Lead Composite Technician – Weekend Shift

Applied Aerospace & Defense Job Description

Precision. Pride. Performance.

Built in the Gorge. Flown Around the World.

At Applied Aerospace and Defense, we combine cutting‑edge technology with craftsmanship and creativity — all set against the stunning backdrop of the Columbia River Gorge. From concept to production, our advanced composite components are built right here and used around the world in aerospace, defense, and beyond.

Leads and coordinates production activities of carbon composite manufacturing facility; leading a weekend crew. Acts as a working supervisor performing composite technician production functions alongside crew.

• Leads and supports a diverse work group to complete assigned work orders safely, efficiently, and on schedule
• Coordinates daily production floor activities and assists in maintaining workflow to meet production goals.
• Communicates scheduling needs, order priorities, due dates, and material concerns to supervisors and management.
• Supports and promotes continuous improvement initiatives, quality standards, and operational efficiencies.
• Serves as a communication link between day and night shift personnel to ensure smooth transitions and continuity of work.
• Takes ownership of assigned shift activities and helps ensure production requirements are met.
• Collaborates with management, engineering, quality, and production personnel to resolve issues and support timely customer delivery.
• Performs Composite Technician duties across multiple work centers and leads by example through hands‑on participation.
• Assists in coordinating production workloads, personnel assignments, outside machining requirements, and shipping priorities.
• Provides on‑the‑job training, mentoring, coaching, and technical guidance to team members in accordance with company policies and procedures.
• Assists with onboarding and training of new employees and provides feedback regarding employee performance and development.
• Encourages accountability, teamwork, continuous improvement, and adherence to company policies, procedures, and safety requirements.
• Facilitates shift huddles, production meetings, and team communications as directed.
• Maintains professionalism under pressure, effectively manages competing priorities, and fosters positive working relationships throughout the organization.
• Identifies production issues, recommends corrective actions, and escalates concerns when necessary to support operational success.

Other duties as assigned

• Work a weekend shift
• Achieve a minimum raw score of 34 on math literacy test
• Work per detailed instructions and quality standards
• Work independently as a self starter and self manager
• Multi‑task in a results‑oriented environment
• Provide leadership and require accountability of crew
• Clearly communicate in English both orally and in writing
• Proficient in computer operations
• Follow and require employees to adhere to safety regulations
• Stand/work on feet for entire shift

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Experience in a lean manufacturing environment preferred
• Experience may include a combination of technical school, college instruction and/or work experience.

• Direct report to Operations Manager
• Works directly with other employees in a team environment
• Work with engineering, management and production crew for problem solving and production improvements

• 3/12 Schedule – Four-day weekends every week
• Competitive Compensation
• Bonus Eligible
• Medical, Dental, Vision Coverage
• 401(k) Program
• Paid Time Off
• Career Growth in a High-Tech Aerospace Environment
• Work Where Others Vacation – Columbia River Gorge Lifestyle

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Employees may be required to perform other job‑related duties as assigned, consistent with business needs and applicable law.

Due to the nature of our work and applicable U.S. export control laws, this position requires…