Senior Composite Materials Engineer - Kimberley

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 950,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 client in Kimberley, Northern Cape seeks a Senior Composite Materials Engineer to drive R&D and implementation of advanced composites for aerospace structures. You will select materials, develop processes, and validate performance through testing and analysis.

The role requires 7+ years in composites, expertise in polymer matrix systems (thermosets & thermoplastics), and hands-on manufacturing experience including autoclave curing, RTM, VARTM, and AFP/ATL.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field with composites specialization.
• At least 7 years experience in composite materials, preferably aerospace.
• Extensive knowledge of polymer matrix composites (thermosets & thermoplastics).
• Experience with composite manufacturing: autoclave curing, RTM, VARTM, AFP/ATL.
• Proficiency in material characterization techniques and data analysis.
• Familiarity with NDT methods for composites.
• Strong understanding of mechanics, failure theories, and problem solving.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and optimization of composite material systems for aerospace applications.
• Characterize materials and structures using mechanical testing, NDT, and microscopy.
• Develop and refine manufacturing processes for layup, curing, and bonding.
• Analyze performance data and failure mechanisms to ensure integrity and service life.
• Collaborate with design engineers to select materials and methods for new components.
• Troubleshoot material and process issues during development and production.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace standards and specifications.
• Prepare technical reports, specs, and design documentation.
• Stay abreast of advances in composites, manufacturing technologies, and aerospace applications.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians in composites.

Skills

Polymer matrix composites

Mechanical testing

NDT methods

Composite design & analysis

Failure theories

Education

Master's or PhD in Materials/Mechanical/Chemical Eng (composites)

Tools

Autoclave curing

RTM

VARTM

AFP/ATL

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced materials and aerospace manufacturing, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Composite Materials Engineer to join their dedicated team in **Kimberley, Northern Cape**. This role is pivotal in the research, development, and application of advanced composite materials for aerospace structures and components. You will be responsible for material selection, process development, characterization, and ensuring the structural integrity and performance of composite parts. This position requires a deep understanding of polymer matrix composites, manufacturing processes, and failure mechanisms. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills and a commitment to innovation within the **Kimberley** industrial landscape. Our client is committed to pushing the boundaries of material science, offering a challenging and rewarding career in **South Africa**'s growing aerospace sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimization of composite material systems (e.g., carbon fiber, fiberglass, aramid) for aerospace applications.
• Characterize composite materials and structures through mechanical testing (tensile, compression, shear, fatigue), non-destructive testing (NDT), and microscopy.
• Develop and refine manufacturing processes for composite parts, including layup, curing, and bonding, ensuring quality and efficiency.
• Analyze material performance data and failure mechanisms to ensure structural integrity and predict service life.
• Collaborate with design engineers to select appropriate composite materials and manufacturing methods for new components.
• Troubleshoot material and process-related issues encountered during development and production.
• Ensure all composite material activities comply with aerospace industry standards and specifications.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and design documentation related to composite materials.
• Stay abreast of new developments in composite materials science, manufacturing technologies, and aerospace applications.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians in the field of composite materials.

Requirements

• A Master's or Ph.D. degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in composites.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in the field of composite materials, preferably within the aerospace industry.
• Extensive knowledge of polymer matrix composites, including thermosets and thermoplastics.
• Experience with composite manufacturing processes such as autoclave curing, RTM, VARTM, and AFP/ATL.
• Proficiency in material characterization techniques and data analysis.
• Familiarity with NDT methods for composites.
• Strong understanding of composite mechanics and failure theories.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and research skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for team collaboration.
• Must be legally eligible to work in South Africa and reside in or be willing to relocate to the Kimberley area.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and significant opportunities for professional development and continuing education. This role is based in **Kimberley, Northern Cape**, providing a stable and progressive career path within a company at the forefront of material innovation. Contribute to cutting-edge aerospace projects while enjoying a rewarding career in a unique South African setting.