Automated Fiber Placement Engineer

Janicki Industries is an innovative, family-owned aerospace company located at the foot of the Cascades. We focus on engineering and manufacturing complex projects for companies in the aerospace, defense, and space industries. We are looking for an Automated Fiber Placement Engineer to join our growing team.

This position is located on-site in Hamilton, WA.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) Engineer is responsible for the programming, development, and optimization of automated composite layup processes using Electroimpact AFP systems. This role supports production and engineering by generating precise ply programs, improving part quality, reducing cycle time, and troubleshooting AFP-related issues in the manufacture of complex aerospace components. The AFP Engineer works closely with design engineering, operations, quality, and maintenance teams.

The following essential job functions are performed as an Automated Fiber Placement Engineer:

• Develop AFP ply programs for composite parts using Electroimpact programming tools and simulation software, ensuring conformance to design intent and manufacturing constraints
• Translate engineering models, ply books, and lamination schedules into executable AFP paths with accurate fiber orientation, coverage, and boundaries
• Support Electroimpact machine setup, calibration, and laser alignment for first article and repeatable production runs
• Analyze and optimize machine pathing to minimize defects (e.g., gaps, overlaps, tow steering errors), improve machine efficiency, and extend tool life
• Review and validate AFP programs with simulations and dry runs, working alongside operators during production start-ups
• Collaborate with design engineering to provide design for manufacturability (DFM) feedback for composite parts intended for AFP
• Investigate and resolve machine and process-related issues, working cross-functionally with maintenance and Electroimpact technical support as needed
• Participate in tooling design reviews to ensure compatibility with AFP head dimensions, access, and laser projection systems
• Implement and document process improvements, material usage reductions, and automation enhancements
• Develop and maintain standard work instructions, AFP best practices, and process documentation
• Support audits, root cause investigations, and corrective actions involving AFP-manufactured parts
• Maintains composure under pressure while successfully managing multiple deadlines
• Being at work on time and maintaining good attendance is a condition of employment and is an essential function of the job
• Must have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written in the English language
• Perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

• Due to our ITAR and EAR regulations, applicants must be a US Citizen or of Legal Permanent Resident Status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b (a) (3).
• This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). Janicki will assist with gaining this access once employed. Special Access Program or other Government Access Requirements are mandatory for this position and requires candidate agreed to enter a Continuous Evaluation program.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related technical field required
• 2+ years of experience in composite manufacturing or AFP process engineering
• Proficiency with Electroimpact AFP equipment, software, and interfaces (e.g., AFP programming environment, ply simulation tools)
• Solid understanding of composite ply orientation, layup strategies, tool paths, and material behavior (e.g., thermosets and thermoplastics)
• Familiarity with CAD software (such as CATIA V5, Siemens NX, or SolidWorks)
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced production environment
• Must have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written in the English language

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Salary range for this role is between $83,000 - $145,000, plus discretionary bonus, 401(k) matching, vacation, and health benefits. Employees can also receive additional pay for off-shifts. The range provided is Janicki's estimate of the base compensation for this role. Actual amount offered will be based on job-related and non-discriminatory factors such as experience, location, education, training, skills, and abilities
• By applying for this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified, you may be contacted for this and future openings

BENEFITS

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance with employer contribution
• Disability insurance as well as Life/AD&D insurance
• HSA (Health Savings Account) with employer contribution and FSA (Flexible Savings Account)
• 401k with employer matching
• Paid time off and paid holidays (including two floating holidays)
• Education reimbursement program
• Several shift options
• Premium pay for off-shifts

Not sure that you'll be the perfect fit for this role? You should still apply! We'll review your application for other opportunities. We are always on the lookout for talented people!

Janicki Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Janicki Industries does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, age, retaliation, veteran/military service status, or any other legally protected status. Janicki is proud to be a military friendly employer.

Applicants or employees wishing to view a copy of Janicki Industries' Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should notify the Human Resources Department at (360) 404-1997.

As a federal government contractor and a recipient of federal funding, Janicki is required to abide by federal drug testing requirements (including preemployment drug testing for cannabis). Additionally, because of Janicki's work on aerospace products and the high volume of safety sensitive positions, Janicki takes the safety of its employees very seriously and requires that employees pass a preemployment drug test prior to starting employment.