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Composites Technician

Combine different materials to form lighter, stronger alternatives to metal across many sectors from aerospace to rail and renewables

How this role makes a difference

Composites are manufactured using a combination of materials and can be formed into rigid structures that are lighter and stronger than metals. They are used by the aerospace, automotive, oil & gas, rail, marine, construction, and renewables industries for smaller components as well as structures such as panels and frames.

The composites manufacturing process involves cutting edge technologies and there is continuous research into new ways to solve product and construction challenges. You could be the technician who designs and manufactures composite parts for turbine blades, bridges, aeroplanes, or satellites in space.

Useful skills
Attention to detail
Useful skills
Critical thinking
Useful skills
Communicating complex ideas

The kind of work you’ll do

  • Selecting materials to produce composites
  • Designing and preparing mould tools
  • Reading and understanding technical drawings
  • Designing and manufacturing components
  • Operating machinery
  • Carrying out machine maintenance
  • Listening to customer requirements and supporting research projects

What you can bring to the role

£ 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 , 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Average salary per year *
£ 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 , 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Average salary per month *

Data powered by LMI for all
*according to ONS

Future career opportunities

You will have the opportunity to work in different industries, creating composite parts that solve a range of challenges.

Alternatively, you could work for a design studio that takes commissions from clients, supporting their internal research and development teams.

How to get into this role

There’s no perfect career path or ideal way into your dream job.

But if you’re interested in education and training options that could be relevant to this role, you might want to consider:  

Schools and colleges each have their own career guidance plan and can provide detailed information, advice, and guidance on options and next steps.

A little more about the role

Exciting features...

The growth in demand for composites is increasing the need for skilled technicians with knowledge of composite design, tooling, moulding, machining, testing, repairing, and material production. These specialised skills will give you the opportunity to be involved in important projects, some of which could be reported in the news.

Other job titles...

This role can also be known by some other job titles including:

Composites Designer
Composites Materials Technician
Composites Tool-Maker
Composites Laminators
Composites Inspector
Composites Repairer

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