Laminate layers of fiberglass on molds to form boat decks and hulls, bodies for golf carts, automobiles, or other products.
SOC: 51-2051.00
Common Job Titles
Boat Builder
Chopper Gun Operator
Fiberglass Laminator
Laminator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onPerform fiberglass lamination processes on molds using chopper guns, rollers, and spray equipment to fabricate boat hulls, vehicle bodies, and composite products.
Developing
Hands-onOperate fiber reinforced polymer application equipment and curing ovens following production schedules and safety protocols in manufacturing settings.
Developing
KnowledgeIllustrate fiberglass layup techniques and resin application methods when training new fabricators on composite manufacturing processes.
Developing
Hands-onExecute inspection and quality control procedures using micrometers and visual assessment to verify composite product specifications and structural integrity.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain chemical properties of resins and catalysts to ensure proper mixing ratios and curing times for fiberglass applications.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate hand tools and power equipment for trimming, sanding, and finishing fiberglass parts to specified tolerances.
Developing
KnowledgeCompare finished composite products against quality standards and design specifications to identify defects, voids, or delamination requiring rework.
Developing
KnowledgeApply production and processing knowledge when coordinating work sequences with team members to optimize fabrication workflow.
Developing
MindsetEngage in safety practices and personal protective equipment usage when working with volatile resins and fiberglass materials in manufacturing environments.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate troubleshooting procedures for lamination defects by identifying root causes such as improper resin mix, insufficient catalyst, or contamination.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Fiberglass Laminators and Fabricators (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
18,520
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,950. 25th percentile: U.S. $39,230. 50th percentile: U.S. $45,760. 75th percentile: U.S. $51,530. 90th percentile: U.S. $61,370. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$35,950
10% of workers earn the following or more
$61,370
Workers on average earn
$47,320
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Administration and Management3.9/5
Production and Processing3.8/5
Education and Training3.6/5
Chemistry3.3/5
English Language3.2/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
