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Composite Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Senior Composite Engineer (SME1)

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$88K - $117K/yr

The engineer will work on composite components for launch vehicles, propulsion systems, and spacecraft structures. This position is ideal for a strong composites engineer looking to grow into MSFC ...

Senior Composite Engineer (SME1)

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$99K - $134K/yr

The engineer will work on composite components for launch vehicles, propulsion systems, and spacecraft structures. This position is ideal for a strong composites engineer looking to grow into MSFC ...

Perform structural composite repairs, fabrication, and rework on aircraft components in accordance with FAA-approved data and engineering requirements. * Read and interpret Structural Repair Manuals ...

Composite Technician B Job Code: 39425 Job Location: Huntsville, AL Job Schedule: 4/10: Employees ... Coordinate with maintenance, supervision and/or engineers in the set-up and calibration of ...

Composite Technician C Job Code: 37277 Job Location: Huntsville, AL Job Schedule: 4/10: Employees ... Coordinate with maintenance, supervision and/or engineers in the set-up and calibration of ...

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Composite Engineer information

See Alabama salary details

$58.9K

$93.9K

$121.5K

How much do composite engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for composite engineer in Alabama is $93,898.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,600.00 and $107,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What are some common challenges a Composite Engineer faces when working on new product development?

Composite Engineers often encounter challenges related to material selection, process optimization, and balancing performance with cost during new product development. They must ensure that chosen composites meet strict mechanical and environmental requirements while remaining manufacturable at scale. Collaborating closely with design, manufacturing, and testing teams is crucial to address these challenges, as is staying updated on new materials and fabrication techniques. Additionally, Composite Engineers frequently perform iterative testing and analysis to refine prototypes and achieve project goals.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, software, and systems engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions typically require advanced skills, a strong track record, and sometimes work in high-demand industries or locations with premium compensation packages.

What Is a Composite Engineer?

Composite engineers utilize composite materials, such as resins, carbon fiber composites, and glass fiber-based materials, to design structures and buildings. Composite materials are made by combining two substances with different properties that, when put together, produce a more durable product. These composites are used to build bridges, buildings, spacecraft, imitation granite, and other structures that need to withstand demanding situations. As a composite engineer, you specialize in how to utilize these materials to design projects to meet client needs. To become a composite engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in engineering with a specialization in mechanical or structural engineering. Most positions require a minimum of five year’s experience with AutoCAD and a proven track record of successful projects.

What is the difference between Composite Engineer vs Materials Engineer?

AspectComposite EngineerMaterials Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, certifications in compositesBachelor's or higher in materials science or engineering, certifications in materials testing
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and analyzing composite materials in aerospace, automotive, or sports industriesResearching, developing, and testing various materials including metals, polymers, and composites across multiple industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace, automotive, sports equipment, and marine sectorsWidely used across aerospace, manufacturing, construction, and product development sectors

Composite Engineers focus specifically on designing and analyzing composite materials, while Materials Engineers work with a broader range of materials including metals, polymers, and composites. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but their applications and industry focus differ.

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 degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management or technical expertise.

What does a composite engineer do?

A composite engineer designs, develops, and tests composite materials and structures used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and sports equipment. They analyze material properties, create manufacturing processes, and use tools like CAD software to ensure structural integrity and performance. Strong knowledge of materials science, engineering principles, and quality standards is essential for this role.

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

To thrive as a Composite Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, mechanical engineering principles, and experience with composite materials, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in CAD software, finite element analysis (FEA) tools, and knowledge of industry standards like ASTM or ISO is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, innovative, and efficient design and production of composite components in industries such as aerospace and automotive.
What are popular job titles related to Composite Engineer jobs in AL? For Composite Engineer jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Senior Composite Engineer (SME1)

Senior Composite Engineer (SME1)

