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Composite Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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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 Aug 6, 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 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a composite engineer?

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:
Infographic showing various Composite Engineer job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,898 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Lead, Composite Manufacturing Engineer

L3 Harris

Huntsville, AL

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


L3Harris rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

L3Harris

Based on 221 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 74,941 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.
L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.
Job Title: Lead, Composite Manufacturing Engineer
Job Code: 39751
Job Location: Huntsville, AL- AMF North
Job Schedule: 4/10: Employees work 10 hour days, 4 days a week
Job Description:
We are seeking a Lead, Composite Manufacturing Engineer to work at our new state-of-the-art Advanced Manufacturing Facility (AMF) in Huntsville, AL, which will be our inert manufacturing facility for fabrication and assembly of composite rocket motor hardware.
The Lead, Composite Manufacturing Engineer is a Subject Matter Expert (SME) with comprehensive knowledge of job area and in-depth knowledge of project management. They manage large, complex project initiatives of substantial importance to the organization with minimal oversight or direction. They communicate within and outside of the organization to explain and influence changes to practices, processes and approaches. They make significant improvements in processes, systems, or products, and provide input into new products/processes to implement operational plans that have measurable impact on business or functional results.
This is a dynamic team that requires motivated, self-starting individuals with hands-on experience. Manufacturing Engineers lead process management activities and create associated documentation for their assigned processes. They must be able to follow company procedures and requirements for the manufacture of advanced, man-rated, and high value aerospace hardware.
Essential Functions:
  • Champion process improvement projects using Lean Manufacturing methodologies.
  • Lead transition efforts for programs moving from other L3Harris facilities to Huntsville.
  • Train and mentor less experienced engineers on manufacturing processes and best practices.
  • Provide in-depth technical knowledge and guidance on manufacturing processes, equipment, and materials.
  • Stay updated with the latest advancements in manufacturing technology and industry best practices.
  • Evaluate and recommend new equipment and technologies to improve manufacturing capabilities.
  • Identify, analyze, and resolve manufacturing issues and bottlenecks.
  • Perform investigations of nonconforming hardware and implement corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.
  • Implement cost-saving measures without compromising quality or efficiency.
  • Ensure that manufacturing processes adhere to safety regulations and environmental standards.
  • Create detailed work instructions, procedures, PFMEAs, and JSAs that meet design, process, quality, safety, and environmental requirements.
  • Provide shop floor support of advanced composite manufacturing processes.
  • Analyze engineering drawings and specifications in support of developing robust and advanced part and tooling designs.
  • Present fabrication processes at customer readiness reviews and present process changes to customers at change board meetings.
  • Travel: 10% travel may be required to support suppliers or other manufacturing sites.
  • Occasional off-shift and weekend work required to support manufacturing schedules.
  • Ability to obtain US Secret Security Clearance.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree and minimum 9 years of prior composite engineering experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior composite engineering experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior composite engineering experience.

Preferred Additional Skills:
  • Hand layup and cure of insulation, composite and/or other materials.
  • Experience writing specifications for new pieces of equipment.
  • Strong GD&T background supporting part validation.
  • CAD modeling experience.
  • Surface preparation for primary substrates to bond rubber or composite materials.
  • Precision assembly of aerospace hardware.
  • Experience with operation of robots, presses, ovens, winders, CNC machines, cutting tables and/or autoclaves.
  • Knowledge of composite materials, including the behavior of different fibers (carbon, glass, aramid) and resin systems.
  • Strong cross-functional communication skills.
  • Strong problem-solving skills.
  • Adaptable to a changing work environment.

#LI-HW1
L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.
Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.
L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish . For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish .

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