Composite Rapid Development Technician
Joby Aviation•Santa Cruz, CA
Company Overview
Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. At Joby, we've been working to make that dream a reality since 2009 and we're now in the final stages of certifying our aircraft with the FAA. With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, we're now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service.
Overview
Joby Aviation is seeking a highly organized, self-motivated, and detail-oriented Composite Development Technician who is passionate about composite fabrication and assembly from tool making through spraying the final coat of finish paint. Located in the Composite Rapid Development Department, this role directly enables rapid prototyping, testing, and future aircraft developments for Joby Aviation. The ideal candidate brings extensive hands-on experience in a fast-paced composite prototype environment, with the ability to take parts or assemblies from engineering drawings through tooling, lamination, trimming, fitting, bonded or fastened assembly, integration, paint prep, and final paint. Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills are essential to working both independently and collaboratively in an R&D environment.
Responsibilities
Take complex aerospace parts or assemblies seamlessly from engineering drawings to deliverable hardware
Build and detail tooling, executing precise composite layups that meet engineered drawing tolerances and specifications
Perform trimming, fitting, structural bonding, mechanical fastening, and composite repairs or modifications
Execute bodywork, priming, surface preparation, and final topcoat painting
Partner with multidisciplinary engineering teams to refine, iterate, and improve R&D components
Required
High School Diploma or equivalent
Minimum 5 years of experience in a high-paced composite prototyping or R&D aerospace environment
Hands-on expertise in prepreg, wet layup, VARTM, RTM, compression molding, sandwich lamination, and complex vacuum bagging
Strong hand tool, carpentry, and tool detailing/repair skills
Experience with structural bond preparation processes, paste adhesives, aerospace fastener types, and installation techniques
Proven proficiency in cosmetic bodywork, paint preparation, and spraying using RP and HVLP equipment
Technical ability to read, interpret, and execute against engineering drawings and ply books
Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills to resolve issues independently
Solid verbal and written communication skills for cross-functional collaboration
Adaptability to shifting priorities in a high-mix development shop, with flexibility to work extended hours or weekends when needed to meet critical deadlines
Desired
Associate or Bachelor’s degree in a technical or manufacturing discipline
Familiarity with GD&T and CAD
Hands-on experience operating ply cutters, autoclaves, presses, or curing ovens
Additional Information
Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $30-$46/hr.The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.
Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer