CNC Operator (Composites) – Wave Energy

About the role

As a CNC Operator you will program, run and optimise a sophisticated CNC system that combines filament winding, spray application and milling for large composite hulls. You will join the Composite Manufacturing Team in Portugal and help build a world‑class, safety‑driven production environment for wave‑energy technology.

Key responsibilities

• Program and optimise CNC machines for filament winding, spray coating and milling operations.
• Lead the bespoke winding cell for 10 m diameter composite hulls, ensuring safety, throughput and product quality.
• Define and implement machine improvements – tooling, jigs, software, spare parts.
• Plan and execute preventive maintenance for winding, spray and milling functions.
• Manage in‑house spare‑parts inventory to minimise downtime and cost of ownership.
• Operate filament/band winding machines, resin mixers, chop‑strand guns, electrical stitchers and related equipment.
• Provide feedback to the composite design team to improve product design and component selection.
• Maintain compliance with national/EU safety directives and continuously improve safety in the Mobile Factory Cell.
• Support the preparation and testing of prototype parts or coupons.

Required profile

• Minimum 5 years of experience in CNC programming, optimisation and operation.
• Proven experience with automated large‑scale composite manufacturing (e.g., aeronautics, wind energy, racing‑yachts).
• Strong focus on repeatability, quality, safety and efficiency.
• Ability to work closely with engineering, design and production teams.

Required skills

• CNC programming
• CNC operation
• Filament winding
• Spray coating application
• Milling
• Composite manufacturing processes
• Tooling and jig design
• Maintenance planning
• Spare‑parts management
• Resin mixing
• Chop‑strand gun operation
• Electrical stitching

What we offer

• Autonomy and flexibility within a high‑impact, mission‑driven environment.
• Opportunity to contribute to the global energy transition through wave‑energy technology.
• Collaboration with a world‑class, safety‑focused team.