Fiberglass Laminator

Role Overview

As a Fiberglass Laminator, you will fabricate and finish composite parts used in commercial vehicle bodies, such as bus roofs, refrigerated panels, cowlings, and custom fairings. Your work will turn prepared molds and carefully measured materials into durable, weather-resistant components that meet specified dimensions and surface-quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare molds by cleaning, applying release products, and laying down gelcoat before production.
• Build fiberglass parts using hand lay-up or spray-up methods, placing reinforcement and resin to achieve the required shape and strength.
• Measure and combine resins, catalysts, pigments, and fillers in the specified proportions, accounting for working conditions such as ambient temperature.
• Trim, grind, sand, drill, and detail cured parts to match engineering requirements and provide surfaces ready for painting.
• Bond or fit composite components to vehicle body frames and support assembly as needed.
• Inspect and repair damaged panels or molds, reinforcing composite areas where required.
• Handle, store, and dispose of resins, solvents, and catalysts safely, using suitable ventilation and personal protective equipment.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Two to four or more years of practical fiberglass laminating or composite fabrication experience, ideally involving automotive, marine, or industrial panels.
• A craft certificate, vocational diploma, or technical training in composite technology, plastics processing, mechanical craft, or a related field.
• Hands-on capability in mold preparation, release application, gelcoat work, hand lay-up, and accurate resin-ratio control.
• Ability to use air-powered grinders, sanders, cut-off tools, and other equipment for trimming and finishing composite parts.
• Working knowledge of thermoset materials, including polyester, vinyl ester, and epoxy resins, as well as foam and honeycomb core materials.
• Understanding of chemical-exposure controls and safe use of respirators, gloves, and eye protection.