Finishing Operator

**Position Overview

**

We are seeking an entry-level Finishing Operator to join our production team in Poway, CA. Finishing is the final hands-on production step before quality control, setting the edge quality, surface finish, and cosmetic appearance of completed products. We provide paid training for motivated candidates looking to build a career in aerospace and defense composite manufacturing.¨NBSP;

**Key Responsibilities

**

• Sand, trim, and deburr composite components using work instructions to remove flash, smooth edges, and break sharp corners.

• Perform edge finishing on machined panels and structural assemblies using hand tools, belt sanders, and pneumatic tools.

• Clean, degrease, and prepare part surfaces for paint or final delivery.

• Fill minor surface voids and pinholes using approved filler materials following standard shop procedures.

• Apply masking tape and protective coverings to areas that must not be sanded or painted.

• Conduct visual self-checks for cosmetic defects (such as scratches, fiber breakout, or uneven edges) before passing parts to Quality Control.

**Required Qualifications

**

• 0–6+ months of experience in sanding, deburring, trade work, or general manufacturing (entry-level candidates welcome).

• Ability to follow basic work instructions and safety protocols.

• Comfort using hand tools and power sanding equipment (belt sanders, orbital sanders, pneumatic grinders).

• Attention to cosmetic detail and surface quality.

• Ability to wear a respirator and full required PPE in a shop environment.

• Physical ability to stand for full shifts and lift up to 40 lbs.

**Preferred Qualifications

**

• Prior experience finishing carbon fiber, fiberglass, or plastic composites.

• Background in automotive body work, marine finishing, woodworking, or aerospace surface prep.

• Exposure to AS9100 or ISO 9001 quality systems.

• Bilingual skills (English / Spanish).

You should be proficient in:

• Deburring Experience
• Automotive Manufacturing Systems
• Experience in a Manufacturing Environment