Job Title: COPV (Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessel) Technician
American CNG is a leading provider of Natural Gas Vehicle (NGV) components committed to delivering sustainable and efficient energy solutions. We are seeking a highly motivated individual with an entrepreneurial mindset to join our dynamic team.
The COPV Technician plays a critical role in ensuring product quality, production efficiency, and the safe operation of specialized equipment used to manufacture Type IV CNG cylinders. Responsibilities include inbound quality inspections, liner preparation, filament winding, curing operations, hydrostatic and leak testing, oven and drying cycles, and final cylinder preparation.
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, quality-focused, self-driven, and maintains a positive attitude in a fast-paced production environment. If you enjoy hands-on technical work, take pride in craftsmanship, and want to be part of a growing advanced manufacturing operation, this role is for you.
- Perform inbound quality inspections on plastic liners, end domes, and composite materials
- Verify dimensional accuracy, material condition, and documentation compliance
- Prepare liners for production including surface cleaning, masking, end-plug installation, or other prep steps as required
- Operate and monitor the filament winder, ensuring correct fiber tension, patterns, speeds, and filament usage
- Perform machine setups, load materials, verify programs, and ensure stable winding conditions
- Complete in-process inspections during and after winding to ensure proper fiber placement, coverage, and quality
- Load and unload cylinders into the curing oven / dryer based on the production schedule
- Run thermal cycle programs according to specifications (temperature, time, loading patterns)
- Perform post-cure inspections and verify cure quality standards
- Operate the hydrostatic tester, including mounting cylinders, pressurizing, recording expansion, and reviewing results
- Conduct pressure leak tests to verify cylinder integrity and compliance with test standards
- Follow safety procedures for high-pressure testing equipment and maintain accurate test records
- Perform after-production quality inspections including visual inspection, dimensions, resin cure, and documentation review.
- Cleaning and residue removal
- Labeling and stickers
- Engraving or serial marking
- Installing protective dome caps or end covers
- Build and assemble shipping crates; package cylinders securely for transport
- Complete all required production, quality, and test documentation accurately
- Follow NGV2, FMVSS-304, ISO and internal quality standards
- Maintain a clean and organized work area
- Adhere to all safety protocols for operating heavy equipment, high-pressure systems, and thermal machinery- Ability to analyze data and draw actionable insights
- Entrepreneurial spirit with a proactive and results-oriented mindset
- Demonstrates eagerness to acquire new product knowledge
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
- Mechanical aptitude; ability to operate, adjust, and troubleshoot production machinery.
- Ability to read basic prints, work instructions, and measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges).
- Comfortable working around pressurized systems, ovens, moving machinery, and composite materials.
- Ability to lift 50+ lbs and stand for extended periods.
- Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Experience in composites manufacturing, COPV production, CNG systems, aerospace, or industrial manufacturing
- Prior experience with hydrostatic testers or high-pressure equipment
- Killer company lunches with plenty of smoked meats
If you are a motivated individual ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role with excellent growth potential, we invite you to apply. Send your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience to kira@americancng.com. Please include "COPV Technician - [Your Name]" in the subject line.
American CNG is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply.