Composites Application Engineer

About The Role

Review and analyze customer manufacturing requirements for composite and additive manufacturing applications Develop, optimize, and validate manufacturing processes for advanced composite and automated production systems Research and evaluate alternative manufacturing methods and emerging technologies Support Automated Fiber Placement (AFP), Automated Tape Laying (ATL), additive manufacturing, and automated inspection applications Assist in machine qualification activities and production readiness validation Support projects from proposal development through installation, commissioning, and production ramp-up Generate technical documentation, process reports, and customer-facing engineering deliverables Provide technical training to internal personnel and customers on equipment operation, process optimization, and manufacturing best practices Support composite software development initiatives and process integration activities Travel to customer and partner facilities to support implementation, troubleshoot production challenges, and resolve process-related issues under tight timelines Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering and manufacturing teams to improve product performance and operational efficiency Maintain regular and reliable attendance at the Rockford, IL facility Work overtime or off-shift hours as required to support project and customer needs

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Aerospace Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical discipline
• Experience with CAD software such as CATIA, Solid Works, Pro/E, or similar platforms
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Power Point
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally

• Working knowledge of Python or other programming languages
• Experience with NC programming and the ability to read and interpret NC files
• Experience with large-scale additive manufacturing, composite layup processes, 3D printing, AFP, or ATL technologies
• Experience programming and operating CNC machine tools and robotic manufacturing platforms
• Familiarity with industrial robotics and machine vision systems
• Understanding of advanced manufacturing process development and automation technologies
• Experience supporting aerospace, industrial manufacturing, or high-performance production environments preferred