Position: Composite Shop Lead  

Company Overview 

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services. 

At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel  

the aerospace industry forward. 

**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA** 

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Job Summary:  

ESAero is seeking a composite shop lead with experience in composite fabrication to join our team in San Luis Obispo, CA. The composite shop lead will oversee the composite fabrication process and composite area consisting of scheduling of work orders, tasking and training of technicians, assisting in fabrication, maintaining consumables, and upholding the highest level of quality. 

Responsibilities:  

Team Leadership:  

• Lead and supervise the team of manufacturing technicians in the production of composite components.  

• Delegate tasks effectively, ensuring each team member understands their responsibilities and works cohesively toward production goals.  

Process Oversight:  

• Monitor the entire composite manufacturing process, from raw material preparation to finished product assembly.  

• Ensure compliance with quality standards, safety protocols, and production schedules.  

• Troubleshoot any issues that arise during production, addressing bottlenecks promptly.  

Collaboration with Engineers and Designers:  

• Work closely with engineers and designers to optimize manufacturing methods.  

• Provide feedback on design feasibility, material selection, and process improvements.  

Training and Mentorship:  

• Train new technicians on composite fabrication techniques, tooling, and best practices.  

• Mentor existing team members, helping them develop their skills and knowledge.  

Resource Allocation and Inventory Management:  

• Allocate resources (equipment, materials, personnel) efficiently to meet production targets.  

• Work with the planning team to maintain inventory levels, ensuring an uninterrupted supply chain.  

Safety and Compliance:  

• Uphold safety protocols and promote a safe workplace.  

• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and workplace safety guidelines.  

Required Qualifications and Skills:  

• 1-2 years of experience as a production supervisor  

• 4-5 years of relevant fabrication experience including: hands-on experience with composites, resins, adhesives, and coatings 

• Experience reading engineering drawings and composite layup schedules  

• High attention to detail 

• Strong communication skills 

• Ability to work in a team orientated setting 

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Powerpoint) experience 

• Willing to relocate to San Luis Obispo, CA  

• U.S. Citizen  

Desired Qualifications and Skills:  

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or management   

• 5+ years of composite fabrication experience  

• Experience with quality control 

• Experience with AS9100 

• Hands on tool experience such as drills, grinders, cutting tools, etc. 

• Experience with advanced Personal Protective Equipment 

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks: 

• Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families. 

• Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off. 

• Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families. 

• Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage. 

• Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses. 

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future. 

• Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year. 

• Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture. 

• Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play! 

ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.  
E-Verify participation required for employment.  
Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States.     
Must be able to pass background check 

Hiring Range: $69,000-$85,000 salary annually (DOE)