Advanced Materials & Process Engineer

Location: Marion, VA
Pay Range: $55.35 – $64.28/hour

CPI is seeking an Advanced Materials & Process Engineer specializing in composites to support cutting-edge materials development for mission-critical defense programs. This role is 100% on-site and involves leading small engineering tasks or projects, supporting production investigations, and driving qualification testing for advanced composite systems.

• Lead development of strategic tasks or small engineering projects.

• Support production program root-cause investigations related to materials and processes; recommend corrective actions.

• Develop test plans, support on-site testing, and generate test reports for qualification activities.

• Support internal R&D efforts on composite materials and processes.

• Interpret technical, organizational, and process requirements and align them to overall project needs.

• Plan and execute small projects or task elements within larger engineering efforts.

• Deliver assigned engineering tasks on time and within budget.

• Identify technical and organizational risks and include them in mitigation plans.

• Contribute to proposals, including cost estimates and technical content.

• Participate in feasibility studies and testing of new or modified designs.

• Occasional travel up to 10%.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related STEM field and 5+ years of relevant experience; or Master’s degree plus 3+ years.

• Must be able to obtain a DoD Secret clearance within a reasonable timeframe.

• U.S. citizenship required.

• Experience with polymer matrix composite manufacturing (hand lay-up/autoclave cure, adhesive bonding, RTM).

• Understanding of polymer chemistry for epoxy, BMI, polyimides, and cyanate ester resin systems.

• Experience writing process specs and work instructions for composite fabrication.

• Experience with composite materials testing—mechanical and thermal.

• Knowledge of chemical surface treatments, electroless/electroplating on non-metallic substrates, photoresist processes, and industrial etching.

• Experience implementing new processes, documentation, quality controls, and training operators.

• Strong interpretation of engineering drawings/specs; highly detail oriented.

• Analytical problem-solving ability.

• Coatings experience a plus.

• 100% on-site in Marion, VA.

• U.S. Citizenship is required due to government contract work.

• No subcontracting or third-party applicants.

• Take part in advancing next-generation composite materials used in critical defense applications.

• Join a cohesive team that values innovation, process improvements, and hands-on engineering.

• Enjoy a low-stress commute and outdoor lifestyle in the Virginia Highlands.

• Benefit from competitive pay, strong benefits, and opportunities for professional growth within CPI.