WL - VPI Operator

Ward Leonard, a Fairbanks Morse Defense Company, is an industry-leading provider of electric motor, generator, control, and service solutions critical to Naval applications for more than 120 years. Located in Thomaston, Connecticut, Ward Leonard has worked hard to build a reputation as being a trusted name in powering the defense industry. This trust within the market is not possible without the continued hard work, commitment, and dedication of our team who respect the importance of what we do and the impact it has on the servicemen and women. Mission-Driven. Honor-Bound. Fairbanks Morse Defense. What’s your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense, it’s the rapid and effective support of the fleets that entrust us to design, develop, and deliver the best naval power technology on the planet. We’re one of the nation’s leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and Canadian Coast Guard. When you join Fairbanks Morse Defense, you join a legacy of commitment that spans 150 years. Fairbanks Morse Defense offers competitive benefits with a wide range of training and development opportunities. Our world-class teams are dedicated to helping every individual achieve their full potential. Discover what it’s like to be a part of the Fairbanks Morse Defense team here:

Position Overview:

The VPI (Vacuum Pressure Impregnation) Operator will support the Winding department. They will conduct the process for coating / impregnation of wound stators, armatures and coils with epoxies, resins and varnishes. Conduct all lifting and handling for these products while they go through these processes. Be able to check for defects before and after the dipping processes

In this function you will:

• Set up and operate the VPI system including vacuum, pressure, and temperature controls.
• Load components into the VPI chamber.
• Monitor vacuum and pressure levels throughout the cycle to ensure correct impregnation.
• Preheat components as per process requirements.
• Clean and dry motor components (e.g., stators, coils) before impregnation.
• Mask or protect areas that should not encounter resin or varnish.
• Perform basic maintenance and cleaning of the VPI tank and associated equipment.
• Record process data (e.g., cycle times, temperatures, resin usage).
• Inspect impregnated components for complete resin penetration and surface quality.
• Dispose of used materials (resins, filters) per environmental and safety guidelines.
• Performs other job-related duties as required.

Basic (Required) Qualifications:

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent qualification from an accredited school.
• 1 year of experience in manufacturing or construction environment.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of basic shop math and ability to read and comprehend detailed work instructions
• 1-2 years of lifting and handling experience
• Ability to plan out batch style processing on multiple pieces of equipment
• Experience with sheet metal punching and forming a plus.
  
  

Position Criteria:

• Ability to read and interpret work orders and production documentation.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Must be able to work in a manufacturing floor setting and required to follow the PPE

requirements.

• Ability to communicate with managers, engineering, and quality regarding production and issues.
• Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 35 lbs.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time. Repetitive motion including but not limited to lifting, bending, and squatting is inherent to this position

Fairbanks Morse Defense offers a competitive benefits package including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances, and 401k retirement plan with employer match. In addition, we offer paid time off, paid holidays, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled