Lead, Production

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Autoclave Full Time Skilled-Level Sup Brea, CA, US

Location: Brea, CA
Schedule: 2nd Shift | Full-Time | On-Site
Pay Range:$29.00–$37.00 per hour
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Applied Composites (AC) is seeking an experienced
Autoclave Lead to coordinate production activities while performing advanced autoclave operations in support of aerospace composite manufacturing.

This hands‑on working Lead position requires advanced technical proficiency, the ability to guide and train technicians, and strong production coordination skills. The Autoclave Lead works under the direction of the Production Supervisor to support daily production priorities, maintain workflow, and ensure compliance with approved manufacturing processes, quality requirements, and safety procedures.

Candidates with experience operating industrial autoclaves, composite curing systems, or comparable pressure‑and‑temperature‑controlled manufacturing equipment are encouraged to apply. Aerospace composite manufacturing experience is strongly preferred.

Come and join the Applied Composites team. We are a leading provider of complex composite components, assemblies, engineering and tooling to the aerospace, defense, and space system markets. Our employees are treated with respect and given the support, knowledge, and resources they need to thrive. If you are looking for a company that values and develops its employees while offering engaging work, Applied Composites may be the place for you.

Coordinate daily production activities across autoclave, heat treatment, and detooling operations in accordance with priorities established by the Production Supervisor.

Communicate work assignments and production priorities to technicians at the Supervisor's direction, adjusting workflow as directed to meet operational needs.

Monitor production progress, workflow, and resource utilization; identify and communicate production delays, staffing constraints, and operational concerns.

Coordinate the efficient movement of tools, materials, and parts through assigned operations.

Provide hands‑on technical guidance, coaching, and on‑the‑job training to Autoclave Technicians.

Identify employee training and development needs and communicate recommendations to the Production Supervisor.

Monitor the accuracy and completion of production reporting, labor time entries, and job‑cost information.

Identify and help resolve production errors, equipment concerns, and process deviations within established procedures, escalating issues as appropriate.

Coordinate with Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, and Production to address operational issues and support production requirements.

Communicate employee performance concerns, attendance issues, safety concerns, and potential policy violations to the Production Supervisor.

Promote compliance with approved manufacturing procedures, quality standards, and safe work practices.

Support continuous improvement efforts to improve production efficiency, quality, safety, and workflow.

Perform advanced autoclave operations, including tool and mold preparation, loading and unloading, cure processing, vacuum bag leak checks, and detooling.

Operate autoclaves, ovens, and associated control systems in accordance with approved cure specifications, Bills of Materials, travelers, build manuals, and work instructions.

Establish and enter cure cycle programs based on approved Engineering and Quality requirements.

Monitor cure cycles, equipment…