Composite Manufacturing Engineer

Senior plc•Burbank, CA

89d•Onsite

About The Position

Senior Aerospace SSP is seeking an experienced and driven Composite Manufacturing Engineer (CME) to lead fabrication and assembly initiatives within our Composite Cell. This role is responsible for the design, implementation, and optimization of complex composite manufacturing processes. You will serve as a technical subject matter expert, collaborating with cross-functional teams in production, tooling, 3D printing, and quality to deliver flight-ready aerospace components and drive operational excellence through automation and lean methodologies. Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings, GD&T, and Bills of Materials (BOM). Proficiency in CAD software (CATIA, SolidWorks, or NX). Familiarity with Nadcap, AS9100, and CUI (Controlled Unclassified Information) handling requirements. A "hands-on" engineer who is equally comfortable at a CAD workstation and on the production floor. Strong technical writing skills for formal reports and the ability to present technical roadmaps to executive leadership. Process Ownership & Documentation: Design, develop, and maintain comprehensive manufacturing processes. Author and approve Work Instructions, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and Process Quality Plans (PQP) in alignment with Nadcap and AS9100 standards. Tooling Design & Implementation: Assist the design and procurement of production tooling, molds, and shop aids. Coordinate with the Polymer/Metal 3D printing labs to integrate additive manufacturing solutions into the composite workflow. Continuous Improvement: Drive lean manufacturing initiatives. Analyze cycle time data, implement root-cause corrective actions (RCCA), and execute scrap-reduction programs to improve OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness). Production & Technical Leadership: Provide technical support to shop floor personnel. Act as the primary point of contact for resolving complex composite manufacturing deviations and ensuring the technical integrity of the production line. Quality & Compliance: Lead investigations into non-conforming material reports (NCRs). Define and implement robust quality controls and inspection criteria for composite structures. New Product Introduction (NPI): Partner with Advanced Technologies team to provide feedback on manufacturing processes for new composite components, bridging the gap between prototype and full-scale production. In addition to the above, Composite Manufacturing Engineers are to maintain an organized, clean and safe work area using safety standards and expectations while adhering to all quality practices. Senior is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements

BS/MS/PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related field
Minimum of 3 years of experience in aerospace composite manufacturing (pre-preg, wet lay-up, infusion, or filament winding) or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings, GD&T, and Bills of Materials (BOM).
Proficiency in CAD software (CATIA, SolidWorks, or NX).
Familiarity with Nadcap, AS9100, and CUI (Controlled Unclassified Information) handling requirements.
A "hands-on" engineer who is equally comfortable at a CAD workstation and on the production floor.
Strong technical writing skills for formal reports.
Ability to present technical roadmaps to executive leadership.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and maintain comprehensive manufacturing processes.
Author and approve Work Instructions, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and Process Quality Plans (PQP) in alignment with Nadcap and AS9100 standards.
Assist the design and procurement of production tooling, molds, and shop aids.
Coordinate with the Polymer/Metal 3D printing labs to integrate additive manufacturing solutions into the composite workflow.
Drive lean manufacturing initiatives.
Analyze cycle time data, implement root-cause corrective actions (RCCA), and execute scrap-reduction programs to improve OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).
Provide technical support to shop floor personnel.
Act as the primary point of contact for resolving complex composite manufacturing deviations and ensuring the technical integrity of the production line.
Lead investigations into non-conforming material reports (NCRs).
Define and implement robust quality controls and inspection criteria for composite structures.
Partner with Advanced Technologies team to provide feedback on manufacturing processes for new composite components, bridging the gap between prototype and full-scale production.
Maintain an organized, clean and safe work area using safety standards and expectations while adhering to all quality practices.