Composite Product Development Engineer

Composites Product Development Engineer - Advanced Manufacturing and Scaled Composite SystemsHawthorne, California | On-siteOpportunity SummaryA fast-growing advanced manufacturing startup is developing next-generation composite manufacturing technologies focused on producing lightweight, high-performance structures at significantly higher production rates than traditional composite processes. The team is building scalable manufacturing capabilities for aerospace, defense, propulsion, and industrial applications where speed, durability, and cost efficiency are critical. This role is focused on leading the development of composite products from concept through scaled production. The engineer will own product development activities across design, prototyping, manufacturing integration, validation, and process optimization. The position requires a highly hands-on individual comfortable operating in an early-stage environment where engineering, manufacturing, quality, and project ownership often overlap. The work will directly influence product performance, manufacturing scalability, and long-term technical direction.About UsWe are an early-stage deep tech manufacturing company building advanced composite production technologies for high-performance applications across aerospace, defense, and industrial markets. Our team combines engineering, manufacturing, and materials expertise to develop scalable production systems capable of delivering complex composite hardware at production volumes and speeds not achievable through traditional methods. We operate in a highly collaborative environment focused on rapid iteration, technical problem solving, and real-world execution.Job DutiesLead composite product development efforts from initial concept through manufacturing scale-upDesign and optimize composite structures, tooling, and manufacturing workflows for production environmentsSupport material selection, laminate development, layup strategies, and manufacturing process integrationDevelop first articles, prototype hardware, and manufacturing validation plansDrive design-for-manufacturing initiatives to improve throughput, repeatability, and product qualityCollaborate with manufacturing, quality, and supply chain teams to transition products into productionManage technical projects, schedules, vendors, and external manufacturing partnersConduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for manufacturing and quality issuesSupport inspection activities, process improvements, and continuous manufacturing optimizationWork directly with composite manufacturing equipment, tooling, ovens, presses, and production hardwareCoordinate technical requirements with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional engineering teamsContribute to scaling long-term manufacturing and engineering capabilities as the company growsQualificationsBachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science, Manufacturing Engineering, Composites Engineering, or related technical field4+ years of experience working with fiber-reinforced composite materials in design and manufacturing environmentsStrong experience with composite product development and manufacturing processesHands-on experience with CAD modeling and GD&TDemonstrated ownership of products through development, testing, and manufacturing executionExperience supporting rapid prototyping and technical iteration cyclesProven ability to improve or scale manufacturing operationsStrong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in fast-paced engineering environmentsExperience working with suppliers, vendors, and cross-functional engineering teamsComfortable operating directly with manufacturing equipment and production hardwareMust be eligible to work on U.S. export-controlled programsPreferred ExperienceExperience with compression molding, injection molding, or other advanced composite manufacturing methodsFamiliarity with continuous fiber layup processesExperience supporting aerospace, propulsion, or defense manufacturing programsKnowledge of ISO 9001 and AS9100 quality standardsExperience with FEA and structural analysis toolsBackground in manufacturing process development and continuous improvement initiativesExperience working within small, highly technical startup teamsExperience presenting technical programs, schedules, or business cases to leadership teamsFamiliarity with R&D-driven manufacturing environmentsWhy Join UsOpportunity to help build and scale next-generation composite manufacturing technologiesHigh ownership environment with direct impact on products, manufacturing, and company growthExposure to advanced aerospace, defense, and industrial applicationsFast-moving engineering environment with significant technical breadth and career growth potentialEquity participation and the opportunity to grow alongside the companyCollaborative, highly hands-on engineering cultureCompensation Details$175,000 - $235,000