What Does a Composite Structures Technician Do?

A Composite Structures Technician inspects, evaluates damage, repairs and replaces damaged aircraft components according to approved engineering data and process requirements using hand and power tools, as well as specialized equipment and materials.

Job -Related Skills, Interests and Values

  • interpreting and using technical data and planning the sequence of work to be performed
  • reading blueprints for composite structures as well as structural repair manual data and non-destructive inspection reports
  • completing written documentation to ensure trace-ability and storage of materials; following error reporting procedures
  • removing paint and surface coating or special fasteners using hand or power tools safely
  • using ratio calculation and mathematical measurements to mix resin systems
  • recognizing and responding to contamination and its forms
  • using decontamination and drying techniques
  • learning and applying sheet metal repair methods
  • communicating effectively with co-workers and supervisors
  • working independently or as a member of a team 

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

To become a Composite Structures Technician you must complete at least Grade 12, ideally with senior credits in Mathematics, Science and English. You should complete 4-6,000 hours (@ three years) of on-the-job training and industry approved theory.

What’s Your Future as A Composite Structures Technician?

Employment in this field is tied to aircraft repair and the air industry as a whole. While recent trends have impacted on travel and therefore on demand for new air transport, demand in this occupation is predicted to remain stable because it is related to the repair and overhaul of existing airplanes, will help to reduce costs, and the industry competes effectively in both the domestic and the larger global markets. Employment opportunities are usually full-time, could involve shirt-work, and will primarily be found in:

  • Aircraft component manufacturing companies
  • Aircraft repair specialty companies
  • Aerospace industry
  • Canadian Forces - Air force division

People with an interest in this occupation may seek further training as an Avionics Technician or  in Aircraft Mechanical Engineering.

.Wage Rate

  • As an Apprentice you earn less than a Journeyperson
  • this rate increases gradually as you acquire skills and gain competency
  • Fully qualified Composite Structures Technicians can earn in a range of $20.00/hour or more, plus benefits. 

Self-Rating

Ask Yourself: Is Working as a Composite Structures Technician for You?

Do you have good hand-eye coordination?

Yes      No

Do you enjoy learning about, mastering and applying different repair processes and techniques?

Yes      No

Do you enjoy working with tools, equipment and machinery?

Yes      No

Do you like to get the job done just right and pay attention to detail?

Yes      No

Can you bend, lift, stretch, stand?

Yes      No

Can you look at a diagram and figure out how things come together?

Yes      No

Do you like to follow a job through from start to finish?

Yes      No

If you answered Yes to most of these questions, a career as a Composite Structures Technician may be for you!

You may also want to explore other careers that require similar interests and skills, such as:

  • Aircraft Assembler
  • Aircraft Structures Technician
  • Aircraft Interior Technician
  • Aircraft Engine Tester
  • Aircraft/Aviation Mechanic
  • Sheet Metal Worker
  • Boilermaker
  • Tool & Die Maker