Composite Operator - Level I - Bond

Composite Operator - Level I - Bond

Date: May 21, 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 – Bonding is an entry-level manufacturing role responsible for performing basic composite bonding 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 & Operations:

• Perform basic composite bonding tasks including surface preparation, adhesive application, layup support, and part assembly
• Follow detailed work instructions, engineering drawings, specifications, and process sheets
• Measure, mix, and apply adhesives, sealants, and bonding materials per defined procedures
• Load and unload bonded parts for curing or secondary processing as required
• Maintain proper handling of composite materials to prevent contamination or damage

Quality & Compliance:

• Perform visual inspections of bonded assemblies to ensure conformance to quality standards
• Identify and report defects, deviations, or non-conformances to supervision or quality personnel
• Accurately complete production documentation, routers, checklists, and electronic records
• Ensure compliance with AS9100, FAA, and internal GKN Aerospace quality requirements

Safety & Housekeeping:

• Adhere to all Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies and procedures
• Properly use personal protective equipment (PPE) and handling tools
• Maintain a clean, organized, and FOD-free work area
• Safely handle chemicals and materials in accordance with SDS and site procedures

Teamwork & Continuous Improvement:

• Work effectively as part of a production team
• Participate in training, cross-training, and continuous improvement activities
• Maintain regular attendance and punctuality
• Demonstrate willingness to learn and develop composite manufacturing skills

Job Qualifications

Required 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. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior manufacturing, aerospace, or composite experience preferred but not required
• Familiarity with hand tools, measuring devices, or basic manufacturing equipment
• Experience working in a regulated or quality-driven environment

Working Conditions:

• Manufacturing floor environment
• Exposure to adhesives, resins, solvents, and composite materials
• Use of PPE such as gloves, respirators, safety glasses, and protective clothing
• May require shift work, overtime, or weekend work based on production needs

Physical & Work Environment Requirements:

• Ability to stand, bend, lift, and handle materials for extended periods lifting up to 25–35 lbs.
• Work performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, chemicals, and machinery
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment requires repetitive tasks
• 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, age, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, 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.​
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