Manufacturing Technician (Paraplast/Washout) (Swing Shift)

Unitech Composites Inc. (Unitech) Business Unit
10413 N. Aero Drive, Hayden, ID 83835
APEXSDS.COM

Job Title: Manufacturing Technician (Paraplast/Washout) Job Status: Full Time

Department: Operations Reports To: Value Stream Manager

FLSA Status: Non-exempt Travel Requirements: None

Work Schedule: Swing Shift: 1:00PM-11:30PM, Mon-Thurs Location: Hayden, ID

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Manufacturing Technician in Paraplast/Washout is responsible for executing the Paraplast mandrel removal process from composite parts using a water-based washout procedure. This role requires strict adherence to safety protocols, environmental guidelines, and process documentation. The technician will also assist in tank maintenance, water recycling operations, and quality inspections to ensure parts meet the required standards prior to moving into downstream processes.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Review Work Order (WO) and Resident Manufacturing Plan (RMP) to understand part-specific requirements.
• Ensure compliance with all safety procedures, including proper PPE usage and hazard awareness per SDS sheets and company safety manual.
• Carefully debag composite parts without damaging the product; remove vacuum gaskets, thermocouples, and bagging material as required.
• Identify and remove excess Paraplast material using grinders while avoiding damage to parts.
• Use identifiers and update documentation accordingly prior to staging parts for washout.
• Submerge parts in heated tanks (160–200°F), ensuring optimal water flow through part inlets and crevices.
• Monitor dissolution of mandrel materials and perform additional rinsing using vinegar-water solution or clean water as needed.
• Use a digital endoscope for Foreign Object Debris (FOD) inspection inside complex parts.
• Allow parts to dry thoroughly before transferring to the Washout Outgoing Shelf.
• Perform tank cleaning, sludge removal, and recycling of washout water in accordance with environmental and hazardous waste protocols.
• Maintain heater settings and verify overnight tank temperatures for next-day readiness.
• Replace washout water after a maximum of three use cycles and label all waste materials per hazardous disposal guidelines.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience: Prior experience in composites manufacturing, industrial washing processes, or materials handling preferred.
• Skills:
  • Attention to detail and manual dexterity
  • Ability to follow work instructions and document steps accurately
  • Comfortable working with heated equipment and hazardous materials
  • Familiarity with FOD prevention, PPE use, and basic shop safety
  • Ability to use digital tools such as inspection scopes and grinders

COMPETENCIES:

• Initiative & Problem Solving
  • Identifies and addresses issues proactively
  • Evaluates options and implements effective solutions
  • Seeks process improvements and considers consequences before acting
• Teamwork & Relationship Building
  • Builds and maintains positive relationships with coworkers, leaders, and external contacts
  • Communicates respectfully and professionally
  • Fosters team morale and embraces diverse perspectives
• Safety
  • Follows all safety guidelines and housekeeping practices
  • Properly cares for equipment
  • Completes 100% of safety training and required safety actions
• Job Knowledge
  • Demonstrates expertise and accuracy in job tasks
  • Applies best practices and stays current in field
  • Uses proper tools and maintains high-quality standards
• Delivering Results
  • Focuses on goals and meets deadlines
  • Prioritizes tasks effectively
  • Responds constructively to challenges and obstacles
• Continuous Improvement
  • Participates in lean initiatives (5S, Kaizen, RCCA, Value Stream Analysis)
  • Proactively seeks improvements
  • Shows enthusiasm for enhancing work processes and environment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Frequently required to stand, bend, reach, and lift objects up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work around heated tanks, water, and slippery surfaces.
• May require use of a scissor lift and handling of barrels or hoses.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts, dust, fumes or airborne particles.
• Will be required to wear protective gear and follow proper safety precautions.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be loud at times.
• Unitech Composites is an equal opportunity employer.