Job Overview
Tartan Yachts is seeking a full-time Lamination Technician who is responsible for the fabrication of fiberglass and composite structures used in Tartan Yachts production sailboats. Working with hand layup, vacuum infusion, and related composite processes, this position requires precision, a strong eye for quality, and the physical endurance to perform sustained production work to the high standards Tartan is known for.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Perform hand layup of fiberglass, carbon fiber, and cored composite structures including hulls, decks, bulkheads, and interior components
- Execute vacuum infusion processes: set up infusion plumbing, apply bagging film, conduct leak checks, and monitor resin flow and cure
- Mix and apply polyester, vinyl ester, and epoxy resin systems to specification; monitor pot life, gel times, and ambient cure conditions
- Cut, pattern, and stage fiberglass, biaxial, woven roving, and core materials (balsa, foam) prior to layup
- Apply and fair tooling gel coat and surface coats in molds; monitor film build and cure
- Operate and maintain lamination tooling, molds, and equipment; report wear or damage promptly
- Inspect laminates for voids, delamination, dry spots, and print-through; perform repairs as required and document non-conformances
- Follow all production schedules, quality control checkpoints, and materials traceability requirements
- Maintain a clean and safe lamination environment; comply with OSHA requirements for respiratory protection, PPE, and hazardous material handling
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and cross-training within the composite manufacturing team
Qualifications / Requirements
- Minimum 2 years of fiberglass lamination experience in a marine, aerospace, or industrial composite manufacturing environment
- Hands-on experience with vacuum infusion processes strongly preferred
- Familiarity with resin systems including polyester, vinyl ester, and epoxy
- Ability to read and work from engineering drawings, layup schedules, and work instructions
- Strong quality orientation and attention to detail in a production environment
- Physical stamina to perform repetitive overhead and confined-space work; ability to lift 50 lbs
- Respiratory fit-test clearance and comfort working with PPE required
- Composite fabrication or boatbuilding coursework a plus
Salary: Competitive hourly rate based on experience and production incentive opportunities.
