Through innovative engineering and rapid prototyping excellence, Spirit Defense provides the ... Bonding and composites experience * Aerospace and/or Military background * Associate or Bachelor ...
Through innovative engineering and rapid prototyping excellence, Spirit Defense provides the ... Bonding and composites experience * Aerospace and/or Military background * Associate or Bachelor ...
Inspector - Fabrication/Assembly
Wichita, KS · On-site
$41/hr
Performs assembly mechanic duties for systems, payload structures, fuselage, underwing composites ... We deliver expert workforce solutions across engineering, IT, production, maintenance, and support ...
Quick apply
Inspector - Fabrication/Assembly
Wichita, KS · On-site
$41/hr
Performs assembly mechanic duties for systems, payload structures, fuselage, underwing composites ... We deliver expert workforce solutions across engineering, IT, production, maintenance, and support ...
Through innovative engineering and rapid prototyping excellence, Spirit Defense provides the ... Bonding and composites experience * Aerospace and/or Military background * Associate or Bachelor ...
Through innovative engineering and rapid prototyping excellence, Spirit Defense provides the ... Bonding and composites experience * Aerospace and/or Military background * Associate or Bachelor ...
Mechanical Design Engineer
Olathe, KS · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Bachelor"s degree in engineering required Years" Experience: 3-5+ years of relevant experience, previous experience in composites or elastomers industries preferred Skills: * Excellent ability to ...
New
Mechanical Design Engineer
Olathe, KS · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Bachelor"s degree in engineering required Years" Experience: 3-5+ years of relevant experience, previous experience in composites or elastomers industries preferred Skills: * Excellent ability to ...
New
Mechanical Design Engineer
Olathe, KS · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Bachelor"s degree in engineering required Years" Experience: 3-5+ years of relevant experience, previous experience in composites or elastomers industries preferred Skills: * Excellent ability to ...
New
Quick apply
Mechanical Design Engineer
Olathe, KS · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Bachelor"s degree in engineering required Years" Experience: 3-5+ years of relevant experience, previous experience in composites or elastomers industries preferred Skills: * Excellent ability to ...
New
Mechanical Design Engineer
Olathe, KS · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Bachelor"s degree in engineering required Years" Experience: 3-5+ years of relevant experience, previous experience in composites or elastomers industries preferred Skills: * Excellent ability to ...
New
Mechanical Design Engineer
Olathe, KS · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Bachelor"s degree in engineering required Years" Experience: 3-5+ years of relevant experience, previous experience in composites or elastomers industries preferred Skills: * Excellent ability to ...
New
Sourcing Specialist
Wichita, KS · On-site
... Engineering, or related field preferred. * 3+ years of experience in sourcing, procurement, supply chain, or materials management, ideally in aerospace or advanced composites. * Strong understanding ...
Sourcing Specialist
Wichita, KS · On-site
... Engineering, or related field preferred. * 3+ years of experience in sourcing, procurement, supply chain, or materials management, ideally in aerospace or advanced composites. * Strong understanding ...
Design Engineer
$25 - $45/hr
Design Engineer Join our team as a Design Engineer, where you will take ownership of design and ... Experience in aerospace, composites, ERP systems, and manufacturing. * Excellent print reading and ...
Quick apply
Design Engineer
$25 - $45/hr
Design Engineer Join our team as a Design Engineer, where you will take ownership of design and ... Experience in aerospace, composites, ERP systems, and manufacturing. * Excellent print reading and ...
Design Engineer
$25 - $45/hr
Design Engineer Join our team as a Design Engineer, where you will take ownership of design and ... Experience in aerospace, composites, ERP systems, and manufacturing. * Excellent print reading and ...
Quick apply
Design Engineer
$25 - $45/hr
Design Engineer Join our team as a Design Engineer, where you will take ownership of design and ... Experience in aerospace, composites, ERP systems, and manufacturing. * Excellent print reading and ...
Aerospace Layup Technician
Wichita, KS · On-site
The technician will work with a team of engineers and technicians to ensure that all parts are ... EEO NOTICE: Leading Technology Composites is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified ...
Aerospace Layup Technician
Wichita, KS · On-site
The technician will work with a team of engineers and technicians to ensure that all parts are ... EEO NOTICE: Leading Technology Composites is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified ...
Static Stress Engineer (Contract)
Wichita, KS · On-site +1
$52.50 - $72/hr
Our Engineers have the privilege of working on complex, highly engineered machines and are involved ... Exposure to airframe design, stress analysis, composites, MRB, FAR/JAR/CS/Part 21, Certification ...
Static Stress Engineer (Contract)
Wichita, KS · On-site +1
$52.50 - $72/hr
Our Engineers have the privilege of working on complex, highly engineered machines and are involved ... Exposure to airframe design, stress analysis, composites, MRB, FAR/JAR/CS/Part 21, Certification ...
