Lead Composite Technician
AO Racing · St Charles, IL · 1 wk ago
On-siteInformation TechnologyFull-time
About the role
As Lead Composite Technician, you will oversee AO Racing's composites department while remaining hands-on in the fabrication, repair, and development of race-winning components. This role is responsible for setting quality standards, managing departmental priorities, mentoring team members, and ensuring the delivery of high-performance composite parts that support our race and development programs.
You'll be great at this role if you:
- Are a hands-on leader who enjoys mentoring and developing technicians
- Thrive in high-pressure motorsports environments where precision and speed matter
- Can balance multiple priorities while maintaining exceptional quality standards
- Communicate effectively with engineers, mechanics, and race operations personnel
- Continuously look for ways to improve efficiency, quality, and reliability
- Are highly organized, detail-oriented, and committed to maintaining a clean work environment
- Are comfortable traveling and supporting race weekends as needed
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the composites department, including workload planning, scheduling, and team development
- Fabricate, repair, and maintain composite components including bodywork, aerodynamic surfaces, and structural assemblies
- Coordinate with engineering and race operations teams to support vehicle development and race preparation
- Perform advanced composite manufacturing processes including vacuum bagging, autoclave curing, and repair work
- Establish and maintain quality standards, procedures, and documentation
- Manage composite materials, tooling, consumables, and inventory
- Support testing and race events, including trackside repairs and damage assessment
- Read, understand, and follow series regulations, homologation specs, and tolerances
- Monitor and track wear items and report to engineers when they are out of spec
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on performance, quality, and efficiency
- Maintain a safe, clean, and professional work environment while representing AO Racing on and off the track
Qualifications & Experience
- 5+ years of composite fabrication and repair experience, preferably in professional motorsports, aerospace, or a high-performance manufacturing environment
- Prior leadership, supervisory, or mentoring experience preferred
- Strong knowledge of composite manufacturing and repair techniques, including vacuum bagging and autoclave curing
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and engineering specifications
- Strong planning, organization, and project management skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Proven ability to perform under pressure and meet tight deadlines
- Willingness to travel and work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays
- High school diploma or equivalent required; related technical education preferred
Benefits
- 100% paid medical, dental and vision premiums for employees and their eligible family members
- Life Insurance
- Paid Vacation and Sick Leave
- Retirement Plan
- Parental Leave
- All travel expenses covered
- Modern, clean, and well-equipped shop
- Great team environment and work ethic