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Composite Materials Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Shield AI

Senior Engineer, Materials (R5258)

Dallas, TX

$110K - $170K/yr

You will analyze metals, ceramics, polymers, and composite materials. The work you do will directly ... Degrees in Mechanical OR Reliability Engineering also are accepted. * Familiarity with electronics ...

Penske Racing South

Composite Engineer

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$85K - $112K/yr

Manage and maintain the engineering composite materials database, including prepregs, cores ... adhesives, and compliance documentation. * Partner with OEMs to review designs, validate ...

Coherent

R&D Materials Engineer

Newark, DE · On-site

Engineering prototyping with advanced composite materials, including design input, equipment programming, equipment operation, powder processing, furnacing, and inspection * Develop and improve ...

II-VI Incorporated

R&D Materials Engineer

Newark, DE · On-site

Engineering prototyping with advanced composite materials, including design input, equipment programming, equipment operation, powder processing, furnacing, and inspection * Develop and improve ...

Coherent Corp.

R&D Materials Engineer

Newark, DE · On-site

Engineering prototyping with advanced composite materials, including design input, equipment programming, equipment operation, powder processing, furnacing, and inspection * Develop and improve ...

Amentum

Senior Composite Engineer (SME1)

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 ...

AO Racing

Composite Technician

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

You collaborate seamlessly with engineers, mechanics, and performance teams to chase reliability ... Maintain accurate records of all composite work performed, including materials used, labor hours ...

AO Racing

Composite Technician

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

You collaborate seamlessly with engineers, mechanics, and performance teams to chase reliability ... Maintain accurate records of all composite work performed, including materials used, labor hours ...

AO Racing

Composite Technician

Saint Charles, IL

You collaborate seamlessly with engineers, mechanics, and performance teams to chase reliability ... Maintain accurate records of all composite work performed, including materials used, labor hours ...

Ag

Industrial Composite Engineer

Kinston, NC

$84K - $111K/yr

Bachelor degree in Engineering * 5 years experience with AIRBUS composite manufacturing, processes ... Composite material knowledge - Study or working experience with Composite materials * ME processes ...

Airbus

Industrial Engineer - Composite

Kinston, NC · On-site

$84K - $111K/yr

Composite material knowledge - Study or working experience with Composite materials * ME processes ... Manufacturing Engineering Airbus provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and ...

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Composite Materials Engineering information

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$65K

$103.6K

$134K

How much do composite materials engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for composite materials 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 the difference between Composite Materials Engineering vs Materials Science Engineering?

AspectComposite Materials EngineeringMaterials Science Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Engineering, specialized courses in compositesBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, broader focus on all materials
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing composite materials, manufacturing settingsResearch labs, manufacturing, development of various materials
Industry UsageAircraft, automotive, sports equipment, aerospaceElectronics, energy, manufacturing, research institutions

Composite Materials Engineering focuses specifically on designing and testing composite materials used in industries like aerospace and automotive. Materials Science Engineering covers a broader range of materials, including metals, polymers, and composites, often in research and development settings. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in specialization and application areas.

What are some common challenges faced by composite materials engineers when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Composite materials engineers often collaborate with professionals from mechanical, aerospace, and manufacturing engineering. One common challenge is ensuring that the unique properties and processing requirements of composites are understood and integrated into the overall design and manufacturing plan. Effective communication and documentation are essential, as misunderstandings can lead to costly redesigns or performance issues. Additionally, balancing the needs of performance, weight, cost, and manufacturability while meeting project deadlines requires strong problem-solving skills and adaptability.

What is composite materials engineering?

Composite materials engineering is a specialized field of engineering focused on designing, analyzing, and manufacturing materials made from two or more constituent materials with different physical or chemical properties. These materials, known as composites, are engineered to produce a material with characteristics superior to the individual components. Common examples include carbon fiber reinforced polymers and fiberglass. Engineers in this field work in industries such as aerospace, automotive, sports equipment, and construction to develop lightweight, strong, and durable materials. Their work involves material selection, testing, and optimization for various applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Composite Materials Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Composite Materials Engineer, you need a strong background in materials science, mechanical engineering, and chemistry, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Proficiency with CAD software, finite element analysis (FEA) tools, and laboratory testing equipment is essential, along with familiarity with industry standards and certifications like ISO or ASTM. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure the effective design, analysis, and implementation of advanced composite materials in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction.
More about Composite Materials Engineering jobs
What states have the most Composite Materials Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Composite Materials Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Composite Materials Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Composite Materials Engineering jobs are:
Composite Materials Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Composite Materials Engineering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,596 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Composites Engineer

Opterus

Loveland, CO • Hybrid

$90K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago

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
Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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