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Composites Manufacturing Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field * 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing engineering role, preferably in composites or ...

Composites Manufacturing Engineer

Hood River, OR · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field * 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing engineering role, preferably in composites or ...

Composites Manufacturing Engineer

Hood River, OR · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field * 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing engineering role, preferably in composites or ...

Composites Manufacturing Engineer

Hood River, OR · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field * 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing engineering role, preferably in composites or ...

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Composites Manufacturing Engineer information

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$47.5K

$85.6K

$120K

How much do composites manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for composites manufacturing engineer in the United States is $85,613.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,000.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a composites manufacturing engineer do?

A Composites Manufacturing Engineer specializes in designing, developing, and optimizing processes to manufacture products made from composite materials, such as carbon fiber or fiberglass. They work to ensure that composite parts meet strict quality and performance standards while improving efficiency and reducing costs. Their responsibilities often include selecting materials, developing tooling and manufacturing methods, troubleshooting production issues, and collaborating with design, quality, and production teams. These engineers play a key role in industries like aerospace, automotive, marine, and sports equipment, where lightweight and high-strength materials are essential.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a composites manufacturing engineer?

To thrive as a Composites Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing processes, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, finite element analysis tools, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications such as Six Sigma is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving, project management, and teamwork skills help you excel in optimizing processes and collaborating across departments. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring high-quality, efficient production of composite materials in industries like aerospace and automotive.

How does a composites manufacturing engineer collaborate with design and production teams during new product development?

Composites Manufacturing Engineers play a critical role in bridging the gap between design and production teams, especially during new product development. They work closely with design engineers to ensure manufacturability of composite parts, providing input on material selection, tooling, and production processes. Additionally, they coordinate with production teams to develop and refine fabrication methods, troubleshoot issues, and implement process improvements. This collaborative environment requires strong communication skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving, as engineers often mediate between creative design concepts and practical manufacturing constraints.
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Cities with the most Composites Manufacturing Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Composites Manufacturing Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Composites Manufacturing Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Composites Manufacturing Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,613 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Composites Manufacturing Engineer

Opterus Research and Development, Inc.

Loveland, CO • On-site

$90 - $128/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 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 Manufacturing 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)
  • 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
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