Automated Fiber Placement Engineer

Overview

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 aerospace, defense, and space industries. We are looking for an Automated Fiber Placement Engineer to join our growing team. This position is located on-site in Hamilton, Washington State.

The Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) Engineer is responsible for the programming, development, and optimization of automated composite layup processes using Electroimpact AFP systems. This role supports production and engineering by generating precise ply programs, improving part quality, reducing cycle time, and troubleshooting AFP-related issues in the manufacture of complex aerospace components. The AFP Engineer works closely with design engineering, operations, quality, and maintenance teams.

• Develop AFP ply programs for composite parts using Electroimpact programming tools and simulation software, ensuring conformance to design intent and manufacturing constraints
• Translate engineering models, ply books, and lamination schedules into executable AFP paths with accurate fiber orientation, coverage, and boundaries
• Support Electroimpact machine setup, calibration, and laser alignment for first article and repeatable production runs
• Analyze and optimize machine pathing to minimize defects (e.g., gaps, overlaps, tow steering errors), improve machine efficiency, and extend tool life
• Review and validate AFP programs with simulations and dry runs, working alongside operators during production start-ups
• Collaborate with design engineering to provide design for manufacturability (DFM) feedback for composite parts intended for AFP
• Investigate and resolve machine and process-related issues, working cross-functionally with maintenance and Electroimpact technical support as needed
• Participate in tooling design reviews to ensure compatibility with AFP head dimensions, access, and laser projection systems
• Implement and document process improvements, material usage reductions, and automation enhancements
• Develop and maintain standard work instructions, AFP best practices, and process documentation
• Support audits, root cause investigations, and corrective actions involving AFP-manufactured parts
• Maintains composure under pressure while successfully managing multiple deadlines
• Being at work on time and maintaining good attendance is a condition of employment and is an essential function of the job
• Must have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written in the English language
• Perform other duties as assigned

• Due to 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 agree to enter a Continuous Evaluation program.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related technical field required
• 2+ years of experience in composite manufacturing or AFP process engineering
• Proficiency with Electroimpact AFP equipment, software, and interfaces (e.g., AFP programming environment, ply simulation tools)
• Solid understanding of composite ply orientation, layup strategies, tool paths, and material behavior (e.g., thermosets and thermoplastics)
• Familiarity with CAD software (such as CATIA V5, Siemens NX, or Solid Works)
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced production environment
• Must have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written in the English language

• Salary range for this role is between $80,000 - $145,000
  , plus discretionary bonus, 401(k) matching, vacation, and health benefits. Employees can also receive additional pay for off-shifts. The range provided is Janicki’s estimate of the base compensation for this role. Actual amount…