Polymer Science Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

This role focuses on leading the full lifecycle of repair projects for complex ground test equipment used in major engine programs. This Repair Engineer evaluates damage to composite and bonded structures, develops robust repair processes, creates clear work instructions, and oversees execution both at the home facility and at customer sites domestically and internationally.

The engineer collaborates closely with customers and internal production teams to scope repairs, support quoting and scheduling, standardize repair processes, and drive continuous improvement and cost-of-quality initiatives while mentoring junior staff and making data-driven technical decisions in a production environment.

• Lead the full lifecycle of ground test equipment repair projects from initial damage assessment through repair completion and documentation.
• Evaluate damage to composite and bonded structures, determine appropriate inspection methods, and identify the inspections required to fully understand the condition of the equipment.
• Review design drawings and prints to develop technically sound repair concepts that account for differences between original manufacturing processes and field repair constraints.
• Develop detailed repair processes and work instructions, including material selections, process steps, and quality checkpoints, tailored to the specific equipment and field conditions.
• Adapt repair strategies when original manufacturing methods or equipment, such as autoclaves, are not available at the customer site by selecting alternative materials and processes that meet performance and safety requirements.
• Travel with service personnel to customer locations to inspect actual damage conditions, compare them to customer descriptions, and adjust the repair plan as needed.
• Engage directly with customers onsite to discuss damage findings, clarify discrepancies in reported versus actual damage, and agree on appropriate repair approaches or the need to return equipment to the shop.
• Determine when damage exceeds field repair capability and recommend returning equipment to the home facility for more extensive repair or refurbishment.
• Standardize repair processes and procedures across similar equipment and damage types to improve consistency, quality, and efficiency.
• Address nonconforming materials and components by analyzing root causes, proposing corrective actions, and implementing approved solutions in coordination with production and quality teams.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and cost-of-quality efforts by using data-driven engineering judgment to refine repair methods, reduce rework, and enhance reliability.
• Collaborate closely with production teams to ensure repair plans are practical, manufacturable, and aligned with shop capabilities and schedules.
• Support quoting and scheduling activities by helping define repair scope, estimating effort and materials, and aligning repair plans with customer timelines.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians by sharing expertise in composite manufacturing, bonded structures, and repair best practices.
• Apply knowledge of composite and bonded structures in gas turbine and similar applications to ensure repairs meet functional, structural, and safety requirements.
• Use engineering judgment to evaluate when localized areas under lower load may accept reduced strength solutions while maintaining overall system integrity.
• Ensure all repairs and processes adhere to applicable engineering standards, specifications, and quality requirements.
• Document repair activities, technical decisions, and lessons learned to build a knowledge base that supports future repairs and continuous improvement.

• A Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) University Degree
• 10 years experience with composite manufacturing processes
• Fiber-reinforced polymer composites, specifically: fiberglass, aramid, and/or carbon prepreg and wet layup (especially epoxy resin systems
• Comprehensive experience in advanced Composite and Bonded Structures (ie. Organic/Polymer Matrix Composites, Fiber Reinforcement, Manufacturing methods, Adhesives, Surface Preparation, etc.)
• Knowledge of Composites and Bonded Structures applications for gas turbines and/or other similar applications.
• Ability to travel up to 50% of the time.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with mechanical design (machining, joints, fasteners, welding) in relevant industry positions (aerospace, defense, automotive or similar)
• Experience with designing tooling to support repairs / production processes such as locating fixtures or grinding depth aids.
• Familiarity with Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) techniques, such as ultrasonic testing, eddy current, FPI, camera optics, X-ray and others used in aerospace.
• Experience with GD&T to include determining tolerance requirements.

The role operates within a large, global aerospace organization with multiple facilities, including several plants in the Lansing area and an additional facility in Holt.

The engineer works primarily in a production and repair environment focused on ground test equipment for major engine programs, frequently collaborating with shop personnel, service teams, and customers.

The position involves both on-site work at the home facilities and travel to customer locations, including international destinations, to oversee and support repairs in the field.

Typical hours allow a start between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m., with nine-hour workdays Monday through Friday for a 45-hour workweek.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lansing, MI.

The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $75.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Lansing,MI.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 17, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.