Automated Ply Cutter Operator - Composites

Employer description

THE COMPANY

Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV manufacturer or operator, Saildrone maintains active, combat-deployed systems supporting national security and force projection around the world, 24/7/365. 

Saildrone’s manufacturing and R&D headquarters are located in Alameda, CA, with business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, an established European entity supporting regional business development, sales, and operations, and a deployment hub in the Middle East. By combining proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing, renewable power, and the most advanced and robust unmanned surface technology on the planet, Saildrone is shaping how the Navy of the future operates. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation.

THE POSITION

Saildrone is seeking an Automated Ply Cutter Operator / Composites Technician to support the production of our uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs). Reporting to our Senior Director of Composite Manufacturing, you will operate automated cutting equipment, prepare precision composite kits, and support CNC machining to enable efficient, high-quality composite fabrication.

We are looking for a detail-oriented, hands-on technician who takes ownership of equipment, material accuracy, and production readiness, with the flexibility to support both cutting operations and composite manufacturing.

THE TEAM

The Composites team is responsible for designing, building, and continuously improving Saildrone’s autonomous maritime platforms. We focus on delivering durable, scalable composite structures that enable reliable global operations across defense, security, and commercial missions. Working closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams, this group ensures that composite components meet demanding operational requirements in harsh maritime environments.

THE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Set up, calibrate, operate, and perform routine maintenance on Eastman automated ply cutting equipment to meet production requirements.
• Import DXF/CAD files into nesting software and optimize cutting layouts to maximize material yield and minimize scrap.
• Cut, label, organize, and kit carbon fiber, fiberglass, core materials, and dry fabrics according to engineering ply books and orientation requirements.
• Inspect cut plies for dimensional accuracy, fiber alignment, and edge quality before releasing kits to composite fabrication.
• Track material shelf life, freezer inventory, roll usage, and lot numbers to support material traceability and quality control.
• Support composite fabrication processes, including infusion, prepreg layup, vacuum bagging, and debulking, as production needs require.
• Operate CNC routers, as qualified, to trim and drill cured composite parts and produce molds, jigs, and tooling.
• Maintain cutting and machining equipment, tooling, and work areas; troubleshoot routine issues, replace consumables, follow safety procedures, and escalate equipment or quality concerns.

THE QUALIFICATIONS

• 2+ years of hands-on experience operating an Eastman automated ply cutter or equivalent cutting table, such as Zünd, Lectra, or Gerber.
• Working knowledge of composite materials, including carbon fiber, fiberglass, aramid, prepregs, core materials, and resin systems.
• Basic familiarity with nesting software, such as Eastman CutPro, TruNest, or Optitex, and the ability to interpret engineering drawings and ply orientation charts.
• Strong attention to detail and organization, including accurate kit labeling, material tracking, and inspection of cut components.
• Ability to identify and troubleshoot routine equipment or cutting issues and maintain consistent quality in a production environment.
• Ability to handle material rolls weighing up to 50 pounds, stand for extended periods, and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Preferred experience operating 3-axis or 5-axis CNC routers to trim composite parts and manufacture molds, jigs, tooling, or fixtures.
• Ability to work collaboratively with composite fabrication and manufacturing teams to meet production priorities and schedules.

The base salary range for this position is shown below. Actual compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and qualifications. This range reflects the base salary for candidates in states requiring pay transparency disclosure.

To view Saildrone's candidate privacy policy, please visit: https://www.saildrone.com/privacy-policy.

BENEFITS

At Saildrone, we’re building operational capability that matters—and that requires people who can do their best work over the long term. We invest in our team’s well-being, financial security, and professional growth so you can focus on delivering real-world impact with confidence and stability. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you and your family while you contribute to a mission with lasting significance. 

• Generous Time Off: Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual plus a robust annual holiday schedule and paid sick leave ensure you can rest, reset, and sustain performance over time.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Premium, multi-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision plans with significant company contributions for employees and dependents—providing security and peace of mind.
• Shared Ownership in the Mission: Equity grants are a core part of our compensation, allowing you to participate in the long-term value you help create through meaningful, operational work.
• Retirement Savings: Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with flexible pre-tax and Roth payroll contribution options supports long-term financial planning.
• Investment in Your Growth: We support your continuous learning through an annual professional development reimbursement program, empowering you to sharpen your skills and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving field.
• Relocation Support: For eligible roles, we offer relocation assistance to help bring the world’s best talent to our mission-critical locations.

Saildrone is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.