Advanced Materials & Process Engineer- Composites

General Dynamics Mission Systems engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ professionals, we partner with industry leaders to expand the bounds of innovation in defense and scientific arenas.

About the role

This position provides an opportunity to further advance the cutting-edge technology that supports some of our nation’s core defense and intelligence services and systems. Employees work closely with esteemed customers to develop solutions that allow them to carry out high-stakes national security missions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering, Technology, or Mathematics field
• 5+ years of job-related experience, or a Master's degree plus 3 years of job-related experience
• Department of Defense Secret security clearance required within a reasonable period of time; U.S. citizenship is required

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of strategic tasks or small projects by applying engineering and organizational knowledge and expertise to achieve technical goals
• Support Production Program root cause investigations relating to materials and processes, and recommend solutions
• Support Development Program qualification testing, including writing test plans, supporting on-site testing, and writing test reports
• Support Internal Research and Development projects
• Plan and execute small projects or task elements within larger projects, organizations, or for groups of projects
• Complete assigned engineering tasks or small projects within budgetary and scheduling guidelines
• Identify technical and organizational risks and ensure they are included in risk mitigation plans
• Participate in the proposal process including preparation of cost estimates and technical writing
• Participate in feasibility studies and testing of new and modified designs
• Travel will be required (infrequent to up to 10%)

Skills

• Experience with polymer matrix composite manufacturing processes including hand lay-up/autoclave cure, adhesive bonding, and resin transfer molding (RTM)
• Knowledge of the polymer chemistry of epoxy, bismaleimide (BMI), polyimide, and cyanate ester resins as they relate to the processing of pre-impregnated fabrics and unidirectional tapes commonly used in fiber-reinforced composite structure and adhesive systems
• Experience with developing and writing process specifications and work instructions for composite fabrication operations
• Experience with composites materials testing and qualification methods, both mechanical and thermal
• Knowledge of chemical surface treatments and processes involved in both electroless plating and electroplating on non-metallic surfaces, photosensitive resist application, and metal etching in an industrial environment
• Experience in implementing new processes, documentation, quality/process controls, and operator training
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications; detail-oriented
• Analytic and problem-solving skills
• Experience with coatings (a plus)
• Identifies opportunities to apply AI for continuous improvement and innovation

Benefits

• Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs, employee resource and social groups
• Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work (9/80 schedule)
• Exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development
• Research-oriented work alongside award-winning teams developing practical solutions for national security

Pay

Target salary range: USD $107,500.00/Yr. - USD $117,500.00/Yr.

Schedule

This position is 100% on-site in Marion, VA, with a 9/80 schedule (every other Friday off).

Location

Marion, VA is nestled in the Virginia Highlands, offering beautiful countryside, state parks, and outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and hunting. The Appalachian Trail runs through town, and nearby attractions include Blacksburg, VA; Charlotte, NC; Knoxville, TN; and Bristol Motor Speedway. Commute times average 10–15 minutes in town, with nearby housing options in Abingdon and Wytheville.