What are the responsibilities and job description for the Composite R&D Engineer position at Fibreworks Composites LLC?
Why Fibreworks Composites?
Founded in 2009 by Guenther Steiner and Joe Hofmann, Fibreworks Composites is the largest privately-owned composite manufacturer in the U.S. In 2019, we expanded our capabilities with the launch of Composite Factory, an AS9100 / ISO-certified sister company serving the Aerospace, Aero Structures, Aviation, Defense, and Medical industries—sectors that demand the highest levels of traceability, certification, and quality.
Rooted in motorsports, our team thrives in a fast-paced, precision-driven environment. We are fully vertically integrated, bringing engineering, machining, tool-making, and production under one roof to deliver advanced Composite Structures on tight timelines with unmatched quality.
If you're looking to be part of a team that pushes boundaries and works with the most advanced technologies in the composites industry, this is where the future is being built!
Position Overview:
The R&D Engineer role is to advance the envelope of cutting-edge capabilities and aid in internal process development. Responsibilities include leveraging new technologies to innovate manufacturing processes and implement cost-saving strategies. Work closely with cross-functional teams, troubleshoot production challenges, and promote innovation within the organization.
Key Responsibilities:
- Research, develop, and train new processes and technologies to enhance the company capabilities.
- Identify areas within the business for improvement and design implementation solutions for better operations and efficiency.
- Stay informed on new technologies, manufacturing methods, materials, etc.
- Present R&D findings with peers, department leads and business leadership.
- Interface and develop relationships with vendors for technical support and cost analysis.
- Produce 3D models and production details as needed and/or work with the design group to facilitate development projects.
- Manage numerous long-term development projects, keeping organized reports or data for goals, priorities, costs, and rates of return.
- Develop, document and help to maintain standard operating procedures.
- Assist with automation efforts in both hardware and software to improve manufacturing processes.
- Apply engineering principles to design, install, and maintain automated systems, potentially including robotics, sensors, and control systems.
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and workplace policies at all times.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support company goals and initiatives.
What You Will Bring to the Team:
- A Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Engineering (e.g., Aerospace, Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or a related field) is preferred.
- Minimum of two years of experience in R&D engineering or related field.
- Experience with composites, robotics, pneumatics, hydraulics, CNC machining, and control systems (PLC, sensors, etc) is preferred.
- Proficiency in CAD software with an understanding of tolerances and their impact on composite manufacturing.
- Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize manufacturing processes.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective collaboration across teams.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office software for documentation and data analysis.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, work under pressure, and meet deadlines.
- A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a commitment to continuous improvement.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.
Our Investment in You:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.
- 401(k) matching after 6 months tenure
- Paid time off (PTO) for vacation and sick days
- Employee referral program
- Shift differential for 2nd shift employees
- Potential to earn quarterly discretionary bonuses based on company performance
- Discounts on select services/products
- Climate-controlled work environment
Hours of Operation:
Normal business hours: 8 am to 5 pm; Monday through Friday, with occasional weekends and holidays as scheduled by leadership.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
- Combination of indoor and outdoor activities with varying conditions
- Requires walking, standing, sitting, climbing, balancing, bending, reaching, handling, stooping, kneeling, and crouching
- Ability to lift/carry/push/pull up to 50 pounds
- May involve operating material handling equipment in a safe manner
- Work may include exposure to variable noise levels, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, etc., requiring personal protective equipment
- Some positions may require working with small parts/components, necessitating excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
- Specific vision abilities required, including close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus
Fibreworks Composites LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.