A professional who sets up and operates autoclaves and auxiliary equipment to cure and bond metallic and nonmetallic aircraft parts and assemblies according to specifications. Respnsibilities include:

• Reads and interprets shop orders and authorization documents to determine bonding process specifications.
• Selects parts and assemblies for simultaneous bonding, based on similarity of processing requirements and autoclave capacity.
• Arranges jigs and fixtures containing parts and assemblies on bonding racks and positions racks in autoclave, manually or using equipment, such as hoist, forklift, or tow.
• Inspects general condition of parts and assemblies, examines positioning of parts and assemblies in jigs and fixtures, and verifies that vacuum bag installation conforms to specifications prior to bonding.
• Connects thermocouples and vacuum lines to fittings on jigs and fixtures and inside autoclave.
• Adjusts manual controls or enters commands in computerized control panel to regulate and activate autoclave power supply, cooling system, vacuum, heat, and pressure gauges and recorders, and to close interlocking autoclave doors.
• Monitors instruments, switches, and recorders and listens for warning signals during autoclave operation to ensure conformance to specifications, and modifies or aborts process as required.
• Maintains manual or computerized autoclave processing records.
• Operates curing ovens and presses with heated platens to cure and bond parts.
• Suggests methods or procedures for improved operations to supervision or liaison personnel.
• Discusses loading, unloading, and operation of autoclaves and auxiliary equipment with other operators and workers to ensure safety of individuals working in and around high-pressure autoclaves.
• May calibrate autoclave system components.