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Composite Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UAS Composites Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled UAS Engineer with a focus on composite structures and payload integration to support the design, development, and deployment of advanced unmanned aerial systems (UAS)

Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Composite Advantage delivers design, engineering and manufacturing of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites. CCG is the leading innovator of structural composites for the infrastructure market.

Apply Early

Composites Engineer

Harriman, TN · On-site

$81K - $107K/yr

Develop and optimize advanced composite systems for both structural and nonstructural applications. * Partner with design teams to select materials and define layups, fiber architecture, and resin ...

Composites Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$78K - $103K/yr

Develop and optimize advanced composite systems for both structural and nonstructural applications. * Partner with design teams to select materials and define layups, fiber architecture, and resin ...

UAS Composites Engineer

Bingen, WA

$94K - $124K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled UAS Engineer with a focus on composite structures and payload integration to support the design, development, and deployment of advanced unmanned aerial systems (UAS)

UAS Composites Engineer

Sterling, VA

$89K - $117K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled UAS Engineer with a focus on composite structures and payload integration to support the design, development, and deployment of advanced unmanned aerial systems (UAS)

Apply Early

UAS Composites Engineer

Bingen, WA

$94K - $124K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled UAS Engineer with a focus on composite structures and payload integration to support the design, development, and deployment of advanced unmanned aerial systems (UAS)

Apply Early

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Composite Engineer information

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$65K

$103.6K

$134K

How much do composite engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for composite engineer in the United States is $103,596.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $119,000.00 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 cities are hiring for Composite Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Composite Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Composite Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Composite Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Composite Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Composite Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Composite Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 73% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 5% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,596 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Lead, Composite Manufacturing Engineer

L3HHCM20

Huntsville, AL

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

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.

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