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Composite Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Opterus

Composites Engineer

Loveland, CO · On-site

$90K - $128K/yr

We combine cutting-edge composite materials, origami-inspired architectures, and elegant engineering to deliver lightweight, high-performance solutions for commercial, defense, and scientific ...

Opterus

Composites Engineer

Loveland, CO · Hybrid

$90K - $128K/yr

We combine cutting-edge composite materials, origami-inspired architectures, and elegant engineering to deliver lightweight, high-performance solutions for commercial, defense, and scientific ...

Opterus

Senior Composite Technician

Loveland, CO · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

Collaborate directly with engineering to refine layup schedules, troubleshoot design-for ... Build, maintain, and improve composite tooling, including molds, mandrels, and fixtures * Provide ...

Opterus

Senior Composite Technician

Loveland, CO

$100K - $115K/yr

Collaborate directly with engineering to refine layup schedules, troubleshoot design-for ... Build, maintain, and improve composite tooling, including molds, mandrels, and fixtures * Provide ...

Opterus

Structural Engineer II

Loveland, CO · On-site

$98K - $122K/yr

We combine cutting-edge composite materials, origami-inspired architectures, and elegant engineering to deliver lightweight, high-performance structural systems for commercial, defense, and ...

Opterus

Structural Engineer II

Loveland, CO · Hybrid

$98K - $122K/yr

We combine cutting-edge composite materials, origami-inspired architectures, and elegant engineering to deliver lightweight, high-performance structural systems for commercial, defense, and ...

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All JobsComposite Engineer JobsComposite Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Composite Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$68.3K

$108.9K

$140.9K

How much do composite engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for composite engineer in Colorado is $108,933.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,600.00 and $125,100.00 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.
More about Composite Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Composite Engineer jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Composite Engineer jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Composite Engineer jobs in Colorado? For Composite Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Composite Engineer jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Composite Engineer jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Composite Engineer jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Composite Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Composite Engineer jobs in CO? For Composite Engineer jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Composite Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Composite Engineer job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,933 per year, or $52.4 per hour.

Composites Engineer

Opterus

Loveland, CO • On-site

$90K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

Job description

About Opterus

Opterus Research and Development is an aerospace company specializing in advanced deployable space structures and subsystems. We combine cutting-edge composite materials, origami-inspired architectures, and elegant engineering to deliver lightweight, high-performance solutions for commercial, defense, and scientific missions.

Position Overview

Opterus is seeking a Composites Engineer (level II or III) to support the development and production of advanced composite components and structures. This role bridges engineering and manufacturing, focusing on analysis-driven design, process development, manufacturing tooling development, manufacturability, quality, and continuous improvement across composite fabrication, assembly, and inspection. You'll work closely with design engineers, technicians, and program teams to transition innovative composite designs from concept to repeatable, flight-ready hardware.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop, document, and optimize composite manufacturing processes (layup, curing, bonding, trimming, and assembly)
  • Provide input on composite laminates based on structural performance requirements
  • Develop mechanical tooling and GSE system design and fabrication for composite structure manufacturing and test
  • Mold tooling, layup tooling, precision trimming and machining systems, part transfer/handling, verification tooling, etc.
  • Interpret engineering requirements and drive manufacturable designs, work instructions, travelers, and process specifications
  • Support prototype builds, first-article manufacturing, and low-rate production
  • Collaborate with structural engineers to improve composite material system performance, manufacturability, yield, and cost
  • Provide hands-on support on the production floor during builds and troubleshooting
  • Provide material choice inputs for composite layup consumables such as mold release, release films, peel plies, bagging, etc.
  • Identify and implement process improvements to enhance quality, efficiency, and repeatability
  • Assist with root cause analysis and corrective actions for nonconformances
  • Ensure compliance with internal quality systems and applicable aerospace standards

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field
  • 4+ years of experience in composite manufacturing or aerospace manufacturing engineering
  • Working knowledge of composite materials and processes (prepreg, wet layup, autoclave/oven cure, bonding)
  • Working knowledge of composites theory (constituent materials, anisotropy, micromechanics, micromechanics)
  • Experience with CAD design tools (SolidWorks preferred) and mechanical design
  • Experience developing manufacturing documentation and process controls
  • Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced, development-driven environment
  • Strong problem-solving and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with aerospace or space-flight hardware
  • Familiarity with high strain composites
  • Experience supporting prototype and low-volume production programs
  • Understanding of quality systems, first article inspection (FAI), and nonconformance processes

Compensation and Benefits

  • Base salary range of $90,000-128,000 based on experience and qualifications
  • Flexible and hybrid work schedules (two or more days in office per week)
  • Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Life, and AD&D insurance
  • Opterus pays 100% of employees' premiums and 70% of dependents' premiums
  • 401K matching up to 4%
  • 9 paid holidays