Advanced Materials and Process Engineer

Advanced Composite Engineer

This position supports advanced defense and intelligence programs focused on developing next-generation technologies and mission-critical systems for national security applications. The engineering team works closely with customers and internal development organizations to support high-impact production, R&D, testing, and manufacturing initiatives involving advanced composite materials and processes.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to cutting-edge engineering efforts supporting aerospace and defense systems while working in a highly collaborative environment focused on innovation, manufacturing excellence, and technical problem-solving.

Location:

Marion, VA (100% On-Site)

Travel:
Infrequent to up to 10%

Clearance Requirement:
Ability to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance (U.S. Citizenship required)

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead engineering tasks and small projects involving advanced composite materials and manufacturing processes
• Support production root cause investigations related to materials and processes, and recommend corrective actions
• Support qualification testing activities, including test plans, execution support, and test reporting
• Contribute to internal R&D initiatives and feasibility studies for new and modified designs
• Develop and maintain process specifications, work instructions, and manufacturing documentation
• Participate in proposal support activities, including technical writing and cost estimation
• Identify technical and program risks and support mitigation planning
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams

Key technical areas include:

• Polymer matrix composite manufacturing
• Hand lay-up and autoclave cure processes
• Adhesive bonding
• Resin Transfer Molding (RTM)
• Composite materials testing and qualification
• Process development and quality/process controls
• Engineering drawings and specification interpretation

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related STEM discipline
• 5+ years of related engineering experience
• OR
• Master's degree with 3+ years of related experience
• Experience with composite manufacturing processes and materials engineering
• Knowledge of epoxy, BMI, polyimide, and cyanate ester resin systems
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense Secret Clearance
• U.S. Citizenship required

Preferred Qualifications:

• Coatings experience
• Electroless plating and electroplating processes
• Composite process implementation and operator training
• Materials testing and qualification methods

C2 Essentials is an Equal Opportunity Employer.