Lamination, Infusion Specialist

Lamination Infusion Specialist

Established in 1969, Cigarette Racing has innovative vision and legendary style. Cigarette boats are uniquely hand-crafted in the United States and known globally for power, comfort, and luxury. Our high-level execution and premium quality are second to none and we stay committed to building the finest powerboats and center consoles in the world.

We are seeking a Lamination Infusion Specialist who will be responsible for supporting daily lamination operations with a primary focus on supporting and optimizing the resin infusion process across boat hulls, decks, and composite components. This role provides hands-on technical support, ensuring infusion processes are executed consistently, efficiently, and in accordance with engineering specifications and quality standards.

This position plays a critical role in training team members, maintaining the integrity of the infusion process, controlling material usage, and ensuring compliance with OSHA safety standards and environmental regulations. The Lamination Infusion Specialist partners closely with leadership to drive process improvements, reduce defects, and maintain production timelines.

Infusion Process Support (Primary Focus)

Support and oversee all vacuum infusion processes, including setup, execution, monitoring, and troubleshooting.

Ensure proper preparation of molds, vacuum bagging systems, flow media, peel ply, and resin delivery systems.

Monitor vacuum integrity, resin flow, infusion timing, and curing cycles to ensure consistent and defect-free results.

Identify and resolve infusion issues such as dry spots, air leaks, uneven flow, or incomplete saturation.

Maintain standardized infusion procedures and ensure consistency across all builds.

Work closely with Engineering to validate infusion techniques, materials, and process improvements.

Track infusion performance metrics and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance quality.

Technical & Production Oversight

Support and perform advanced fiberglass lamination processes as needed.

Ensure proper preparation and handling of fiberglass, resin systems, catalysts, and core materials.

Oversee material placement, orientation, and layup in preparation for infusion.

Inspect in-process and completed work to ensure compliance with quality standards.

Detect and correct lamination and infusion defects to minimize rework.

Coordinate workflow with Lamination, Engineering, Tooling, Paint, and Assembly teams.

Training & Workforce Development

Train and mentor Laminators and Technicians specifically on infusion techniques, setup, and troubleshooting.

Develop and reinforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for infusion processes.

Evaluate team skill levels and provide hands-on coaching to improve performance.

Promote best practices in composite manufacturing and material handling.

Support onboarding and cross-training of employees within the lamination department.

Safety & OSHA Compliance

Enforce OSHA safety standards and company safety policies within lamination and infusion processes.

Ensure proper use of PPE including respirators, gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing.

Ensure safe handling, mixing, and application of resins, catalysts, and chemicals in accordance with Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

Monitor ventilation systems and ensure proper environmental controls during infusion processes.

Identify and report safety hazards, chemical exposure risks, or equipment concerns.

Support incident reporting and corrective action implementation.

Waste Management & Material Control

Monitor and control resin usage, infusion materials, and consumables to minimize waste.

Ensure proper collection, labeling, and disposal of resin waste, contaminated materials, and scrap composites.

Maintain organized storage of raw materials and chemicals to prevent contamination or spoilage.

Track material consumption and report inefficiencies or overuse.

Promote sustainable practices and cost-effective material usage.

Equipment & Process Maintenance

Ensure infusion equipment (vacuum pumps, hoses, gauges, resin lines) is maintained and functioning properly.

Inspect molds, tooling, and bagging materials for readiness prior to infusion.

Report and coordinate repair of equipment malfunctions.

Maintain cleanliness and organization of infusion work areas.

This list is not exhaustive, and responsibilities may be subject to adjustment based on the evolving needs of the business.

Employment Type: Full-Time (hourly/non-exempt)

Schedule: Monday through Friday, 6:00 am - 2:30 pm, with occasional overtime or weekends

Qualifications:

35+ years of experience in fiberglass lamination with hands-on infusion experience required.

Strong expertise in vacuum infusion processes, materials, and troubleshooting techniques.

Prior lead or supervisory experience preferred.

Strong understanding of composite materials, resin systems, and structural layup techniques.

Ability to read and interpret production drawings, lamination schedules, and infusion plans.

Knowledge of hazardous material handling and environmental compliance.

Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality craftsmanship.

Effective communication, training, and leadership skills.

Ability to work in a fast-paced, production-driven environment.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand, bend, kneel, and work in various positions for extended periods.

Ability to lift and carry materials up to 50 pounds.

Tolerance for repetitive tasks, including cutting, rolling, laminating, and sanding.

Strong hand-eye coordination for precise resin application and control.

Comfort working in tight spaces or at heights.

Required use of PPE when handling chemicals and composite materials.

This role is based in a boat manufacturing or repair facility. The work environment may involve exposure to chemicals and fumes, requiring the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Cigarette Holdings, LLC is an EEO Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, status as a parent, national origin, age, disability (physical or mental), family medical history, or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors.

A conditional offer of employment will be contingent upon the successful completion of a drug test and background check, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws.