Precision. Pride. Performance.
Built in the Gorge. Flown Around the World.
At Applied Aerospace and Defense – White Salmon, we engineer advanced composite solutions that serve aerospace, defense, industrial, marine, automotive, and other high-performance industries. Located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, just one hour east of Portland, this is where cutting-edge manufacturing meets an unmatched lifestyle.
Our team takes pride in building world-class products, solving complex engineering challenges, and continuously improving the way we work. If you are driven by innovation, hands-on problem solving, and the desire to create equipment that powers next-generation manufacturing, we invite you to join us.
OVERVIEW OF POSITION:
The primary purpose of the Oven Operator I position is to support the curing of composite components by preparing parts, loading them into production ovens, monitoring basic cycle parameters, and completing post-process tasks according to established work instructions. This role ensures parts are processed accurately, safely, and efficiently while learning the foundational skills required for advancement within thermal processing operations.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Prep & Load
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Clean and prepare parts for oven processing
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Read and verify job travelers, part numbers, and part quantities
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Assist in loading parts onto racks, trays, or carts following correct setup instruction
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Help with basic placement of probes or fixtures when required
Oven Processing Support
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Follow standard work instructions to begin and monitor curing cycles
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Observe time and temperature readings and notify a supervisor of abnormalities
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Perform simple checks during the curing cycle under direction
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Ask for clarification whenever unsure about a process or setup
Unload & Post-Process
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Remove basic probes or fixtures
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Clean parts as instructed
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Move parts to the next stage in the workflow
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Enter accurate information in manufacturing logs and digital time systems
Quality & Safety
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Wear required PPE and follow safety protocols
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Maintain clean work areas and support general housekeeping
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Support standard work, continuous improvement, and teamwork
Qualifications
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High school diploma or GED preferred
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Basic math skills
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Detail orientated and able to multitask
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Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
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Willingness to learn technical manufacturing processes
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Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office preferred)
Experience Level
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Entry-level
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No prior aerospace experience required
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Manufacturing experience helpful but not required
Working Conditions
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Indoor production floor
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Exposure to noise, equipment, and composite materials
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Standing/walking for extended periods
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Lifting up to 30 lbs
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Collaborative workspace environment
PPE Provided
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Ear protection
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Safety glasses or goggles
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Gloves
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Face shield
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Respirator (as required)
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Protective apron
Why Join Applied Aerospace?
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4/10 Schedule – Three-day weekends every week
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Competitive Compensation
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Medical, Dental, Vision Coverage
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401(k) Program
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Paid Time Off
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Career Growth in a High-Tech Aerospace Environment
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Work Where Others Vacation – Columbia River Gorge Lifestyle
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as assigned, consistent with business needs and applicable law.
Due to the nature of our work and applicable U.S. export control laws, this position requires International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) eligibility. Only individuals who qualify as a “U.S. person” as defined by ITAR (U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, refugees, or asylees), unless specified otherwise within job description, are eligible for employment.
Applied Aerospace & Defense (“AA&D”) is committed to equal employment opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Applicants who require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to disability, medical condition, or other protected reason may contact the Human Resources Department. Requests will be reviewed in accordance with applicable law.
Where required by law, the applicable pay range and a summary of benefits and other compensation for this position will be provided.
