Boeing composite jobs in 2026: carbon fiber layup, NDI inspection, and composite engineering careers
Boeing builds more carbon fiber composite airframe structure than any other company in the world. The 787 Dreamliner fuselage is roughly 50 percent composite by weight, the 777X features the largest composite wing ever manufactured for a commercial aircraft, and defense programs like the MQ-25 Stingray and the CH-47 Chinook rely on advanced composite components for weight savings and stealth. In 2026, Boeing employs approximately 2,500 workers whose primary responsibility involves fabricating, inspecting, or engineering composite structures across three major production centers: Everett and Auburn in Washington state, North Charleston in South Carolina, and St. Louis in Missouri.
This guide covers the three main career tracks within Boeing composite work — layup technicians, NDI inspectors, and composite design engineers — including realistic salary ranges, hiring requirements, and how to break into each role.
Carbon fiber layup technicians
Layup technicians are the hands-on specialists who build composite parts. They cut prepreg carbon fiber sheets, lay them into molds according to precise ply schedules, operate autoclaves, and perform initial quality checks on cured parts. At Boeing, these roles carry titles like Composite Fabricator, Assembly Mechanic - Composites, or Composite Technician.
What the work involves:
- Reading and interpreting engineering drawings and model-based definitions
- Cutting carbon fiber, fiberglass, and Kevlar prepreg to specified dimensions
- Hand layup of plies into tools and molds, ensuring correct orientation and overlap
- Operating autoclaves and ovens for curing cycles
- Performing vacuum bagging and debulking between plies
- Trimming and finishing cured parts using hand tools and CNC routers
2026 pay ranges by location:
| Location | Entry (0–2 yrs) | Mid (3–7 yrs) | Senior (8+ yrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Everett/Auburn, WA | $48,000–$55,000 | $58,000–$72,000 | $74,000–$88,000 |
| North Charleston, SC | $44,000–$52,000 | $54,000–$68,000 | $70,000–$82,000 |
| St. Louis, MO | $46,000–$54,000 | $56,000–$70,000 | $72,000–$85,000 |
Washington state positions are represented by IAM District 751, which negotiates higher base rates and regular cost-of-living adjustments. South Carolina is a right-to-work state, and Boeing's North Charleston facility is non-union, so pay tends to be slightly lower despite a lower cost of living.
Boeing offers a 12-week Assembly Mechanic Apprenticeship with a dedicated Composites cohort. Apprentices learn hand layup, autoclave operation, and basic NDI techniques while earning full pay. The program is available at Everett and St. Louis and feeds directly into open technician positions. No prior composite experience is required — a high school diploma and the ability to pass a background check are the primary gates.
NDI and NDT inspectors
Nondestructive inspection (NDI) and nondestructive testing (NDT) inspectors verify the structural integrity of composite parts without damaging them. This is a critical role in aerospace — a single missed delamination or void in a carbon fiber panel can compromise an entire airframe structure.
Common inspection methods at Boeing:
- Ultrasonic testing (UT): Uses sound waves to detect internal flaws. Boeing uses both manual and automated UT systems, including large gantry-mounted scanners for fuselage sections.
- Thermographic inspection: Infrared cameras detect heat flow differences that indicate subsurface defects.
- Radiographic testing (RT): X-ray inspection for complex geometry parts where ultrasonic access is limited.
- Visual inspection: Trained inspectors examine surfaces for impact damage, porosity, and cure defects.
2026 NDI salary ranges:
| Certification Level | Base Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NDI Level I | $50,000–$62,000 | Performs inspections under direct supervision |
| NDI Level II | $64,000–$78,000 | Sets up equipment, interprets results, trains Level I |
| NDI Level III | $80,000–$105,000 | Develops procedures, certifies other inspectors |
NDI inspectors at Boeing are certified under NAS-410 standards. Level III certification typically requires 4+ years of method-specific experience and passing a rigorous written and practical exam. Level III inspectors are in short supply across the aerospace industry, so Boeing pays a premium and frequently recruits from military NDI backgrounds.
Composite design engineers
Composite engineers at Boeing design the layup schedules, select materials, run structural analysis, and support manufacturing. These are degree-requiring engineering roles (mechanical engineering, materials science, or aerospace engineering) that sit within Boeing's engineering ladder system.
2026 composite engineer salaries:
| Level | Title | Base Salary |
|---|---|---|
| L1 | Engineer | $78,000–$95,000 |
| L2 | Senior Engineer | $95,000–$120,000 |
| L3 | Lead Engineer | $118,000–$150,000 |
| L4 | Senior Lead Engineer | $145,000–$178,000 |
Composite engineers work with tools like CATIA for design, HyperSizer for laminate optimization, NASTRAN for finite element analysis, and ABAQUS for damage tolerance modeling. Knowledge of out-of-autoclave curing processes and automated fiber placement (AFP) is increasingly valued as Boeing expands these techniques across new programs.
