Composite Test Technician

Composite Test Technician - Build and Validate Next-Gen Defense Materials!Hawthorne, CA | On-siteOpportunity SummaryA rapidly growing, venture-backed defense technology company is developing a breakthrough manufacturing approach for advanced composite materials. Their process enables faster production, stronger performance, and greater consistency than traditional methods, unlocking new possibilities for mission-critical hardware.This role sits at the intersection of research, testing, and production. You will play a hands-on role in fabricating composite materials, executing mechanical testing, and supporting the scale-up of manufacturing systems. If you enjoy working with your hands, solving real-world engineering problems, and contributing to technology that directly impacts national security, this is a high-impact opportunity to step into.About UsWe are an early-stage defense startup focused on reinventing how fiber-reinforced composites are manufactured at scale. Backed by leading industry partners and actively delivering on programs with government and defense customers, our work supports critical supply chain needs and modern manufacturing capabilities in the United States. Our team is small, fast-moving, and deeply technical, with a strong emphasis on execution and ownership.Job DutiesPerform hands-on fabrication of composite materials to support both development and production effortsExecute mechanical testing across a variety of methods, including destructive and non-destructive evaluationsSet up, operate, and maintain testing equipment and shop toolsConduct coupon-level and component-level testing using standardized fixtures and proceduresRecord and document test results with a high level of accuracy and traceabilityTroubleshoot equipment, tooling, and test setups to maintain consistent operationSupport continuous improvement efforts across testing processes and manufacturing workflowsAssist with general shop operations, including material preparation and equipment upkeepQualifications3+ years of hands-on experience working with fiber-reinforced composite testingExperience performing mechanical testing using standardized methods and fixturesBackground working in a manufacturing or machine shop environmentAbility to operate fabrication and testing equipment independentlyStrong attention to detail with the ability to maintain accurate recordsComfortable working across mechanical systems with exposure to fluid and basic electrical setupsAbility to lift up to 40 lbs and work in a hands-on production environmentWillingness to work full-time on-sitePreferred ExperienceExperience operating CNC equipment such as routers or similar machineryFamiliarity with building and executing more advanced test setups at the component levelBackground in composite layup, material preparation, or part fabricationExperience working with metal components using standard shop toolsExposure to quality systems such as ISO 9001 or AS9100Why Join UsOpportunity to work on mission-critical technology with real-world impactDirect involvement in scaling advanced manufacturing capabilitiesFast-paced, hands-on environment with strong ownership and visibilityClose collaboration with a highly technical and driven teamEquity participation in a growing startupHighly competitive medical, dental, and vision benefitsCompensation Details$30.00 - $60.00 / hr#LI-AV

Created: 2026-04-19