Materials, Process, and Test Engineer

Rock West Composites • San Diego, CA

8d • Onsite

About The Position

Rock West Composites, Inc. has an exciting opportunity for a Materials, Process, and Test Engineer. Rock West Composites, Inc. is an engineering and manufacturing company dedicated to providing innovative solutions for commercial and government customers. We provide cradle-to-grave services for primary and secondary composite structures. This position is located in our San Diego, CA HQ office and reports to the VP of Engineering. 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.

Requirements

• 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
• 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
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Must be a U.S. Person (due to ITAR requirements)
• Ability to pass background check and drug screening

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree preferred
• Experience with engineering test equipment and data acquisition systems preferred
• Microsoft Project experience is a plus

Responsibilities

• 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
• 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
• 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
• 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

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)
• 8 Paid Holidays + Generous PTO (up to 4 weeks after 5 years)
• $2,500 Tuition Reimbursement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level