Lead Composite Assembly Technician

About Us

Advanced Cooling Technologies, Inc. (ACT) is a leading provider of thermal management solutions for aerospace, defense, data centers, energy, and industrial applications. For more than 20 years, ACT has engineered and manufactured innovative technologies that solve complex thermal challenges in demanding environments. Our team is driven by continuous innovation, teamwork, and collaboration, delivering reliable solutions that support critical missions and next-generation technologies worldwide.

Job Summary

The Lead Composite Assembly Technician is responsible for assembling, bonding, and finishing composite parts and subassemblies in accordance with engineering drawings, work instructions, and quality standards. In addition to hands-on post-cure operations—including bonding, hardware installation, and final assembly—this role provides daily leadership to assigned technicians to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production while supporting workflow coordination, training, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Technical

• Assemble, bond, and finish composite parts and subassemblies
• Perform secondary bonding, hardware installation, drilling, trimming, and sanding
• Prepare bonding surfaces and mix/apply structural adhesives per specifications
• Align, fit, and inspect parts to meet dimensional and tolerance requirements
• Follow assembly drawings, travelers, and work instructions
• Complete required manufacturing and quality documentation
• Support rework, repair, and continuous improvement activities
• Adhere to safety, environmental, and quality system requirements

Leadership

• Provide daily direction and task assignments to composite assembly personnel
• Serve as the primary technical resource for troubleshooting bonding and assembly issues
• Train and mentor technicians on proper techniques, safety practices, and quality standards
• Monitor workflow to ensure schedule adherence and efficiency
• Coordinate with production supervisors, engineering, and quality to resolve issues
• Promote a safe, organized, and compliant work environment
• Provide input on performance feedback and serve as acting supervisor when required

• Ability to read and interpret engineering and assembly drawings
• Familiarity with hand tools, measuring equipment, and bonding tools
• Understanding of adhesive bonding and surface preparation techniques preferred
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
• Ability to work safely with chemicals and adhesives
• Effective communication and leadership skills
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities
   

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Prior experience in composite assembly, aerospace manufacturing, or mechanical assembly preferred
• On-the-job training may be provided for entry-level candidates

ACT offers competitive pay, excellent benefits (medical, dental, vision, paid time off, holidays, company-paid life & disability insurance, 401(k) match, and profit-sharing), and a supportive team environment.

ACT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

ACT participates in E-Verify.

California Applicants: ACT collects personal information for hiring purposes. California residents may have rights under the CCPA/CPRA. Contact HR at barbara.rockwell@1-act.com.