Process Engineer

Innovative Composite Engineering; White Salmon (WA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Aerospace & Defense (AA&D) seeks a Composite Process Engineer to bridge design and production, advancing composite manufacturing methods and tooling. The role emphasizes problem solving, process optimization, and hands-on improvement in a world-class environment.

You will lead development from concept through production, support NPIs, and drive continuous improvement with cross‑functional teams. This position is full-time and site-based in Washington.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Science, or related field (Engineering Technology degree considered).
• 8+ years of experience in composite manufacturing or process engineering.
• Strong knowledge of composite materials, tooling, fabrication, and DFM.
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability manufacturing environments.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and hands-on engineering skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and manufacturing documentation systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead composite product and process development from concept through full production lifecycle support.
• Develop, evaluate, validate, and improve composite manufacturing methods, tooling, fixtures, and production systems.
• Support new product introduction (NPI) activities including process implementation and production readiness.
• Design, fabricate, and implement tooling, fixtures, and manufacturing equipment solutions.
• Create and maintain process documentation, work instructions, tooling records, and manufacturing procedures.
• Perform engineering analyses to validate product designs, manufacturing methods, and production systems.
• Develop and execute testing protocols; analyze and present results for R&D, process qualification, and product validation.
• Drive continuous improvement through root-cause analysis, waste reduction, and process optimization.
• Coordinate equipment selection, installation, layout, and implementation activities.
• Collaborate with vendors and suppliers to support material quality and process improvements.

Skills

Composite manufacturing processes &amp

Solid modeling

Lean manufacturing & SPC

Control systems/PLCs

Education

BSc/MSc in Mechanical/Manufacturing/Materials

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

Job description

Title: Composite Process Engineer

FTE Status: Full Time – 40 hours

Reports To: NPI Process Manager

FLSA Status: Exempt

About Us

At Applied Aerospace & Defense (AA&D), we combine cutting‑edge technology with craftsmanship and creativity — all set against the stunning backdrop of the Columbia River Gorge. From concept to production, our advanced composite components are built right here and used around the world in aerospace, defense, and beyond. If you’re an engineer who thrives on problem‑solving, process optimization, and hands‑on innovation, this is your chance to join a team that values Precision, Pride, and Performance in everything we do.

Primary Purpose Of Position

As a Process Engineer, you’ll be the bridge between design and production — developing, improving, and supporting composite manufacturing processes that meet the highest standards of quality and efficiency.

You'll Work Collaboratively Across Teams To

• Design, evaluate, and improve manufacturing methods and equipment.
• Develop tooling, fixtures, and test systems for composite production.
• Validate and document new processes and train production teams.
• Lead continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Analyze production data to identify root causes and optimize performance.
• Support new product introductions (NPI) and help refine existing processes.
• Partner with vendors, engineers, and operations to drive innovation from concept to completion.

Essential Functions

• Lead composite product and process development from concept through full production lifecycle support.
• Develop, evaluate, validate, and improve composite manufacturing methods, tooling, fixtures, and production systems.
• Support new product introduction (NPI) activities including process implementation, production readiness, and manufacturing support.
• Design, fabricate, and implement tooling, fixtures, and manufacturing equipment solutions.
• Create and maintain process documentation, work instructions, tooling records, and manufacturing procedures.
• Perform engineering analyses to validate product designs, manufacturing methods, and production systems.
• Develop and execute testing protocols; analyze and present results for R&D, process qualification, and product validation.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives through root‑cause analysis, waste reduction, and process optimization activities.
• Estimate production times, staffing requirements, equipment needs, and related manufacturing costs.
• Coordinate equipment selection, installation, layout, and implementation activities.
• Collaborate with vendors and suppliers to support material quality and process improvements.
• Partner cross‑functionally with engineering, quality, production, sales, and customers to resolve manufacturing and technical issues.
• Support project schedules, budget commitments, and production deliverables.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Science, or related field. (Engineering Technology degree considered)
• 8+ years of experience in composite manufacturing or process engineering.
• Strong knowledge of composite materials, tooling, fabrication, and design for manufacturability (DFM).
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or high‑reliability manufacturing environments.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and hands‑on engineering skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and manufacturing documentation systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

What You Bring

• Technical Skills:
• Composite manufacturing processes & materials science
• Solid modeling (SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar)
• Lean manufacturing concepts & statistical process control
• Control systems, PLCs, or data acquisition experience a plus
• Soft Skills:
• Strong analytical and hands‑on problem‑solving ability
• Effective communicator and team collaborator
• Self‑driven, detail‑oriented, and quality‑focused

Work Environment / Physical Requirements

This role is primarily performed in a manufacturing environment and includes regular standing, walking, bending, reaching, lifting, and hands‑on interaction with equipment and machinery. Occasional lifting up to 75 pounds may be required with or without reasonable accommodation.

Compliance Requirements

Applied Aerospace & Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Due to ITAR requirements, applicants must be able to provide proof of U.S. Person status. We maintain a substance‑free workplace. Pre‑employment, random, post‑accident, and reasonable suspicion testing may apply in accordance with company policy.