Static Stress Engineer (Contract)
Wichita, KS · On-site
$52.50 - $72/hr
Our Engineers have the privilege of working on complex, highly engineered machines and are involved ... Exposure to airframe design, stress analysis, composites, MRB, FAR/JAR/CS/Part 21, Certification ...
Static Stress Engineer (Contract)
Wichita, KS · On-site
$52.50 - $72/hr
Our Engineers have the privilege of working on complex, highly engineered machines and are involved ... Exposure to airframe design, stress analysis, composites, MRB, FAR/JAR/CS/Part 21, Certification ...
Associate Material Review Engineer
Wichita, KS · On-site
$76K - $116K/yr
... composites, and/or large-scale assemblies and systems integration. * MRB engineers are self ... motivated and possess the ability to act decisively, communicate effectively, and demonstrate ...
Associate Material Review Engineer
Wichita, KS · On-site
$76K - $116K/yr
... composites, and/or large-scale assemblies and systems integration. * MRB engineers are self ... motivated and possess the ability to act decisively, communicate effectively, and demonstrate ...
Work across internal functions such as engineering, finance, and program management to ensure ... Support procurement efforts in advanced composites, advanced machining, and structures, leveraging ...
Work across internal functions such as engineering, finance, and program management to ensure ... Support procurement efforts in advanced composites, advanced machining, and structures, leveraging ...
Associate Material Review Engineer
$76K - $116K/yr
... composites, and/or large-scale assemblies and systems integration. * MRB engineers are self ... motivated and possess the ability to act decisively, communicate effectively, and demonstrate ...
Associate Material Review Engineer
$76K - $116K/yr
... composites, and/or large-scale assemblies and systems integration. * MRB engineers are self ... motivated and possess the ability to act decisively, communicate effectively, and demonstrate ...
Associate Material Review Engineer
Wichita, KS · On-site
$76K - $116K/yr
... composites, and/or large-scale assemblies and systems integration. * MRB engineers are self ... motivated and possess the ability to act decisively, communicate effectively, and demonstrate ...
Associate Material Review Engineer
Wichita, KS · On-site
$76K - $116K/yr
... composites, and/or large-scale assemblies and systems integration. * MRB engineers are self ... motivated and possess the ability to act decisively, communicate effectively, and demonstrate ...
Work across internal functions such as engineering, finance, and program management to ensure ... Support procurement efforts in advanced composites, advanced machining, and structures, leveraging ...
Work across internal functions such as engineering, finance, and program management to ensure ... Support procurement efforts in advanced composites, advanced machining, and structures, leveraging ...
Work across internal functions such as engineering, finance, and program management to ensure ... Support procurement efforts in advanced composites, advanced machining, and structures, leveraging ...
Quick apply
Work across internal functions such as engineering, finance, and program management to ensure ... Support procurement efforts in advanced composites, advanced machining, and structures, leveraging ...
Material Review Engineer (Mid-level or Senior)
$89K - $137K/yr
... composites, and/or large-scale assemblies and systems integration. * MRB engineers are self ... motivated and possess the ability to act decisively, communicate effectively, and demonstrate ...
Material Review Engineer (Mid-level or Senior)
$89K - $137K/yr
... composites, and/or large-scale assemblies and systems integration. * MRB engineers are self ... motivated and possess the ability to act decisively, communicate effectively, and demonstrate ...
Material Review Engineer (Mid-level or Senior)
$115K - $177K/yr
... composites, and/or large-scale assemblies and systems integration. * MRB engineers are self ... motivated and possess the ability to act decisively, communicate effectively, and demonstrate ...
Material Review Engineer (Mid-level or Senior)
$115K - $177K/yr
... composites, and/or large-scale assemblies and systems integration. * MRB engineers are self ... motivated and possess the ability to act decisively, communicate effectively, and demonstrate ...
Composites Engineer information
See Kansas salary details
$58K - $63.6K
7% of jobs
$63.6K - $69.2K
1% of jobs
$69.2K - $74.8K
7% of jobs
$79.6K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$74.8K - $80.3K
11% of jobs
$80.3K - $85.9K
18% of jobs
The median wage is $87.6K / yr.
$85.9K - $91.5K
20% of jobs
$91.5K - $97.1K
0% of jobs
$97.1K - $102.7K
9% of jobs
$103.7K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$102.7K - $108.3K
7% of jobs
$108.3K - $113.9K
2% of jobs
$113.9K - $119.5K
17% of jobs
$58K
$92.4K
$119.5K
How much do composites engineer jobs pay per year?
