Technical Lead, Infused Aerospace - Salt Lake , UT

Location:

Salt Lake City, UT

The Project Engineer will be responsible for driving the development of a high‑rate layup solution for a primary aerostructure in collaboration with European customers, government and academia agencies. The role will focus on leading the design, integration and validation of advanced composite layup and custom tooling technologies to advance the manufacturing readiness level for the primary aerostructure. Upon success this position is expected to support a 2‑year technology transfer to Europe as an expat assignment.

• Serve as the technical focal point for the primary aerostructure high‑rate layup project, ensuring alignment between internal teams, European customers, supporting agencies and equipment suppliers.
• Drive technology maturation by advancing composite structure solutions between concept and design to prototype and pilot production, ensuring readiness for integration into development and low‑rate production programs.
• Lead the evaluation of DFP vs NCF layup solutions through material conformance and producibility trials.
• Define requirements, design concepts and oversee procurement of a custom DFP head including modular/dockable systems for multiple tow widths and head sizes.
• Develop and validate custom forming tooling to support flange post‑placement operations, ensuring accuracy and repeatability in tight radii and Z‑shaped geometries.
• Support design and integration of tooling for part fixturing, handling and forming downstream of layup.
• Oversee integration of in‑process inspection systems for ply accuracy and defect detection.
• Drive development of automated tool handling systems (e.g., MGV/AGV) eliminating crane lifts and enabling continuous part flow.
• Ensure tooling and equipment solutions meet cost, rate, ergonomics and quality requirements for industrialization.
• Collaborate with tooling suppliers to ensure robust, production‑ready designs.
• Mentor engineers and technicians on layup tooling best practices and automation readiness.

Desired background includes:

• 5+ years experience in advanced composites manufacturing with direct involvement in tooling design, procurement and validation.
• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical or related engineering.
• Strong background in composite layup and forming tooling, including custom forming dies, fixtures and handling tools.
• Experience with automated layup heads (AFP/DFP) and modular head systems.
• Hands‑on experience specifying or commissioning post‑forming tooling solutions for complex geometries.
• Experience in assembly of composite aerostructures and understanding of manufacturing tolerances, bonding and fastening.
• Track record of leading engineering teams and delivering complex structural solutions.
• Excellent communication, leadership and customer engagement skills.
• Proficiency in CAD (CATIA V5, 3DX) and digital manufacturing methods.
• Familiarity with AGV/MGV material handling and tool automation.

Work is conducted in an indoor production environment with adequate lighting and temperature. Occasional moderate noise and machinery exposure. Travel up to 50% required.

• Occasionally move office items >10 lbs.
• Frequently move around production floor and office areas for meetings or training.
• Remain stationary up to 75% of the time.
• Frequently operate a computer, enter data and verify information.