Automated Fiber Placement Technician

Janicki Industries is an innovative, family-owned aerospace company located at the foot of the Cascades. We focus on engineering and manufacturing complex projects for companies in the aerospace, defense, and space industries.

We are looking for a Automated Fiber Placement Technician to join our growing team.

This position is located on-site in Hamilton, Washington State.

Position Description
The Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) Technician is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining AFP equipment—specifically Electroimpact AFP systems—to fabricate high-precision composite parts and structures for aerospace applications.

This role requires proficiency in machine control interfaces, composite layup processes, and quality assurance methods in a high-performance manufacturing environment.

Essential Job Functions

Operate Electroimpact AFP machines, including system setup, loading programs, and verifying proper alignment of materials and tooling

Use Electroimpact's proprietary interface and control software to manage ply sequences, tow paths, and machine diagnostics

Load and manage material such as prepreg spools into the Electroimpact AFP head, ensuring proper tension and tracking

Perform dry runs, calibrations, and material path verifications using the Electroimpact laser projection system (e.g., Virtek or LAP)

Monitor the AFP process for fiber bridging, tow drops, overlaps, and gaps, ensuring adherence to ply boundaries and fiber orientation

Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing technicians to implement work instructions, part programs, and configuration changes specific to Electroimpact systems

Conduct routine maintenance and troubleshooting of Electroimpact AFP equipment, including tow placement heads, compaction rollers, and vision systems

Perform post-process documentation including fiber placement records, machine logs, and defect tracking

Support process optimization by providing feedback on Electroimpact machine performance, downtime issues, and layup strategies

Behavior:
The incumbent must work well under pressure, meeting and completing multiple deadlines. The incumbent shall, at all times, demonstrate cooperative behavior with colleagues and supervisors

Being at work on time and maintaining good attendance is a condition of employment and an essential function of the job

Qualifications

Due to our ITAR and EAR regulations, applicants must be a US Citizen or of Legal Permanent Resident Status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b (a) (3).

This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). Janicki will assist with gaining this access once employed. Special Access Program or other Government Access Requirements are mandatory for this position and requires candidate agreed to enter a Continuous Evaluation program.

Education/Experience

Minimum requirement is a high school diploma or GED.

Preferred but not required: 1+ years of experience operating AFP, CNC, robotic, or other automated equipment in aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, machining, or related technical fields.

Candidates with strong mechanical aptitude, technical coursework, or hands‑on experience (school projects, trade programs, internships, military experience, maker/DIY background) are encouraged to apply.

Familiarity with Electroimpact AFP systems or similar automated composite layup machines is a plus, but training will be provided for motivated candidates.

Ability to read or willingness to learn to read engineering drawings, ply schedules, and manufacturing documentation.

Basic mechanical and troubleshooting skills, or demonstrated ability to learn mechanical systems, tools, and equipment.

Understanding of fiber orientation angles and composite layup quality standards…