1

Composite Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Composite Design Engineer

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$85K - $112K/yr

Prepare engineering drawings and technical documentation for composite part manufacturing and customer data submissions. * Act as a liaison with production teams during the initial manufacturing ...

Background in aerospace engineering or aerospace-related composite applications. * Ability to develop and refine tooling for composite manufacturing and testing, including mold and layup tooling.

Composite Engineer

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$85K - $112K/yr

Design composite race car and support equipment components for use in all of Team Penske racing ... Generate detailed engineering drawings, laminate specifications, and supporting documentation for ...

Senior Composite Engineer SME

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$88K - $117K/yr

Work directly with MSFC engineering teams, suppliers, and other contractors to develop composite solutions. * Support design reviews (PDR, CDR) by preparing presentation materials and technical ...

Industrial Composite Engineer

Kinston, NC

$84K - $111K/yr

Bachelor degree in Engineering * 5 years experience with AIRBUS composite manufacturing, processes and regulations * Composite Manufacturing skills - Working experiences and study of manufacturing ...

Industrial Composite Engineer

Kinston, NC · On-site

$84K - $111K/yr

Bachelor degree in Engineering * 5 years experience with AIRBUS composite manufacturing, processes and regulations * Composite Manufacturing skills - Working experiences and study of manufacturing ...

Industrial Engineer - Composite

Kinston, NC

$84K - $111K/yr

Bachelor degree in Engineering * 5 years experience with AIRBUS composite manufacturing, processes and regulations * Composite Manufacturing skills - Working experiences and study of manufacturing ...

Senior Composite Engineer SME

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$88K - $117K/yr

Work directly with MSFC engineering teams, suppliers, and other contractors to develop composite solutions. * Support design reviews (PDR, CDR) by preparing presentation materials and technical ...

Industrial Engineer - Composite

Kinston, NC · On-site

$84K - $111K/yr

Bachelor degree in Engineering * 5 years experience with AIRBUS composite manufacturing, processes and regulations * Composite Manufacturing skills - Working experiences and study of manufacturing ...

Composite Supervisor

Austin, TX · On-site

$89K - $118K/yr

As a key member of our growing engineering and production team, you will be responsible for supervising all composite fabrication processes, ensuring that materials meet stringent quality standards ...

Perform composite bonding, assembly, repair, and integration activities. Conduct drilling, trimming, and aerospace fastener installation. Support autoclave operations and composite manufacturing ...

Composite M&P Engineer III

TX · On-site

$88K - $116K/yr

SUMMARY The Composite M&P Engineer III will apply their broad technical knowledge and experience to ... The candidate will serve as an experienced materials engineering to focus in carbon fiber ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Composite Engineering information

See salary details

$65K

$103.6K

$134K

How much do composite engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for composite engineering 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 is composite engineering?

Composite engineering is a specialized field of engineering focused on the design, analysis, and manufacturing of composite materials and structures. Composites are materials made from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties, which remain separate and distinct within the finished structure. Composite engineers work on developing lightweight, high-strength materials used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, marine, and construction. Their work involves understanding material properties, structural behavior, and advanced manufacturing processes to create innovative solutions for demanding applications.

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 expertise in materials science, structural analysis, and a degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, finite element analysis (FEA) tools, and knowledge of industry standards such as ASTM or ISO are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative design and manufacture of composite materials for advanced engineering applications.

What are some typical challenges faced by engineers working in composite engineering, and how can they be addressed?

Engineers in composite engineering often face challenges such as optimizing material selection for performance versus cost, ensuring quality control during manufacturing, and addressing complex failure modes unique to composites. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams, including design, manufacturing, and testing, is crucial for overcoming these challenges. Continuous learning about new materials and manufacturing techniques, along with hands-on problem-solving and collaboration, helps engineers stay ahead and deliver innovative solutions.

What is the difference between Composite Engineering vs Structural Engineering?

AspectComposite EngineeringStructural Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Civil Engineering; certifications varyBachelor's or higher in Civil or Structural Engineering; PE license often required
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing composite materials, working in labs and manufacturing settingsDesigning and analyzing structures like buildings and bridges, working in offices and construction sites
Industry UsageUsed in aerospace, automotive, sports equipment, and marine industriesUsed in construction, infrastructure, and architectural projects

Composite Engineering focuses on developing and testing composite materials for various industries, while Structural Engineering specializes in designing and analyzing physical structures like buildings and bridges. Both roles require engineering degrees, but their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

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, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers or those with specialized skills can earn over $120,000 annually.

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 prototypes, and use tools like CAD software to ensure structural integrity and performance. Strong knowledge of materials science, manufacturing processes, and testing standards is essential for this role.
More about Composite Engineering jobs

What cities are hiring for Composite Engineering jobs?

Cities with the most Composite Engineering job openings:

What states have the most Composite Engineering jobs?

States with the most job openings for Composite Engineering jobs include:

Infographic showing various Composite Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,596 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Lead, Composite Manufacturing Engineer

L3HHCM20

Huntsville, AL

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Lead, Composite Manufacturing Engineer

Job Code: 42581

Job Location: Huntsville, AL- AMF South

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