Senior Composite Process Engineer - Lean & NPI

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

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.