Composite Trim and Drill Technician
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Read and follow work instructions and engineering drawings
- Trim composite parts to final shape using approved tools and methods
- Drill holes to required size and location using templates or fixtures
- Measure parts using basic inspection tools to confirm tolerances
- Deburr and finish edges to meet quality and safety requirements
- Set up and use jigs and fixtures to hold parts securely
- Identify defects such as delamination and surface damage and report findings
- Document work completed and record inspection results
- Maintain tools and keep a clean and organized workstation
- Follow safety requirements for dust control and personal protective equipment
Top Skills for Success
Precision Measuring
Blueprint Reading
Trim Tool Operation
Drill Tool Operation
Fixture Setup
Composite Material Handling
Dust Control Practices
Quality Inspection
Defect Identification
Attention to Detail
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Composite Laminator
Composite Fabricator
CNC Machine Operator
Production Assembler
Quality Inspector
Transition Opportunities
Senior Composite Technician
Composite Repair Technician
Quality Technician
Manufacturing Technician
Team Lead
Process Technician
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Geometric Dimensioning and TolerancingBorescope InspectionNon Destructive Testing AwarenessRoot Cause AnalysisTool Calibration AwarenessProduction Documentation
Development SuggestionsBuild competency in drawing interpretation and measurement standards, practice consistent documentation habits, and seek guided exposure to inspection methods and defect recognition. Ask to shadow quality and repair teams to understand what downstream teams need from trim and drill work.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry LevelUSD 40,000 to 55,000
Mid LevelUSD 55,000 to 75,000
Senior LevelUSD 75,000 to 95,000
Growth Trend
Steady demand, driven by aerospace production, aircraft maintenance, and growth in composite use across wind energy and transportation manufacturing. Hiring is strongest in regions with large manufacturing plants and repair centers.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
BoeingAirbusSpirit AeroSystemsNorthrop GrummanLockheed MartinSafranGE AerospaceRolls-RoyceVestasSiemens Gamesa
Industry Sectors
Aerospace ManufacturingAerospace MaintenanceDefense ManufacturingWind Energy ManufacturingAutomotive ManufacturingMarine ManufacturingIndustrial Equipment Manufacturing
Recommended Next Steps
1
Create a skills checklist covering trimming, drilling, measuring, and documentation and rate your current level2
Practice blueprint reading weekly using real shop prints and verify measurements on sample parts3
Request cross-training on fixture setup and inspection steps used by the quality team4
Document quantified outcomes such as scrap reduction, rework reduction, and cycle time improvement for your resume5
Complete safety training focused on composite dust handling and proper protective equipment use6
Apply for roles titled Composite Technician, Composite Fabricator, or Manufacturing Technician to broaden options