Materials, Process, and Test Engineer

Rock West Composites

$85K — $115K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, materials science, aerospace engineering, or related discipline
  • 2+ years of experience in materials, testing, manufacturing, or product development
  • Master's degree preferred
  • Strong knowledge of composite materials and manufacturing processes
  • Proficiency in technical writing and problem-solving

Responsibilities

  • Develop and qualify composite materials and testing methods
  • Execute mechanical, thermal, and chemical testing programs
  • Coordinate testing with external labs and internal teams
  • Analyze test results and produce technical reports
  • Identify opportunities for material and process improvements
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support program execution
  • Support Quality Assurance activities related to testing and inspection

Benefits

  • 100% Employer-Paid Medical & Dental
  • Annual Bonus Program
  • 401(k) with 5% Match
  • Employee Stock Option Program
  • 9/80 Work Schedule (every other Friday off)
  • Paid Holidays + Generous PTO
  • $2,500 Tuition Reimbursement
Full Job Description
Position Summary:

This role plays a critical part in ensuring our materials, manufacturing processes, and products meet demanding aerospace, defense, and commercial requirements. You will work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and external testing laboratories to develop testing methodologies, generate material data, and improve manufacturing processes.

What You'll Own:
  • Development and qualification of composite materials, processes, and test methods
  • Material and structural testing programs
  • Technical standards, specifications, and test documentation
  • Continuous improvement of manufacturing processes and testing capabilities


Essential Functions:

Materials, Process & Test Engineering
  • Support the characterization, qualification, and implementation of advanced composite materials and manufacturing processes
  • Develop and execute mechanical, thermal, and chemical testing programs for composite materials and structures
  • Coordinate testing activities with external laboratories and internal stakeholders
  • Support the acquisition, installation, and validation of testing and data acquisition equipment
  • Evaluate new materials, manufacturing methods, and technologies to improve product performance and manufacturability

Technical Documentation & Analysis
  • Develop testing procedures, specifications, standards, and work instructions
  • Analyze test results and generate clear, concise technical reports
  • Maintain accurate material property data and testing records
  • Support engineering documentation, configuration control, and customer deliverables

Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement
  • Identify opportunities to improve material performance, process consistency, product quality, and manufacturing efficiency
  • Support the development of material processing standards, handling procedures, and best practices
  • Assist in resolving technical issues related to materials, manufacturing processes, and product performance
  • Support standardization efforts across engineering and manufacturing operations

Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Partner with Engineering, Manufacturing, Program Management, and Quality teams to support program execution
  • Assist customers, suppliers, and testing laboratories with technical requirements and problem resolution
  • Support Quality Assurance activities related to inspection, testing, verification, and acceptance criteria


What You Bring:

Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Materials Science Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline
  • 2+ years of engineering experience in materials, testing, manufacturing, or product development
  • Master's degree preferred

Technical Skills
  • Knowledge of composite materials and manufacturing processes
  • Understanding of mechanical testing, material characterization, and data analysis
  • Familiarity with thermal, chemical, and cure analysis methods
  • Working knowledge of Classical Lamination Theory
  • Strong technical writing and problem-solving skills

Software & Tools
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
  • Experience with engineering test equipment and data acquisition systems preferred
  • Microsoft Project experience is a plus

Additional Requirements
  • Must be a U.S. Person (due to ITAR requirements)
  • Ability to pass background check and drug screening


Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary Range: $85,000 - $115,000 (based on experience and skillset)
  • 100% Employer-Paid Medical & Dental
  • Annual Bonus Program
  • 401(k) with 5% Match
  • Employee Stock Option Program
  • 9/80 Work Schedule (every other Friday off)
  • Paid Holidays + Generous PTO
  • $2,500 Tuition Reimbursement


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