Amentum

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$88K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Join Our Journey
At Amentum Space Exploration Division (ASED your growth is our priority! That's why we offer an array of exciting opportunities for your career development. From the transformative Team Lead Academy to education reimbursement, personalized mentoring, and engaging company-sponsored networking events, you have the power to shape your professional journey in a way that aligns with your aspirations.
Find Your Community
At the heart of our thriving business are the incredible people who make it all possible. We celebrate a vibrant array of cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Here, we foster an environment where everyone-employees, clients, and partners alike-are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Prioritize Your Well-Being
Our extensive benefits package is designed with your health in mind. Enjoy wellness programs, paid holidays, generous time off, employee perks, and so much more. We're here to help you achieve a harmonious balance in your life-both at work and at home.
Together, We Soar
Our dynamic team consists of 10 companies united in a single mission: to venture from Moon to Mars and beyond. Join us on this extraordinary adventure!
Position Overview This role supports composite structures design, analysis, and manufacturing for NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) programs. The engineer will work on composite components for launch vehicles, propulsion systems, and spacecraft structures. This position is ideal for a strong composites engineer looking to grow into MSFC-specific requirements and advanced spaceflight applications. Must be a US citizen and have a STAR ID.
Key Responsibilities
Composite Design & Analysis
  • Perform design and analysis of composite components for aerospace structures.
  • Develop laminate schedules, evaluate material behavior, and assess structural performance under mechanical and thermal loads.
  • Support FEA modeling activities including linear and basic non-linear analysis, buckling checks, and failure assessments.
  • Participate in trade studies and support requirements development.

Program Support & Collaboration
  • Work directly with MSFC engineering teams, suppliers, and other contractors to develop composite solutions.
  • Support design reviews (PDR, CDR) by preparing presentation materials and technical documentation.
  • Contribute to testing plans, NDI evaluation, and verification activities as needed.

Manufacturing & Materials
  • Support composite fabrication activities including autoclave layup, AFP/ATL, and resin infusion processes.
  • Participate in tooling reviews, process development, and troubleshooting of manufacturing issues.
  • Assist with material evaluation, process documentation, and coordination with manufacturing engineering.

Testing & Verification
  • Support composite component testing, data review, and correlation activities.
  • Assist with structural test planning, failure investigation activities, and corrective action discussions.

General Responsibilities
  • Maintain configuration, documentation, and compliance with engineering processes.
  • Communicate effectively across disciplines and contribute to a collaborative team environment.

Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, materials engineering, or related field.
  • 10-15+ years of experience working with composite materials and structural components (aerospace preferred).
  • Experience with composite laminate design, basic FEA, and mechanical/thermal load assessment.
  • Hands-on familiarity with composite manufacturing processes such as autoclave layup, AFP/ATL, or RTM/VARTM.
  • Proficiency in CAD and FEA tools (CATIA, NX, SolidWorks, Abaqus, ANSYS, or Nastran).
  • Ability to work within structured engineering processes and deliver high-quality technical documentation.

Preferred (Nice-to-Have) Qualifications
  • Experience supporting spaceflight, launch vehicle, or defense composite structures.
  • Exposure to cryogenic composites, pressure vessels, or large-scale aerospace structures.
  • Familiarity with NASA/MSFC standards or similar government requirements.
  • Experience with NDI methods such as UT, thermography, or X-ray.
  • Scripting or automation experience (Python, MATLAB).

Essential Functions
Work Environment:
Office environment. Requires ability to provide clear, concise, accurate and timely communication, both verbally and in writing (100%). Requires ability to interact professionally with co-workers, management, and client (100%). Requires travel in the domestic USA (5%). Requires ability to work at a computer for long periods of time (100%).
Physical Requirements:
Requires sitting for extended periods of time in meetings with peers, management, and with our client at NASA facilities to discuss technical issues (10%). Also, requires sitting for extended periods of time at a desk to write reports and perform engineering tasks (80%). Requires ability to use stairs or elevators for access between floors and multiple buildings at NASA and our facilities (10%).
Equipment and Machines:
Requires ability to operate a personal computer, a telephone, fax machine, copier, calculator, and other general office equipment (100%).
Attendance:
Normal workday 7:30-4:30, Monday thru Friday. Minimal overtime may be required (10%) to meet schedule milestones and to support technical demands of the job. Regular attendance is a necessity, and adequate arrangements for delegating duties during absences are required.
Other Essential Functions:
The ability to work independently with minimal supervision, and to make rational decisions, and to exercise good judgment is essential (100%). Grooming and dress must be appropriate for the position and must not impose a safety risk/hazard to the employee or others.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship is required.
#ESSCA #ASED #Amentum
Compensation Details:
SME1
The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.
Benefits Overview:
Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)
  • Educational reimbursement
  • Parental leave
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Tax-saving options
  • Disability and life insurance
  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.
Original Posting:
07/02/2026 - 07/31/2026
Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.
Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language at Labor Laws Posters.