measuring instruments
• Support production processes by staging materials, tools, and supplies as required.
• Identify and report discrepancies, damages, shortages, or nonconformances to appropriate personnel

Material Handling & Logistics:

• Move raw materials, work-in-process, and finished goods to and from storage, production areas, loading docks, and shipping locations using hand trucks, carts, conveyors, forklifts (if certified), or by hand
• Load, unload, lift, and guide materials safely, including attaching slings, hooks, or restraints when required
• Prevent load movement or damage by properly guiding and securing materials during handling.
• Packaging & Shipping
• Inspect containers, materials, and products to ensure compliance with packing and shipping specifications
• Pack, repack, seal, label, and prepare materials for shipment using approved packing materials, hand tools, and power tools
• Verify shipments for accuracy and compliance prior to release

Safety & Quality:

• Follow all safety procedures, quality standards, and housekeeping requirements.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area consistent with 5S and lean manufacturing principles.
• Comply with all company policies, regulatory requirements, and recognized industry practices.

Behavioral & Professional Skills:

• Dependable with consistent attendance and adherence to shift schedules
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced production environment
• Willingness to follow direction, accept feedback, and apply corrective actions
• Demonstrated motivation to learn new skills and progress within composite manufacturing
• Basic communication skills to effectively report issues and collaborate with team members and supervision

Job Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required
• 0-1 Years’ experience in production, warehouse, or manufacturing industry.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow written instructions
• Proficent math skills (i.e. measurement, mixing ratios, decimals, fractions, etc...)
• 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.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements:

• Ability to stand, bend, reach, and perform repetitive motions for extended periods
• Ability to lift and carry materials up to weight 25–35 lbs.
• Work performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, chemicals, and machinery
• PPE required (gloves, safety glasses, respirators, protective clothing as applicable)

Equal Opportunity Statement

GKN Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable 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.​
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