The Analytical Solutions Division (ASD) of Applied Research Associates (ARA), Inc., is seeking Senior Composite Technician who has an aptitude toward composites and mechanical systems to join the team located in Huntsville, AL. This position will receive the required on-the-job training to safely utilize tools and hardware using standard fabrication shop practices.  The Senior Composite Technician will fabricate/assemble hardware and mechanical prototypes from drawings, work instructions, schematics, rough sketches, and/or verbal instructions. Must have strong knowledge in reading technical manuals - including blueprints and schematics.  Must be physically capable of wearing all required personal protective equipment to include, but not limited to safety glasses, respirator, safety shoes, hearing protection and hand protection as required.

What you’ll do as a Senior Composite Technician:

Perform composite layups per defined processes Perform various bonding activities using structural adhesives (composite to composite, metal to composite) Work with team lead to create layup and assembly processes and procedures Learn how to operate and maintain new and existing equipment in a Research & Development or production capacity Work with composite team to perform R&D projects of various complexities using both traditional and non-traditional methods Assist in training less experienced composite technicians on processes and techniques of composite fabrication and assembly Operate and maintain composite curing oven Records test procedures and results, numerical and graphical data, and recommendations for changes in product or test method Ability to read technical manuals - including blueprints and schematics

Senior Composite Technician Requirements:

Minimum of 5+ years in composite materials Resin mixing and application experience Ability to perform composite layup, vacuum bagging and troubleshoot vacuum leaks without supervision Under direct supervision, capable of fabrication of complex prototype systems Extensive knowledge in field of composite materials and resin Ability to function as an integral part of a team Strong working knowledge utilizing hand tools, power tools and measurement tools Must have familiarity with mechanical systems and safe work practices Safely utilize tools and hardware using standard fabrication shop practices Familiarity with technical manuals - including blueprints, schematics and or sketches Requires constant pushing, pulling, standing, standing for long periods of time, reaching, grasping, bending, climbing, and stooping in addition, will be lifting up to 50 lbs.  Must be physically capable of wearing all required personal protective equipment to include, but not limited to safety glasses, respirator, safety shoes, hearing protection and hand protection as required Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a SECRET clearance from the US Department of Defense Be a U.S. Citizen

Preferred:

Active / Current SECRET Clearance from the US Department of Defense Vacuum thermoforming experience Resin infusion (VARTM) experience Composite mold making processes and techniques 

ARA COMPANY INFORMATION:

Applied Research Associates, Inc. is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, currently employs over 2300 professionals. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. The corporation also provides sophisticated technical products for environmental site characterization, pavement analysis, and robotics.

At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership spawns’ greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take more active roles as owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are eligible for contributions which not only add to the company’s success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit” sums up the ARA experience. For additional information and an opportunity to join this unique workplace, please visit our website at www.ara.com.

Please apply at www.careers.ara.com for the Senior Composite Technician position.