Chop Gun Operator & Finisher - R&D

Overview: Position Type Full Time Job Shift Day Education Level None Travel Percentage None Category Manufacturing

Description: The Chop Gun & Finisher is responsible for performing fiberglass lamination, chop gun application, grinding, trimming, sanding, finishing, and related composite manufacturing processes within the PD&E department. This position supports the development and production of new boat models, prototypes, molds, plugs, tooling, and production improvements. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience working with fiberglass and composite materials, understands proper resin and fiberglass application techniques, and takes pride in producing high-quality work. The position requires attention to detail, the ability to follow specifications and work instructions, and a strong commitment to safety, quality, and productivity.

Chop Gun / Fiberglass Operations: Operate a fiberglass chop gun to apply chopped fiberglass and resin to molds, plugs, prototypes, and other composite structures. Properly mix and apply resin, catalyst, and fiberglass materials according to established procedures. Maintain appropriate fiberglass thickness, coverage, and laminate quality. Build fiberglass laminates according to drawings, specifications, schedules, and engineering requirements. Perform hand lay-up and assist with other composite fabrication processes as needed. Identify and correct fiberglass application issues, voids, dry spots, air pockets, and other laminate defects. Maintain and clean chop gun equipment, hoses, nozzles, and related tools. Safely handle resins, catalysts, fiberglass, solvents, and other composite materials.

Finishing / Composite Fabrication: Grind, trim, sand, and finish fiberglass components to required dimensions and surface conditions. Remove excess fiberglass, resin, flashing, and other unwanted material. Perform bodywork and surface preparation on plugs, molds, prototypes, and boat components. Fill, fair, and finish composite surfaces to achieve required contours and surface quality. Prepare surfaces for subsequent fiberglass, gelcoat, paint, bonding, or assembly operations. Use hand tools and power tools including grinders, sanders, saws, drills, and other fabrication equipment. Inspect finished work for dimensional accuracy, surface quality, and compliance with PD&E requirements. Make adjustments and repairs as necessary to achieve the desired finished product.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Knowledge of fiberglass and composite fabrication processes. Ability to operate a fiberglass chop gun safely and effectively. Ability to perform fiberglass hand lay-up, grinding, trimming, sanding, and finishing. Ability to read and understand basic measurements, drawings, and work instructions. Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality. Ability to use hand tools and power tools safely. Ability to work independently while also working effectively as part of a team. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions. Ability to identify problems and make appropriate corrections. Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing and development environment. Good communication and teamwork skills. Willingness to learn new processes, materials, tools, and techniques.

Preferred Qualifications: Previous experience in fiberglass boat manufacturing. Experience with composite fabrication, laminating, or finishing. Experience operating a fiberglass chop gun. Experience with molds, plugs, tooling, or prototype construction. Experience with gelcoat, polyester resin, vinyl ester resin, or epoxy systems. Experience using grinders, sanders, and other composite fabrication equipment. Previous experience in a marine manufacturing or boatbuilding environment.