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Composite Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ascent Aerospace, LLC

Composite Technician

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Interface with leads, supervisors, and engineers to solve problems and improve processes. * Perform composite repairs under supervision of more senior staff. * Fabricate composite molds and parts as ...

ascentaerospace

Composite Technician

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

Interface with leads, supervisors, and engineers to solve problems and improve processes. * Perform composite repairs under supervision of more senior staff. * Fabricate composite molds and parts as ...

Ascent Aerospace

Composite Technician

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$22 - $38/hr

Interface with leads, supervisors, and engineers to solve problems and improve processes. * Perform composite repairs under supervision of more senior staff. * Fabricate composite molds and parts as ...

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All JobsComposite Engineer JobsComposite Engineer Jobs in California

Composite Engineer information

See California salary details

$64.1K

$102.2K

$132.2K

How much do composite engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for composite engineer in California is $102,239.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,800.00 and $117,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

How much do composite engineers make in the US?

Composite engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, with experienced professionals and those working in aerospace or automotive industries earning higher. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and certifications, and many roles require knowledge of composite materials and manufacturing processes.

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, manufacturing techniques, and relevant safety standards is essential for this role.
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Composite Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Composite Engineer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,239 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Composite Process Specialist / Engineer

Marina, CA • On-site

Joby Aviation
Aviation • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Joby Aviationexternal

$85K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. At Joby, we've been working to make that dream a reality since 2009 and we're now in the final stages of certifying our aircraft with the FAA. With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, we're now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service.


Joby Aviation is seeking a highly motivated Composite Production Engineer to support composite part fabrication and assembly in a fast-paced production environment.  This role is focused on driving daily build success on the production floor by providing real-time technical support, removing blockers, and improving process stability and rate capability.  The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with composite manufacturing processes and thrives in a high-mix, low-volume aerospace environment, working cross-functionally to bridge engineering and production.


  • Provide real-time engineering support on the production floor to maintain flow and resolve build issues
  • Develop and optimize composite manufacturing processes (layup, cure, trim, bonding, assembly)
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with Design, Tooling, Quality, and Production teams to ensure manufacturability and smooth execution
  • Support root cause analysis (RCCA) and implement corrective/preventive actions to reduce defects, scrap, and rework
  • Create and maintain manufacturing documentation (MWIs, SOPs, process specs) aligned with shop-floor execution
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Kaizen, 5S) to improve efficiency and process stability
  • Support production readiness, capacity planning, and rate ramp-up activities
  • Train and mentor technicians to ensure consistent and high-quality process execution
  • Support and Roll out new processes from NPI and process engineering team to Production line

  • B.S. in Engineering or similar degree
  • 3-5 years as a Manufacturing/Production Engineer 
  • Hands-on experience with composite manufacturing processes such as hand layup, vacuum bagging, curing (autoclave/oven) & bonding and assembly processes
  • Experience writing clear and effective work instructions
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and BOMs
  • Experience in high-mix, low-volume production environments
  • Strong problem-solving skills with a structured approach (RCA, 5-Why, etc.)
  • Strong Technical Communication skills

  • Experience in aerospace or advanced composites industry
  • Familiarity with CAD tools (NX, CATIA, SolidWorks)
  • Experience with PLM and/or MES systems
  • Experience with laser projection systems (e.g., Virtek, Aligned Vision)
  • Experience with composite cutting systems (Gerber, Zund, Eastman)
  • Exposure to AFP/ATL or automated processes
  • Lean Six Sigma certification or equivalent experience

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $85,200 - $135,800/year. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. 

Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.


Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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