Composites Application Engineer

Position Summary

The Composites Application Engineer is responsible for process development and product support across various applications of composite and additive manufacturing machine tools, including but not limited to Automated Fiber Placement (AFP), Automated Tape Laying (ATL), large-format additive manufacturing 3D printing, metal 3D printing, and automated inspection. This includes all activities required to research and develop optimized processes, support sales, train customers, qualify machines, and assist in composite software development. Reports to the Manager of Composite Applications Engineering, Engineering department.

Employment Type: Full-Time, Salaried

Key Responsibilities

• Review and analyze customer part manufacturing requirements.
• Develop and optimize complete manufacturing processes.
• Develop and test alternative techniques and manufacturing processes.
• Provide training to both internal and customer personnel.
• Support a project from proposal to installation and production.
• Produce technical reports for customer and internal use.
• Visit customer/partner facilities to support introduction of systems into production and identify and resolve processing problems, potentially under pressure and on short notice.
• Support composite software development initiatives and process integration activities.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering and manufacturing teams to improve product performance and operational efficiency.
• Maintain regular and predictable attendance at the Rockford, IL facility.
• Work overtime and/or on "off-shifts" as required by business needs.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, Aerospace Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or equivalent technical background.
• CAD experience, preferably CATIA, SolidWorks, or ProE.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Ambitious self-learner with efficient time-management skills.
• Ability to travel in the USA and abroad.
• Ability to instill customer confidence in the company's competency and reliability.
• Excellent communication skills (written, verbal, and listening).
• Must maintain professional appearance and behavior.
• Desk work is estimated at 70% of the time, and implementing work on equipment is estimated at 30% of the time.
• Must be able to lift 15 lbs. at times.

  Preferred Qualifications

• Working knowledge of computer programming, preferably Python.
• Working knowledge of NC programming and ability to interpret NC files.
• Experience in large-scale additive and/or composites processes such as 3D printing, Automated Fiber Placement, and composite layup.
• Experience programming and running CNC machine tools, including robotic platforms.
• Working knowledge of machine vision.
• Working knowledge of industrial robotics.
• Experience supporting aerospace, industrial manufacturing, or high-performance production environments preferred.

Location: Rockford, IL

Travel / Deployment Requirements

• Domestic and international travel required based on customer and project demands, potentially for extended periods.
• Travel can be as much as 30%

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $90,000 - $130,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits package available.

About Lean Synergy Solutions

Lean Synergy Solutions is a Veteran-owned and operated recruiting firm that specializes in aligning top-tier talent with high-impact roles across a variety of industries. Our team, consisting of military veterans and industry specialists, brings a mission-driven approach to workforce solutions. Focused on placing skilled professionals in key roles, we help organizations navigate transformation with precision. We are committed to supporting transitioning service members, veterans, military spouses, and civilian professionals by providing access to meaningful, long-term career opportunities in government, public, and private sector positions.