What is the difference between Composites Engineer vs Materials Engineer?
| Aspect | Composites Engineer | Materials Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Bachelor's in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Materials Engineering; certifications in composite materials | Bachelor's in Materials Science or Engineering; certifications in materials testing |
| Work Environment | Research labs, manufacturing plants, aerospace and automotive industries | Research labs, manufacturing, product development across various industries |
| Industry Usage | Specialized in composite materials like carbon fiber and fiberglass | Broader focus on metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites |
Composites Engineers focus specifically on designing and testing composite materials used in aerospace, automotive, and sports equipment. Materials Engineers have a broader scope, working with various materials to develop and improve products across multiple industries. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but their focus areas and applications differ.
What are some common challenges faced by a composites engineer when transitioning from design to manufacturing?
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a composites engineer, and why are they important?
What is a composites engineer?

$71K - $109K/yr
Full-time
Medical, Life, Retirement
Re-posted 19 days ago
Spirit AeroSystems rating
8.1
Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
40th of 72 rated aerospace companies
Job description
This role is at Spirit AeroSystems, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, at Spirit’s Defense Business Unit (“Spirit Defense”). Spirit Defense is an independent supplier to the defense and space marketplace. Through innovative engineering and rapid prototyping excellence, Spirit Defense provides the capabilities, technologies and support customers need to succeed in their missions.
Responsibilities
***Positions available for the 1st or 2nd Shift***
Position Responsibilities:
- Leads, mentors, and develops composite and bonding technicians, ensuring adherence to company standards, quality requirements, and continuous skills development
- Oversees compliance with aerospace manufacturing specifications, FAA regulations, customer requirements, and internal quality management systems
- Reviews and approves manufacturing processes, work instructions, tooling, and production plans to ensure efficient, repeatable, and high-quality composite fabrication and bonding operations
- Investigates manufacturing defects, nonconformances, and root causes, implementing corrective and preventive actions to improve product quality and reduce rework
- Drives continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, cost reduction, production efficiency, process optimization, and on-time delivery through Lean manufacturing and best practices
- Interfaces with engineering, management, suppliers, and customers to meet product requirements and customer acceptance
- Fabricates detail parts and subassemblies from composite and bonded materials using conventional, numerical control, and special composite/bonding fabrication equipment
- Performs related functions to provide complete composite/bonding fabrication details and subassemblies
This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at the Wichita, KS location
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):
- 5+ years of manufacturing or related experience
- 2+ years of related experience in a leadership and/or management role
- Ability to obtain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance and Special Program Access (for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship)
Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
- Active U.S. Secret Security Clearance
- 3+ years of related experience in a leadership and/or management role
- Bonding and composites experience
- Aerospace and/or Military background
- Associate or Bachelor’s Degree
- Experience working with multiple cross functional groups (Quality, Assembly, Procurement, Supply Chain, Machining, etc.)
- Experience developing and managing a statement of work on time and within budget
- Experience using Microsoft Office Suite
- Experience using SAP
- Experience working in a union environment with collective bargaining agreements
- Experience monitoring cost
- Experience managing projects
- Experience with strategic planning
- Experience working with New Product Introduction (NPI)
Drug Free Workplace:
We are a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Pay & Benefits:
We strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
We also provide eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary Pay Range: $71,150- $109,100
Kansas Tax Credit: Join Spirit AeroSystems’ Kansas team and you may be eligible for a $5,000 state of Kansas Aviation tax credit for up to five years. Click here for more information on the tax credit.
Security Clearance:
This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.
Visa Sponsorship:
Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status. #LI
Qualifications:Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):
- 5+ years of manufacturing or related experience
- 2+ years of related experience in a leadership and/or management role
- Ability to obtain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance and Special Program Access (for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship)
Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
- Active U.S. Secret Security Clearance
- 3+ years of related experience in a leadership and/or management role
- Bonding and composites experience
- Aerospace and/or Military background
- Associate or Bachelor’s Degree
- Experience working with multiple cross functional groups (Quality, Assembly, Procurement, Supply Chain, Machining, etc.)
- Experience developing and managing a statement of work on time and within budget
- Experience using Microsoft Office Suite
- Experience using SAP
- Experience working in a union environment with collective bargaining agreements
- Experience monitoring cost
- Experience managing projects
- Experience with strategic planning
- Experience working with New Product Introduction (NPI)
Drug Free Workplace:
We are a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Pay & Benefits:
We strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
We also provide eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary Pay Range: $71,150- $109,100
Kansas Tax Credit: Join Spirit AeroSystems’ Kansas team and you may be eligible for a $5,000 state of Kansas Aviation tax credit for up to five years. Click here for more information on the tax credit.
Security Clearance:
This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.
Visa Sponsorship:
Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status. #LI
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIMEWhat Spirit AeroSystems employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Spirit Aerosystems
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Machinery manufacturing and manufacturing
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Wichita, KS, US
Year founded
2005