Description
The Analytical Solutions Division (ASD) of Applied Research Associates (ARA), Inc., is seeking an experienced Composite Manufacturing Engineer in Huntsville, AL with strong composites manufacturing day-to-day knowledge who will be utilizing previous experience and analyzing materials and data, conducting tests, troubleshooting, monitoring performance, ensuring quality control, and creating documentation of processes. Evaluate, purchase, recommend materials and develop machinery and processes to manufacture materials for use in products that must meet specialized design and performance specifications purchase materials, test materials, and make recommendations for materials and equipment that would improve ARA’s composite capabilities and readiness. The Composite Manufacturing Engineer will work in a team focused environment with production and R&D composite technicians to develop and lead composite layup, assembly processes, while maintaining a safe and effective work practices.
What you’ll do as a Composite Manufacturing Engineer (may not be all inclusive) :
Work with R&D team to develop composite lay-up/spray-up/bonding processes and procedures
Perform layup/vacuum bagging processes
Perform resin infusion (VARTM) processes
Research and recommend materials based on customer specifications/requirements
Research and develop advanced construction techniques based on customer specifications/requirements
Write cure profiles for oven and verify compliance using on board data acquisition
Perform oven characterization events and maintenance
Maintain accurate records to track progress and findings
Responsible for developing new methods of testing, training technicians and lab workers, maintaining inventories and ordering supplies with guidance from supervisor
Ensure all activities are carried out in accordance with project commitments or specific objectives/tasks
Will be responsible for day-to-day coordination and administration of tasks by ensuring quality and productivity standards are maintained while meeting client schedules
In-depth knowledge of composite processes and tools used in those processes to include VARTM, mold making, and multiple types of layups
May develop new uses for known materials
Must haves as a Composite Manufacturing Engineer:
B.S. in Material Engineer or similar discipline and 2-4 years of experience, or a high school diploma (or equivalent) and 8-10 years’ experience in a composite manufacturing field
Must be a U.S. Citizen
Ability to obtain and maintain a SECRET Clearance from the U.S. Department of Defense
Proficient in SolidWorks
Composite manufacturing process development experience
Advanced composite materials and resin experience
Strong composites knowledge in order to lead composite tasks to completion within various team projects simultaneously
Vacuum bagging and layup experience
Inquiring mind that enjoys an R&D environment
The ability to function as an integral part of a team
Must be able to wear appropriate PPE for processes, including but not limited to; gloves, safety glasses, safety shoes, dust mask, air purifying respirator and protective clothing
Job requires constant pushing, pulling, standing, reaching, grasping, bending, and climbing
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
Strong communication skills, both oral and written
Strong time management and attention to detail
In-depth knowledge of composite processes and tools
Would be Preferred:
Active / current SECRET Clearance from the US Department of Defense
DMA/DSC test experience
Vacuum Thermoforming experience
Resin infusion (VARTM) experience
Composite mold making processes and techniques
ARA COMPANY INFORMATION:
Applied Research Associates, Inc. is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, currently employs over 2000 professionals. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. The corporation also provides sophisticated technical products for environmental site characterization, pavement analysis, and robotics.
At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership spawns’ greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take more active roles as owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are eligible for contributions which not only add to the company’s success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit” sums up the ARA experience. For additional information and an opportunity to join this unique workplace, please visit our website at www.ara.com .
Please apply at www.careers.ara.com for the Composite Manufacturing Engineer position.
Qualifications
Behaviors
Required
Detail Oriented: Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well
Dedicated: Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity
Team Player: Works well as a member of a group
Preferred
Innovative: Consistently introduces new ideas and demonstrates original thinking
Functional Expert: Considered a thought leader on a subject
Loyal: Shows firm and constant support to a cause
Motivations
Required
Self-Starter: Inspired to perform without outside help
Flexibility: Inspired to perform well when granted the ability to set your own schedule and goals
Goal Completion: Inspired to perform well by the completion of tasks
Ability to Make an Impact: Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization
Preferred
Growth Opportunities: Inspired to perform well by the chance to take on more responsibilityEducation
Preferred
Bachelor of Engineering or better in Materials Science and Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering or better in Industrial Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering or better in Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering or better in Aerospace Engineering
Experience
Required
2-4 years: Bachelor degree and experience in a combination Composites, Fabrication, and Manufacturing. OR
8-10 years: High school diploma (or equivalent) and experience in composites manufacturing field
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)