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Autoclave Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engineer VI

Poway, CA · On-site

$116K - $208K/yr

GA's Advanced Aircraft Engineering group has an exciting position available for a Materials and ... Familiarity with processing of composite materials including Autoclave cure and Out of Autoclave ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Walkerton, IN · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

The Manufacturing Engineer at Polygon supports the manufacturing operations through process ... Experience in composite materials and processes (e.g., prepreg lay-up, resin infusion, autoclave ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Walkerton, IN

$65K - $84K/yr

Description The Manufacturing Engineer at Polygon supports the manufacturing operations through ... Experience in composite materials and processes (e.g., prepreg lay-up, resin infusion, autoclave ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Walkerton, IN · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

The Manufacturing Engineer will collaborate with production, quality, maintenance, and design ... Experience in composite materials and processes (e.g., prepreg lay-up, resin infusion, autoclave ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Moorpark, CA · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

We're ALTEN Technology USA, an engineering company helping clients bring groundbreaking ideas to ... Hands-on experience with composite manufacturing methods including wet layup, prepreg, autoclave ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Moorpark, CA

$75K - $97K/yr

We're ALTEN Technology USA, an engineering company helping clients bring groundbreaking ideas to ... Hands-on experience with composite manufacturing methods including wet layup, prepreg, autoclave ...

Composites Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$78K - $103K/yr

Composites Engineer - Shape the Future of Advanced Materials Are you passionate about pushing the ... Work side-by-side with manufacturing teams to implement processes such as autoclave curing ...

Validation Engineer

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

Validation Engineer Location: Kenosha, Wisconsin Pay Rate: $50/hr to 55/hr on C2C Schedule: Mostly ... Autoclave and parts washer validation experience strongly preferred. * Experience with cycle ...

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Moorpark, CA

$107K - $142K/yr

... autoclave, and out-of-autoclave processes * Experienced with composite bonding and joining ... MS degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering is preferred * Familiarity with MIL ...

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Moorpark, CA · On-site

$107K - $142K/yr

... autoclave, and out-of-autoclave processes * Experienced with composite bonding and joining ... MS degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering is preferred * Familiarity with MIL ...

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Autoclave Engineer information

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How much do autoclave engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for autoclave engineer in the United States is $72,972.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $101,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Autoclave Engineers?

Autoclave Engineers are professionals who specialize in the operation, maintenance, and validation of autoclaves—high-pressure vessels used to sterilize equipment and materials or to cure composites. They ensure that autoclaves function safely and efficiently, often working in industries such as healthcare, aerospace, or manufacturing. Their responsibilities may include troubleshooting mechanical issues, performing routine maintenance, calibrating instruments, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Autoclave Engineers often collaborate with quality assurance teams and may also train other staff on proper procedures.

What is an autoclave technician?

An autoclave technician is a professional responsible for operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting autoclaves used for sterilization in medical, laboratory, or manufacturing settings. They ensure equipment functions correctly, follow safety protocols, and may require certifications in equipment operation or safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Autoclave Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Autoclave Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of mechanical engineering, sterilization processes, and a relevant engineering degree or technical certification. Familiarity with PLC systems, CAD software, and maintenance protocols for autoclave equipment is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers diagnose issues and coordinate with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure autoclave systems are reliable, compliant, and safe, which is critical for maintaining high standards in medical, laboratory, and industrial environments.

What engineering jobs are in demand right now?

Autoclave engineers are in demand in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and aerospace, where sterilization and pressure vessel design are critical. Skills in mechanical engineering, materials science, and familiarity with industry standards like ASME are often required, along with certifications such as API or ASME codes. Demand is driven by the need for compliance, safety, and efficiency in sterilization processes and equipment design.

What is the difference between Autoclave Engineer vs Autoclave Technician?

AspectAutoclave EngineerAutoclave Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, certifications in sterilization or pressure systemsTechnical diploma or certification in sterilization or equipment maintenance
Work EnvironmentDesign, oversee, and optimize autoclave systems in manufacturing or healthcare facilitiesOperate, maintain, and troubleshoot autoclaves on a daily basis
Industry UsageUsed in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing for sterilization and process validation

The main difference is that Autoclave Engineers focus on designing, developing, and improving autoclave systems, often requiring engineering degrees and certifications. Autoclave Technicians handle the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of autoclaves, typically with technical training. Both roles are essential in industries that rely on sterilization and pressure systems, but they differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced certifications, a strong track record, and work in high-demand industries or companies.

What are some common challenges faced by Autoclave Engineers when maintaining equipment reliability?

Autoclave Engineers often face challenges such as managing complex maintenance schedules, troubleshooting unexpected equipment malfunctions, and ensuring strict compliance with safety and sterilization protocols. They must stay up-to-date with both mechanical and electronic system updates, as autoclaves can include advanced automation features. Effective communication with production, quality assurance, and maintenance teams is essential to minimize downtime and maintain optimal performance.

What engineers make $500,000?

