Composite Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Join our team and help us build the future of defense and space!

FMI has been a leading solutions provider of high-temperature materials and composites for more than 50 years, serving the Department of Defense and NASA.

Our materials are being used on ground-breaking space initiatives, important missile programs, airfoils in commercial and military jet engines, and as lightweight armor for U.S. military ground vehicles.

FMI Composites is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected factor under federal, state or local law.

FMI is seeking an experienced Composite Operator  to join our Rayon Carbon Fabric Team. We are seeking a Composite Operator to support the manufacturing of advanced rayon and carbon-based materials used in high-performance applications. This role is responsible for operating production equipment, monitoring product quality, maintaining production records, and contributing to a safe, efficient, and team-oriented manufacturing environment.

Job Responsibilities:

• Perform all duties safely in accordance with company safety programs, PPE requirements, and plant policies
• Read, interpret, and follow written and verbal instructions, including work orders, operating procedures, specifications, Safety Data Sheets, and safety guidelines
• Process rayon fabrics through skeining, flexing, pre-carbonization, continuous firing, acid dipping, washing, and grading operations
• Process carbon and graphite materials through low- and high-temperature carbonizing, re-rolling, and batch oven firing operations involving cloths, yarns, webs, and chopped fibers
• Start up, shut down, thread, monitor, and maintain proper feeding and take-up of production equipment
• Prepare production reports, quality records, and operational logs; collect samples and perform quality inspections including measurements and visual defect identification
• Perform minor equipment maintenance, report malfunctions, and participate in problem-solving and continuous improvement activities to support safety, quality, and productivity goals

What we need from you:

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s degree or chemistry coursework a plus
• 1+ year of lab, manufacturing, or related experience
• Knowledge or experience with composites/textiles, ASTM test methods, atomic absorption testing and or carbon content determination is a plus
• Basic experience with inspection tools (calipers, micrometers) and mechanical or chemical testing methods
• Ability to read, interpret, and follow work instructions, specifications, and safety procedures
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain accurate data in Excel/MS Office
• Basic math and problem-solving skills; familiarity with quality systems or ERP

Shift Schedule:

A Shift

• 4a to 4p Sunday to Tuesday (week 1) Sunday to Wednesday (week 2)

What you’ll get from us:

• 10 days PTO
• 10 paid holidays + Veterans Day (for eligible employees)
• Medical / Dental / Vision Benefits
• Paid Parental Leave
• 401(k) Company Match