Composites Engineer

Overview

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.

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, 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.

• Develop, document, and optimize composite manufacturing processes (layup, curing, bonding, trimming, and assembly)
• Develop and analyze composite laminates based on structural performance requirements
• Support tooling design and fabrication for composite manufacturing
• 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 structures 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

• Bachelor s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field
• 3+ years of experience in designing composite structures or composite manufacturing
• 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 developing manufacturing documentation and process controls
• Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced, development-driven environment
• Experience with CAD and manufacturing planning tools
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills

• 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

• Base salary range of $96,000 - $138,000, based on experience and qualification
• 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

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.