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Job Description

Were seeking a Senior Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) Manufacturing Engineer to join a cutting-edge composites team working with one of the most advanced AFP machines in the world. This is a high-impact, highly specialized role focused on programming, process optimization, and cross-functional collaborationnot machine operation.

In this role, youll also be expected to have a comprehensive understanding of CNC machining and programming operations, contributing to the development of the largest liquid-filled all-composite rocket ever built. Youll work closely with Manufacturing Technicians, Engineers, and Design teams to optimize machining programs and procedures in a high-mix, low-volume environment.

This is a single-point-of-contact role for AFP operations, requiring a high level of ownership and availability, including on-call support during weekends.

Key Responsibilities

AFP & ATL Engineering:

Program and optimize AFP/ATL machines for complex composite layups

Develop and refine tool paths, steering strategies, and ply placement

Interface with machine controllers and proprietary programming environments

Collaborate with design, tooling, and quality teams to ensure manufacturability

Support preventive maintenance and machine troubleshooting (not operation)

Drive continuous improvement in layup quality, cycle time, and material utilization

Contribute to the development of digital work instructions and standard work

Participate in root cause analysis and corrective actions for AFP-related issues

CNC Programming & Machining:

Generate and maintain CNC programs and setup sheets

Define and adjust speed/feed parameters for tool life and performance

Suggest drawing changes to improve manufacturability and programming strategy

Design and machine fixture tooling as needed

Digitally proof programs and simulate tool paths to avoid machine crashes

Use Siemens NX for surface modeling, tool path generation, and simulation

Understand gantry kinematics and interpret output files

Monitor machine response to programs and optimize accordingly

We are a company committed to creating inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal opportunity employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment opportunities without regard to race, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, citizenship status, disability, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to Human Resources Request Form (https://airtable.com/app21VjYyxLDIX0ez/shrOg4IQS1J6dRiMo) . The EEOC "Know Your Rights" Poster is available here (https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088\_EEOC\_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf) .

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Skills and Requirements

510+ years in aerospace composites, with a focus on AFP, ATL, or automated layup

5+ years programming for 5-axis milling or large-format gantry operations

Experience with AFP machines (Ingersoll, Electroimpact, MTorres, Coriolis)

Proficiency in CATIA V5/V6 (CPD/FFD), Siemens Fibersim, and NX

Strong understanding of tool path generation, collision avoidance, and offline programming

Familiarity with composite materials (prepreg, thermoplastic, out-of-autoclave)

Experience with layup tooling, vacuum checks, cure cycles, and bonding operations

Comfortable with NC programming, machine calibration, and machine interface systems

Knowledge of industry specs like AS9100, NASA-STD-5009, or OEM-specific standards

Willingness to be hands-on with machines and optimize through direct observation Masters degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering

10+ years of CNC programming experience

Experience with multi-axis mill and lathe CNC machines

Coding skills in Python, macros, Visual Basic, Excel scripting, or file parsing/editing

Experience with MES, ERP, and PLM tools (e.g., Windchill, Teamcenter)

Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma Green/Black Belt certification

Familiarity with statistical process control (SPC) and capability analysis

Background in scaling AFP from prototype to rate production null

We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion,sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military oruniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, andordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please send a request to [email protected].