Composites Engineer

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize advanced composite systems for both structural and non-structural applications.
• Partner with design teams to select materials and define layups, fiber architecture, and resin systems.
• Create and maintain clear technical documentation, material specs, and process guidelines.
• Perform mechanical testing, evaluate results, and lead material characterization efforts.
• Work side-by-side with manufacturing teams to implement processes such as autoclave curing, infusion, filament winding, or out-of-autoclave techniques.
• Investigate material or process failures and lead thorough root-cause analyses.
• Collaborate with suppliers to evaluate new materials and ensure they meet quality and performance requirements.
• Support prototype builds and drives smooth transitions from development to production.
• Contribute to ongoing improvements in materials, manufacturing processes, and test methods.

Education and Licensure

• Master’s degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.

Skills, Experience And Qualifications

• Due to federal contract security requirements, candidates must be able to successfully pass a federal background investigation to secure and maintain DOE Q security clearance.
• Due to federal contract security requirements, this position requires U.S. Citizenship.
• Health & Safety training, medical monitoring, and client-driven drug and background testing.
• 2+ years of experience.
• Strong understanding of composite materials—fibers, resins, core materials, and adhesives.
• Experience with composite design fundamentals, failure modes, and industry testing standards.
• Familiarity with common composite fabrication methods and equipment.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and test reports.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Industry experience in aerospace, automotive, defense, renewable energy, or similar fields.
• Hands-on experience with composite fabrication in lab or production environments.
• Experience with FEA tools applied to composite structures.

Preferred Qualifications and Location Details

• Active Q clearance is strongly preferred.
• Understanding of quality systems such as AS9100 or ISO 9001.
• Familiarity with material databases or statistical analysis tools.
• Onsite position in Oak Ridge. One-year base assignment with possibility of extension and/or conversion after.