Lead Aerospace Composite Materials Engineer

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Mahikeng, North West, South Africa, is seeking a Lead Aerospace Composite Materials Engineer to guide a team in developing, testing, and applying advanced composites for aircraft structures. The role blends on-site lab leadership with remote analysis and design tasks.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or Master’s in a relevant field, 8+ years in aerospace composites, expertise in characterization, autoclave/RTM/AFP processes, and strong leadership.

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Materials Science, Aerospace or Chemical Eng with composites focus.
• 8+ years in aerospace composite materials development and manufacturing.
• Expertise in characterization, testing, and analysis (mechanical testing, NDT).
• Strong knowledge of composite manufacturing: autoclave, RTM, AFP.
• Experience with design principles and structural analysis.
• Familiarity with aerospace certification requirements for composites.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D, development, and characterization of advanced composites for aerospace.
• Oversee design, fabrication, and testing of composite structures.
• Develop and optimize composite manufacturing processes (lay-up, curing, bonding).
• Conduct failure analysis, performance evaluation, and qualification testing.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace standards and regulatory requirements.
• Mentor a team of composite materials engineers and guide projects.
• Collaborate with design engineers to integrate composites into aircraft structures.
• Stay updated on advancements in composites tech and industry trends.
• Manage timelines, resources, and budgets for materials R&D initiatives.
• Contribute to IP development and technical publications.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Project management

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Master's or PhD in Materials Science / Aerospace / Chemical Eng

Tools

Autoclave

RTM

AFP

NDT

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering aerospace manufacturer based in Mahikeng, North West, ZA , is seeking an innovative Lead Aerospace Composite Materials Engineer. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing the development, testing, and application of advanced composite materials in aircraft structures. You will guide a team of engineers, collaborate with design and manufacturing departments, and ensure the highest standards of quality and performance for composite components. The position requires deep expertise in composite materials science, manufacturing processes, and structural integrity. This role is offered under a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for crucial on-site laboratory work and team collaboration in Mahikeng , complemented by remote analysis and design tasks. Join us in pushing the boundaries of lightweight and high-performance materials in aerospace.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research, development, and characterization of advanced composite materials (e.g., carbon fiber, aramid fibers, polymer resins) for aerospace applications.
• Oversee the design, fabrication, and testing of composite structures and components.
• Develop and optimize composite manufacturing processes, including lay-up, curing, and bonding techniques.
• Conduct failure analysis, performance evaluation, and qualification testing of composite materials and structures.
• Ensure composite designs and manufacturing processes comply with all relevant aerospace industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to a team of composite materials engineers.
• Collaborate with design engineers to integrate composite solutions into aircraft structures.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in composite materials technology, manufacturing methods, and industry trends.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets for composite materials research and development initiatives.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property and technical publications.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Materials Science, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in composites.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in aerospace composite materials development and manufacturing.
• Proven expertise in composite materials characterization, testing, and analysis (e.g., mechanical testing, NDT).
• Strong understanding of composite manufacturing processes (e.g., autoclave, RTM, AFP).
• Experience with composite design principles and structural analysis.
• Familiarity with aerospace certification requirements for composite materials and structures.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and project management skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.Must be legally eligible to work in South Africa and committed to a hybrid work schedule based in Mahikeng, North West .

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including performance bonuses and potential for equity participation.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits are provided.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, advanced training, and participation in industry-leading research are available.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Access to state-of-the‑art composite materials testing and fabrication facilities.
• A dynamic and innovative work environment fostering career growth and cutting‑edge technological development.
• Play a key role in shaping the future of aerospace materials.