Autoclave engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common among executive-level engineers, specialized consultants, or those in senior management roles with extensive experience and advanced skills. High compensation may also be found in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or technology, especially for those with unique expertise or leadership responsibilities.
More about Autoclave Engineer jobs
Cleared Composite Design and Test Engineer - Weapon Subsystems, Onsite

Cleared Composite Design and Test Engineer - Weapon Subsystems, Onsite

Sandia National Laboratories

Livermore, CA

$121K - $237K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Sandia National Laboratories rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Apply for Job
Job ID
698171
Location
Livermore, CA
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
About Sandia

Sandia National Laboratories is the nation's premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation, with teams of specialists focused on cutting-edge work in a broad array of areas. Some of the main reasons we love our jobs:

  • Challenging work with amazing impact that contributes to security, peace, and freedom worldwide
  • Extraordinary co-workers
  • Some of the best tools, equipment, and research facilities in the world
  • Career advancement and enrichment opportunities
  • Flexible work arrangements for many positions include 9/80 (work 80 hours every two weeks, with every other Friday off) and 4/10 (work 4 ten-hour days each week) compressed workweeks, part-time work, and telecommuting (a mix of onsite work and working from home)
  • Generous vacation, strong medical and other benefits, competitive 401k, learning opportunities, relocation assistance and amenities aimed at creating a solid work/life balance*

World-changing technologies. Life-changing careers. Learn more about Sandia at: http://www.sandia.gov

  • These benefits vary by job classification.
What Your Job Will Be Like

We are seeking a motivated Composite Design Engineer (R&D S&E, Mechanical Engineer) to join our Weapons Subsystems 3 team. In this role, you will apply your knowledge of composite materials and aerospace design principles to develop, analyze, and optimize composite structures for a variety of national security and energy applications. This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates or early-career engineers looking to expand their skills in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment.

We are looking for an engineer to:

  • Support development of composite layups, material selection, and manufacturing process integration.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including materials scientists, manufacturing engineers, and test engineers.
  • Participate in prototype fabrication, testing, and data analysis to validate design concepts.
  • Assist in the design and analysis of composite structures using CAD and FEA tools.
  • Contribute to documentation, technical reports, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies in composite materials and aerospace design.
  • Maintain lab operations and capabilities including safety documentation and worker qualifications.

Work Location: Due to the nature of the work, the selected applicant must be able to work onsite full time in California.

Travel: This position requires occasional travel to Albuquerque, NM, and Kansas City, MO, but the travel will be less than 25% of the time.

Applicants on this requisition may be interviewed by multiple organizations at Sandia National Laboratories.

Salary Range

$121,900 - $237,800

  • Salary range is estimated, and actual salary will be determined after consideration of the selected candidate's experience and qualifications, and application of any approved geographic salary differential.
Qualifications We Require
  • A Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline, or an equivalent combination of directly relevant education and engineering or scientific experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform independent research and development.
  • Active DOE Q Clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain Sigma 14/15.
Qualifications We Desire

The ideal R&D S&E Mechanical Engineer candidate for Sandia National Laboratories will in addition possess the following:

  • Graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering or a highly related field where an independent research project was a graduation requirement (e.g., independent project, MS thesis, or PhD dissertation).
  • Experience with mechanical engineering and product realization in the NNSA complex.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, ability to work effectively on multidisciplinary teams.

Also, for this posting we are seeking individuals with the following experience:

  • Coursework or experience in composite materials, structural analysis, and design principles.
  • Hands-on familiarity with various manufacturing processes for composites (e.g., prepreg layup, resin transfer molding, autoclave programming, etc)
  • Experience with composite materials testing and characterization methods
  • Experience assessing integrity and durability of advanced composite materials and structurally bonded interfaces
  • Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., Creo, Fibersim, SolidWorks, CATIA) and finite element analysis tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus)
  • Understanding of aerospace industry standards and certification processes
  • Experience with controls and robotics, including integration or programming related to automated manufacturing or testing systems
  • Collect, process, and analyze experimental data
  • Manage product qualification and fabrication workflows, from test scoping through prototyping, test execution and documentation
  • Convey technical findings clearly and effectively to diverse stakeholders
About Our Team

The Weapons Subsystems 3 team designs, prototypes and supports mechanical weapon subsystems for high consequence applications requiring exceptionally high confidence, quality and reliability. These projects support a broad mission space including assets that are critical to U.S. national security.

Posting Duration

This posting will be open for application submissions for a minimum of three (3) calendar days, including the 'posting date'. Sandia reserves the right to extend the posting date at any time.

Security Clearance

Position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q security clearance to start, or equivalent active security clearance with another U.S. government agency (e.g., DOD). Sandia is required by DOE directive to conduct a pre-employment drug test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, law enforcement records, and employment/education verifications. Applicants for employment need to be able to maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. If you hold more than one citizenship (i.e., of the U.S. and another country), your ability to obtain a security clearance may be impacted.

Applicants offered employment with Sandia are subject to a federal background investigation to meet the requirements for access to classified information or matter if the duties of the position require a DOE security clearance. Substance abuse or illegal drug use, falsification of information, criminal activity, serious misconduct or other indicators of untrustworthiness can cause a clearance to be denied or terminated by DOE, resulting in the inability to perform the duties assigned and subsequent termination of employment.

EEO

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status and any other protected class under state or federal law.


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About Sandia National Laboratories

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sandia National Laboratories is the nation's premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation, with teams of specialists focused on cutting-edge work in a broad array of areas.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Albuquerque, NM, US

Year founded

1949