Materials Process Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Senior Materials, Process, & Test Engineer

About Electra

At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matter at this stage - and this role is no exception.

The Role

Electra.aero, a next-gen aerospace technology company, seeks a dynamic and driven Senior Materials, Process, & Test Engineer. This role will lead the development, selection, testing, and certification of advanced materials and processes for Electra's 9-passenger hybrid-electric eSTOL (electric short takeoff and landing) aircraft. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aerospace materials and processes, structural and environmental testing, and certification pathways. This role requires a hands-on engineer who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and is excited to shape the materials and processes that enable next-generation aviation.

What You'll Do

• Developing and qualifying new materials, processes, and joining technologies for composite and metallic airframe structures.
• Leading material and process specifications, including supplier coordination and approval.
• Designing and executing test campaigns (coupon-level through full-scale) to validate performance, safety, and compliance.
• Applying knowledge of FAA Part 23 requirements, ASTM standards, and industry best practices for materials and process qualification.
• Driving structural and material trade studies to balance weight, manufacturability, durability, and cost.
• Supporting failure investigations, root-cause analysis, and corrective actions related to material performance.
• Interfacing with suppliers and manufacturing teams to ensure successful process implementation and scale-up.
• Preparing and presenting at internal and external design/test reviews to demonstrate compliance and readiness.
• Communicating technical information effectively across engineering teams, leadership, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering (or related STEM discipline).
• Minimum 5+ years of experience in aerospace materials and processes, including composite and metallic structures.
• Expertise in aerospace material systems (metallic alloys, composites, adhesives, coatings, etc.).
• Strong understanding of material processing methods (lamination, curing, heat treatment, bonding, welding, additive manufacturing, etc.).
• Experience in design, planning, and execution of structural and environmental test programs.
• Knowledge of certification pathways for materials and processes under FAA Part 23 or Part 25.
• High competence with engineering fundamentals and ability to translate test data into actionable design/process insights.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Strong work ethic and ability to independently lead projects from concept through validation.

Bonus Points

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.

Compensation:

$130,000.00 – $160,000.00 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and equity
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
• Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
• Paid winter break
• 401(k) with immediate vesting
• Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
• Free on-site parking

Compensation and Benefits

In addition to offering an exciting work environment and the opportunity to be part of the team making Ultra Short flight a reality, at Electra, we offer an unparalleled total rewards package. Electra offers employees a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD, and life insurance, generous PTO and sick leave, company holidays, paid winter break, and a 401(k) plan with immediate vesting. Life at Electra includes a variety of perks, such as free catered lunches, amazing coffee, snacks, drinks, fruit, free parking, and opportunities for much more.

Working Conditions

Work is typically performed in a warehouse/aviation and office environment, which requires proper safety precautions. Work may require some physical effort in handling light materials, boxes, power tools, prototypes, and different materials or equipment. Due to the nature of our business and projects, some fieldwork may be required, working in both indoor and outdoor conditions. You may need to lift up to 50 lbs.

Background & Drug Screening

Successful completion of a background check and/or drug screening prior to starting work may be required for this position.

Commitment

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those from marginalized or underrepresented groups in the tech industry and aerospace, to apply for our job openings. We firmly believe that a diverse range of perspectives can profoundly influence both our product and our company culture.

Electra is committed to a work environment that is inclusive to all and free of discrimination. It is our policy to be an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic predisposition or carrier status, veteran status, citizenship status, or any other factors prohibited by law. Electra will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals.

Electra is an E-Verify employer.