Composite Supervisor
Saronic Technologies
People & HR, Operations
Austin, TX, USA
Posted on Dec 17, 2024
Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing defense autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations for the Department of Defense (DoD) through autonomous and intelligent platforms.
Job Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled Composite Supervisor to oversee the manufacturing and assembly of composite components for our Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs). As a key member of our growing engineering and production team, you will be responsible for supervising all composite fabrication processes, ensuring that materials meet stringent quality standards, and maintaining efficient production workflows. You will work closely with cross-functional teams including design, engineering, and production to ensure the successful integration of composite materials into our vessel systems.
Key Responsibilities:
- Supervise Composite Manufacturing: Lead and manage a team of composite fabricators and technicians to produce high-quality composite parts for ASVs.
- Material Selection & Handling: Work with engineering and materials teams to select and procure the appropriate composite materials (fiberglass, core, resins, gelcoats, etc.) for different vessel components.
- Production Planning & Scheduling: Develop and maintain production schedules, ensuring timely delivery of composite parts while managing resource constraints.
- Quality Control: Oversee the inspection, testing, and certification of composite parts. Ensure adherence to engineering specifications, industry standards (e.g., MIL-STD), and DoD requirements.
- Process Optimization: Identify opportunities to improve composite manufacturing processes, reduce waste, and improve efficiency while maintaining the highest quality standards.
- Training & Mentoring: Train, coach, mentor, and develop junior composite technicians and fabricators. Ensure that the team is properly equipped with the necessary skills, tools, and knowledge to perform at a high level.
- Collaboration with Engineering & R&D: Collaborate closely with the engineering team to understand design requirements and provide feedback on manufacturability of composite components. Work with the R&D team to experiment with new materials and techniques that improve performance and reduce costs.
- Safety & Compliance: Ensure all safety protocols and best practices are followed in the composite manufacturing area. Comply with all relevant environmental regulations and internal safety standards.
- Documentation & Reporting: Maintain detailed records of material usage, production progress, and quality control inspections. Report production status and any issues to management on a regular basis.
Qualifications:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field preferred. Relevant technical certifications in composite materials and manufacturing processes are a plus.
- Experience:
- 5+ years of hands-on experience in composite manufacturing, preferably in the aerospace, defense, or marine industries.
- 2+ years of experience in a supervisory or lead role in a composite fabrication environment.
- Technical Skills:
- Expertise in composite materials (e.g., fiberglass, carbon fiber, vinyl ester resins) and fabrication techniques (layup, infusion, RTM, vacuum bagging, etc.).
- Familiarity with automated composite manufacturing techniques (CNC routers, robotic arm systems) is a plus.
- Strong understanding of quality control procedures for composites (e.g., ultrasonic testing, visual inspections, manual inspections).
- Knowledge of DoD Standards: Understanding of military specifications and regulatory standards, including MIL-STD and MIL-PRF, is highly desirable.
- Leadership: Proven ability to lead and motivate a team, maintain productivity, and ensure safety and quality standards.
- Problem-Solving: Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, with the ability to address technical challenges in a fast-paced, startup environment.
- Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to effectively communicate with internal teams, vendors, and customers.
- Physical Requirements: Ability to lift and move composite materials (up to 50 lbs) and work in a hands-on production environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with autonomous systems or maritime vessels.
- Familiarity with advanced CAD/CAM software and 3D modeling for composite parts.
- Experience with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement processes.
- Prior experience working in a DoD or defense contracting environment.
Benefits:
- Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
- Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
- Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
- Saronic pays 99% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
- Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
- Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
- Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
- Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan
- Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success
- Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
- Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office
Saronic does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits.
