1

Composite Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Structural, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent experience. * Significant hands-on experience in structural analysis of composite marine or aerospace structures ...

Bachelor's degree in Structural, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent experience. * Significant hands-on experience in structural analysis of composite marine or aerospace structures ...

Comprehensive experience in advanced Composite and Bonded Structures (ie. Organic/Polymer Matrix ... Computer Aided Engineering software experience * Experience with design for manufacturing ...

Showing results 21-40

Composite Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$56.7K

$90.3K

$116.8K

How much do composite engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for composite engineer in Michigan is $90,294.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $103,700.00 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 Michigan? For Composite Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Composite Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Composite Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Composite Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Composite Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Composite Engineer jobs in MI? For Composite Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Composite Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,294 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Ground Test Systems

ALTEN Technology USA

Lansing, MI

$91K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Description:
  • ALTEN Technology is excited to announce an opening for a Ground Test Design Engineer. 
  • This role offers a unique opportunity to work in a specialized field within engine design and operations.  Ground Test Division designs, manufactures and services test equipment to support development and aftermarket engine programs for all three major engine manufacturers.
  • As a Ground Test Design Engineer, you will be responsible for supporting design functions across product lifecycle of an assembly: a. decomposing customer requirements; b. quoting; c. design development; d. customer approval; e. manufacturing; f. repair development and servicing.   
  • Design work encompasses the final assembly, all subcomponents and any support equipment necessary for the storage and handling of the assembly.  
  • Throughout the long lifecycle of these products, you may be tasked with evaluating any damage from normal operations and developing repairs to restore the assembly or components to original or acceptable requirements.  
What You Will Do:
  • Execute the design, analysis, or evaluation of project assemblies using sound engineering principles and adhering to industry standards, practices, procedures, and product / program requirements.
  • Function as a design/structures engineer for hybrid composite-metallic components used in engine testing stands.
  • Providing design support throughout conceptual, preliminary, detailed design phases, to include validation, customer approval, manufacturing, and operational service.
  • Responsible for material selection, determination of laminate architecture, generation of detail/assembly-level CAD models, and design of sub-element components.  May also include designing to a given surface.
  • Assist in manufacturing process development with the engineering team and ensure the manufacturability of component designs, documenting and presenting results to management and external customers.  Assist shop floor personnel when needed.
  • Review and disposition nonconforming material to technical requirements.
  • Develop and validate repair processes in conjunction with manufacturing team.
  • Support vendor management through reviews of quotes and requests for modifications of technical requirements.
  • Contribute to Cost of Poor Quality efforts, challenge existing processes, and drive improvements.
  • Ensure compliance with established engineering methodologies
  • Use sound engineering judgment, technical expertise, and data analysis to make decisions or solve moderately complex tasks or problems.
  • Provide engineering / technical support in a production environment
Qualifications You Must Have
  • A Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) University Degree or equivalent experience and minimum 10 years prior relevant experience
  • An Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 8 years experience
  • Effective problem identification and solution skills
  • Strong project ownership, execution, and proactive mentalities
  • Experience developing technical ideas with internal/external customers and a track record of converting ideas to programs
  • Experience with mechanical and composite design (machining, joints, fasteners, welding) in relevant industry positions (aerospace, defense, automotive or similar)
  • Experience with GD&T to include determining tolerance requirements.
Qualifications We Prefer
  • Advanced Degree in Engineering
  • Computer Aided Design Software experience: Creo / Windchill (Preferred) or NX / FiberSIM / TeamCenter
  • Computer Aided Engineering software experience 
  • Experience with composite design, analysis, and manufacturing.
  • Familiarity with Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) techniques, such as ultrasonic testing, eddy current, FPI, camera optics, X-ray and others used in aerospace.
  • Experience with design for manufacturing & assembly
  • Understanding of manufacturing cost and reproducibility
  • Familiarity with principles of product development, reliability and quality control
  • Experience with configuration management.
  • Experience with fiber-reinforced polymer composites, specifically: fiberglass, aramid, and/or carbon prepreg and wet layup (especially epoxy resin systems)
  • Experience in advanced Composite and Bonded Structures design and manufacturing(ie. Organic/Polymer Matrix Composites, Fiber Reinforcement, Manufacturing methods, Adhesives, Surface Preparation, etc.)Â