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Composite Material Process Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perform material testing and characterization to verify mechanical, thermal, and environmental ... Process Engineering * Develop, document, and improve composite manufacturing processes. * Establish ...

... composite material and processing specifications, fabrication and assembly processes. Develops ... and quality engineering specifications. Material analyses may include failure analysis of ...

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We are looking for an Engineer Material Process 3 to support our Parts, Materials and Processes (PM ... composite material and processing specifications, fabrication and assembly processes. Develops ...

Material & Process Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$96K - $147K/yr

... composite and aluminum manufacturing solutions. Responsibilities Key Accountabilities * Apply ... Material Selection and Development: Recommend and select processes, coatings, and components ...

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Composite Material Process Engineer information

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$49.5K

$92K

$142.5K

How much do composite material process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for composite material process engineer in the United States is $92,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a composite material process engineer do?

A Composite Material Process Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing manufacturing processes for composite materials, which are materials made from two or more constituent substances with different properties. These engineers work on selecting appropriate materials, developing fabrication methods, and ensuring product quality and performance. They often collaborate with design, production, and quality teams to innovate and troubleshoot manufacturing processes, with applications in industries like aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy. Their work ensures that composite components meet required specifications, are produced efficiently, and maintain structural integrity in their final applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a composite material process engineer?

To thrive as a Composite Material Process Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, engineering principles, and composite manufacturing processes, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical, chemical, or materials engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, finite element analysis (FEA), and industry-specific tools like ASTM testing standards is essential, along with knowledge of quality control systems. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this role. These skills are critical for developing innovative, high-performance composite materials and ensuring efficient, reliable manufacturing processes.

What are some common challenges faced by composite material process engineers and how can they be addressed?

Composite Material Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining material consistency, optimizing manufacturing processes, and ensuring quality control during production. Variability in raw materials and complex curing cycles can impact the final product's performance and reliability. To address these issues, engineers typically collaborate closely with quality assurance, production, and R&D teams, utilize advanced testing methods, and implement continuous process improvements to ensure the integrity and efficiency of composite manufacturing.

What is the difference between Composite Material Process Engineer vs Composite Manufacturing Technician?

AspectComposite Material Process EngineerComposite Manufacturing Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or materials science; certifications like Six Sigma often preferredHigh school diploma or associate degree; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D facilities, manufacturing plantsProduction floors, assembly lines, quality control stations
ResponsibilitiesDesigning processes, optimizing manufacturing methods, troubleshooting issuesOperating equipment, assembling composite parts, inspecting products
Industry UsageUsed across aerospace, automotive, sports equipment industriesPrimarily in manufacturing and assembly sectors of composites

The Composite Material Process Engineer focuses on designing and improving manufacturing processes for composites, requiring technical degrees and analytical skills. In contrast, the Composite Manufacturing Technician handles hands-on production tasks, often with less formal education. Both roles are essential in composite manufacturing, but they differ in scope, responsibilities, and required credentials.

What are popular job titles related to Composite Material Process Engineer jobs?

For Composite Material Process Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Composite Material Process Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,018 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Engineer or Principal Engineer Material & Process - Northrop Grumman

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description

Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems has an opening for an Engineer Material & Process or Principal Engineer Material & Process to join our team of qualified diverse individuals.

This position will be located in El Segundo, CA.

A Material & Process Engineer (T02/T03) researches, analyzes, and tests materials and their related fabrication and application processes to develop and optimize materials for use in engineering design of and/or application in aeronautical structures, systems and subsystems.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Support the Structural Certification Development (SCD) team in developing and executing Engineering Building Block (EBB) composite and adhesively bonded structure test programs. Apply principles of chemistry, physics, and mechanics of materials to design and execute test programs, from fabrication of test specimens to post-testing failure analysis and data reduction of mechanical results to report results and key findings to stakeholders.
  • Support in developing Nondestructive Inspection (NDI) composite reference standards to aid program production NDI inspections. This role works closely with Design, Program Manufacturing and Quality to ensure materials, processes, and designs closely match program production bonded joints and interfaces. This includes reviewing engineering drawings and shop aids, writing fabrication work plans for composite and bonded structures, overseeing fabrication in labs, and coordinating QA inspections (NDI, visual inspections, cross-sectional photomicrographic (PMG) analysis).
  • Support materials and process development, characterization, and qualification for composite laminates, sandwich structures and adhesively bonded assemblies.
  • Develop composite related materials and process specifications, design allowables and fabrication and assembly processes.
  • Performs failure analysis of components, systems and subsystems, life predictions, and prepares definition and requirement specifications. Reviews and approves subcontractor material processing procedures.
  • Coordinates with test laboratory by writing test plans, evaluating vendor material products, documenting test results, and producing test reports along with briefing materials for aerospace grade composite material systems.
  • Solves manufacturing problems and develops detailed M&P requirements from program requirements.
  • Performs project management activities including developing cost estimates and schedules, and tracking progress and cost.
  • This position can be filled at either the Engineer (Level 2) or Principal Engineer level (Level 3.)
Basic Qualifications:
  • Basic qualifications for an Engineer Material & Process include a Bachelor's in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM) and at least 2 years of relevant experience, a Master's Degree in STEM with no years of experience.
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