Engineering Technician

Job Title: Composite Technician - Unmanned Aerial Systems (Entry Level)

Job Description

This entry-level Composite Technician role supports the fabrication and structural integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and associated tooling within a dynamic unmanned aerial systems and composites environment. The position offers the opportunity to work in a fast-paced, hands-on maker culture focused on delivering high-quality products and services in support of defense-related applications. You will work with advanced composite materials to build flight-ready structures to precise engineering specifications while collaborating closely with engineering and production teams.

Responsibilities

• Perform wet layup of composite materials to fabricate UAV airframes and related structures according to engineering specifications and work instructions.
• Trim and finish composite parts to required dimensions and quality standards using appropriate tools and equipment.
• Carry out composite and structural integration of UAV airframes, ensuring proper fit, alignment, and bonding of components.
• Work with resins, fabrics, and mold tooling to produce flight-ready composite structures that meet structural and performance requirements.
• Interpret and follow blueprints, drawings, and fabrication documentation to complete tasks accurately and efficiently.
• Follow detailed instructions from leadership and engineering, asking questions and seeking clarification when needed to ensure correct execution of work.
• Communicate effectively with leadership and peers to coordinate tasks, report issues, and support continuous workflow in a fast-paced environment.
• Adhere to all safety procedures, including the proper use of respirators and other personal protective equipment, while working with composite materials and chemicals.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including tools, materials, and equipment, to support safe and efficient operations.
• Support both first and second shift operations as needed to meet production and program requirements.

Essential Skills

• Ability to stand for long periods while working in a fast-paced production environment.
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds frequently and work on your feet for a full 8-hour shift.
• Ability to wear a respirator and other safety equipment throughout the workday in compliance with safety requirements.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and standard operating procedures accurately and consistently.
• Strong communication skills to work effectively with leadership and peers on the production floor.
• Basic understanding of fabrication processes and comfort working with tools and equipment in a manufacturing setting.
• Willingness and ability to work onsite with no remote option.
• Flexibility to work both first and second shifts if needed (typically 7:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.).

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience with composite or fiberglass materials, including wet layup or related processes, is a strong plus.
• Experience working with composite materials such as resins, fabrics, and epoxy systems is beneficial.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints or engineering drawings is highly desirable.
• Experience in manufacturing or production environments is an advantage.
• Interest in UAVs/UAS as a hobby or personal passion is considered a plus.
• A two-year technical degree is desired but not required for consideration.
• Comfort participating in an onsite interview during standard daytime hours (typically between 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. CST).

Work Environment

This role is fully onsite in a manufacturing facility located in Madison, AL, with no remote work option. The environment is fast-paced and hands-on, centered around a maker culture that values innovation, craftsmanship, and teamwork. You will work primarily on the production floor with composite materials, including resins, fabrics, epoxies, and mold tooling, and will use standard fabrication tools and equipment to build UAV airframes and components. The position typically operates on 8-hour shifts, with first shift generally running from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and second shift from 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., and you may be asked to support either shift based on production needs. The facility requires the use of appropriate personal protective equipment, including respirators and other safety gear, due to the nature of composite materials and processes. The culture emphasizes safety, quality, and collaboration, offering an engaging environment for individuals who enjoy building, problem-solving, and contributing directly to flight-ready aerospace products.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Madison, AL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $35.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Madison,AL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 14, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.