Advanced Materials & Process Engineer
Position: Advanced Materials & Process Engineer – CompositesLocation: Marion, VAPay Range: $55.35 – $64.28/hourAbout the RoleCPI is seeking an Advanced Materials & Process Engineer specializing in composites to support cutting-edge materials development for mission-critical defense programs. This role is 100% on-site and involves leading small engineering tasks or projects, supporting production investigations, and driving qualification testing for advanced composite systems.Key ResponsibilitiesLead development of strategic tasks or small engineering projects.Support production program root-cause investigations related to materials and processes; recommend corrective actions.Develop test plans, support on-site testing, and generate test reports for qualification activities.Support internal R&D efforts on composite materials and processes.Interpret technical, organizational, and process requirements and align them to overall project needs.Plan and execute small projects or task elements within larger engineering efforts.Deliver assigned engineering tasks on time and within budget.Identify technical and organizational risks and include them in mitigation plans.Contribute to proposals, including cost estimates and technical content.Participate in feasibility studies and testing of new or modified designs.Occasional travel up to 10%.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related STEM field and 5+ years of relevant experience; or Master's degree plus 3+ years.Must be able to obtain a DoD Secret clearance within a reasonable timeframe.U.S. citizenship required.Technical Skills & ExperienceExperience with polymer matrix composite manufacturing (hand lay-up/autoclave cure, adhesive bonding, RTM).Understanding of polymer chemistry for epoxy, BMI, polyimides, and cyanate ester resin systems.Experience writing process specs and work instructions for composite fabrication.Experience with composite materials testing—mechanical and thermal.Knowledge of chemical surface treatments, electroless/electroplating on non-metallic substrates, photoresist processes, and industrial etching.Experience implementing new processes, documentation, quality controls, and training operators.Strong interpretation of engineering drawings/specs; highly detail oriented.Analytical problem-solving ability.Coatings experience a plus.Workplace Requirements100% on-site in Marion, VA.Eligibility RequirementsU.S. Citizenship is required due to government contract work.No subcontracting or third-party applicants.Why Join CPITake part in advancing next-generation composite materials used in critical defense applications.Join a cohesive team that values innovation, process improvements, and hands-on engineering.Enjoy a low-stress commute and outdoor lifestyle in the Virginia Highlands.Benefit from competitive pay, strong benefits, and opportunities for professional growth within CPI.US CITIZENSHIP REQUIREMENT:This assignment is a US Government Contract which requires all applicants to be US Citizens.NO SUBCONTRACT REQUIREMENT:No third-party applicants will be considered. If you are a third-party contracting company, please do not respond to this position.