R&D Pilot Plant Engineer — Advanced Aerospace Materials

Hexcel Corporation; Decatur (AL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Hexcel Corporation in Decatur, Alabama seeks an R&D Pilot Plant Engineer to own the reliability, modernization, and technical advancement of our pilot facilities, the proving ground where carbon fiber technologies move from concept to reality.

You will lead capital upgrades, improve equipment reliability, troubleshoot complex mechanical and process challenges, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to accelerate development of PAN precursor fiber processes for next‑gen aerospace programs.

Qualifications

• BS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering or related field.
• At least 5 years of experience with industrial processes and equipment.
• Experience supporting capital projects.
• Experience guiding upgrades, troubleshooting, maintenance, and calibration of machinery.
• Understanding safety procedures for running industrial-scale equipment in PSM areas.
• Experience leading or coaching a team is desirable.
• Experience in R&D is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead capital improvements to R&D facilities from concept to completion and direct pilot plant activities.
• Apply analytical thinking and data-driven decisions to identify opportunities and deliver projects.
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical issues.
• Identify and execute pilot line improvements including process improvements and non-capital projects.
• Ensure trials, equipment, and procedures are well documented and accessible.
• Lead R&D research projects including trial coverage in pilot facilities and plant-scale.
• Support process development, process optimization, and product application development for new PAN precursor fibers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to share learnings from operations and R&D.
• Ensure all trial work complies with safety requirements and may require lifting up to 25 lbs, bending, etc.
• Maintain pilot facilities and readiness for trials.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Troubleshooting

Project leadership

Data-driven decision making

Education

BS in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Polymer Engineering

Job description

Hexcel Corporation in Decatur, Alabama seeks an R&D Pilot Plant Engineer to own the reliability, modernization, and technical advancement of our pilot facilities, the proving ground where carbon fiber technologies move from concept to reality.

You will lead capital upgrades, improve equipment reliability, troubleshoot complex mechanical and process challenges, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to accelerate development of PAN precursor fiber processes for next‑gen aerospace programs.