AFP Manufacturing Engineer II: Aerospace Composite Optimization

SST Direct; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

SST Direct in Austin, TX is seeking an Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) Manufacturing Engineer II to develop, program, and optimize AFP processes on Ingersoll AFP systems for aerospace parts. You will aim to improve part quality, reduce cycle times and material waste, troubleshoot production issues, and ensure components meet engineering and manufacturing requirements.

This hands-on role requires collaboration with design, NC programming, operations, quality, maintenance, and facilities to

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in carbon fiber composite aerospace manufacturing.
• Hands-on AFP programming and manufacturing experience.
• Proficiency with CAD and AFP programming tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage AFP ply programs using Ingersoll Gen2, Vericut Composite Programming (VCP), and Vericut Composite Simulation (VCS).
• Translate engineering models, ply books, and lamination schedules into accurate AFP toolpaths with correct fiber orientation and boundaries.
• Support AFP machine setup, calibration, laser alignment, first-article production and repeatable operations.
• Validate AFP programs through simulation and dry runs and collaborate with machine operators during production startup.
• Analyze and optimize machine paths and parameters to reduce gaps, overlaps, tow steering errors, material waste and cycle times.
• Provide design-for-manufacturability (DFM) feedback to design engineering teams to improve manufacturability.
• Troubleshoot AFP equipment and process issues with maintenance and Ingersoll support.
• Participate in tooling design reviews to verify compatibility with AFP equipment and laser projection systems.
• Identify, implement, and document process improvements, automation enhancements and material usage reductions.
• Develop and maintain standard work instructions and AFP best practices.

Job description

SST Direct in Austin, TX is seeking an Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) Manufacturing Engineer II to develop, program, and optimize AFP processes on Ingersoll AFP systems for aerospace parts. You will aim to improve part quality, reduce cycle times and material waste, troubleshoot production issues, and ensure components meet engineering and manufacturing requirements.

This hands-on role requires collaboration with design, NC programming, operations, quality, maintenance, and facilities to