Key programs driving composite hiring in 2026
787 Dreamliner: Ongoing production in Everett and Charleston keeps the largest steady demand for composite workers. Boeing targets producing seven 787s per month in 2026, each requiring thousands of composite parts.
777X: The folding composite wingtip alone is an engineering achievement that requires specialized layup and inspection capabilities. The 777X wing is built in Everett using the world's largest autoclave.
MQ-25 Stingray: This carrier-based autonomous refueling drone uses composite stealth shaping extensively. Production in St. Louis needs composite technicians with security clearances.
T-7A Red Hawk: The advanced trainer jet uses a digitally designed composite airframe. Production is ramping in St. Louis.
Composite workers on classified defense programs in St. Louis often earn 5–10% more than their commercial counterparts in Everett, partly because a Secret or Top Secret clearance limits the available labor pool. If you already hold a clearance from military service, highlight it in your application — it significantly improves your chances and starting pay.
How to get hired for Boeing composite jobs
For technician roles (no degree required):
- Complete a composites certificate program at a community college or trade school. Programs at Edmonds College (WA), Greenville Technical College (SC), and Ranken Technical College (MO) have direct pipelines to Boeing.
- Apply through Boeing's careers portal at jobs.boeing.com. Search for "composite" or "assembly mechanic" and filter by location.
- Prepare for a hands-on assessment that tests your ability to read drawings, measure accurately, and demonstrate fine motor skills.
For NDI inspector roles:
- Get your NAS-410 Level II certification in at least one method (ultrasonic testing is the most in-demand). Community colleges and NDT training schools offer accelerated programs.
- Military veterans with NDI MOS codes (Air Force 2A7X2, Navy AM) are strong candidates — your certifications often transfer directly.
- Apply for NDI-specific postings or contact Boeing's NDI department through their veteran hiring programs.
For composite engineering roles:
- Earn a BS or MS in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or materials science with coursework in composite materials.
- Gain familiarity with composite analysis tools (HyperSizer, NASTRAN, CATIA) through university projects or internships.
- Target Boeing's internship program first — a significant percentage of L1 composite engineers are converted interns.
Browse current Boeing composite openings on the Zero G Talent job board or explore all Boeing careers.
Frequently asked questions
What qualifications do I need for a Boeing composite technician job?
A high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement. Boeing's 12-week apprenticeship program does not require prior composite experience. However, candidates with a composites certificate from a technical college or prior manufacturing experience will be more competitive and may start at a higher pay step. Basic math skills, the ability to read engineering drawings, and comfort working with hand tools are essential.
Do Boeing composite jobs require a security clearance?
Only for defense programs. Commercial aircraft composite work on the 787 and 777X does not require a clearance. Defense programs like the MQ-25 Stingray and T-7A Red Hawk at the St. Louis facility require at minimum a Secret clearance. Boeing will sponsor your clearance if you are a U.S. citizen, but having an existing clearance speeds up your hiring timeline significantly.
How does Boeing composite technician pay compare to other aerospace companies?
Boeing pays competitively with other major aerospace composite employers. Northrop Grumman composite technicians in Palmdale, CA earn similar ranges ($50,000–$85,000) but face higher cost of living. Lockheed Martin's Fort Worth facility pays $48,000–$82,000 for F-35 composite work. Spirit AeroSystems in Wichita offers $44,000–$75,000. Boeing's union representation in Washington state generally results in better benefits and more predictable pay progression than non-union competitors.
Is there career growth from composite technician to engineer at Boeing?
Yes, but it requires a degree. Boeing's Learning Together Program reimburses tuition up to $15,000 per year for employees pursuing relevant degrees. Several composite engineers at Boeing started as technicians, earned their engineering degrees part-time, and transitioned to engineering roles. The path typically takes 4–6 years while working full-time but results in a significant salary increase and career trajectory change.
What is the job outlook for composite workers in aerospace?
Strong and growing. The global aerospace composites market is projected to exceed $45 billion by 2030, driven by fuel efficiency requirements that make lightweight composite structures essential for next-generation aircraft. Boeing's composite workforce needs will increase as 787 production ramps up and new programs incorporate higher percentages of composite materials. NDI inspectors face the tightest labor market — the industry has a documented shortage of qualified Level II and Level III inspectors that is expected to persist through the decade.
