Ablative & C/C Composite Test Engineer

Cambium; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/dental/vision benefits

401(k) plan with matching

OSHA PPE training / safety program

Job summary

Cambium is seeking a Test Engineer to join our composite materials team with a focus on ablative materials and carbon-carbon (C/C) composites. You will machine and test high-temperature composites, support PIP densification and graphitization campaigns, and design parts for rapid prototypes.

This hands-on role involves the full process from resin cure to carbonization and post-test analysis within a safety-conscious team.

Qualifications

• BS/MS in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering.
• 1-5+ years of experience in qualification and acceptance testing of composite materials; ablative/high-temperature materials preferred.
• Familiarity with composite fabrication methods and strong attention to detail.
• Experience creating written instructions for shop floor execution and collaborating with technicians.
• Willingness to work hands-on in a team environment.
• U.S. citizenship due to job requirements.

Responsibilities

• Create test plans, SOPs, and specifications to fabricate and test composites.
• Maintain production plans and schedules for projects.
• Characterize mechanical and thermal properties of high-temperature materials.
• Operate high-temperature processing equipment up to ~2200°C for carbon-carbon materials.
• Fabricate prototype parts from concept to manufacturing.
• Report density, mass changes, and progress through cycles; prepare specimens for analysis.
• Support TPS materials screening and handle high-temperature furnace operations safely.
• Follow safety protocols and contribute to a safety-oriented culture.

Skills

Team collaboration

Strong communication

Hands-on mindset

Education

BS/MS in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering

Tools

Ovens

Autoclaves

Press molding

CNC operation

CAD software

Job description

Cambium is seeking a Test Engineer to join our composite materials team with a focus on ablative materials and carbon-carbon (C/C) composites. You will machine and test high-temperature composites, support PIP densification and graphitization campaigns, and design parts for rapid prototypes.

This hands-on role involves the full process from resin cure to carbonization and post-test analysis within a safety-conscious team.