Advanced Materials and Process Engineer

This position supports advanced defense and intelligence programs focused on developing next-generation technologies and mission-critical systems for national security applications. The engineering team works closely with customers and internal development organizations to support high-impact production, R D, testing, and manufacturing initiatives involving advanced composite materials and processes. This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to cutting-edge engineering efforts supporting aerospace and defense systems while working in a highly collaborative environment focused on innovation, manufacturing excellence, and technical problem-solving. Location: Marion, VA (100% On-Site) Travel: Infrequent to up to 10% Clearance Requirement: Ability to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance (U.S. Citizenship required) Key responsibilities include Lead engineering tasks and small projects involving advanced composite materials and manufacturing processes Support production root cause investigations related to materials and processes, and recommend corrective actions Support qualification testing activities, including test plans, execution support, and test reporting Contribute to internal R D initiatives and feasibility studies for new and modified designs Develop and maintain process specifications, work instructions, and manufacturing documentation Participate in proposal support activities, including technical writing and cost estimation Identify technical and program risks and support mitigation planning Collaborate with cross-functional engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams Key technical areas include Polymer matrix composite manufacturing Hand lay-up and autoclave cure processes Adhesive bonding Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) Composite materials testing and qualification Process development and quality/process controls Engineering drawings and specification interpretation Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related STEM discipline 5+ years of related engineering experience OR Master's degree with 3+ years of related experience Experience with composite manufacturing processes and materials engineering Knowledge of epoxy, BMI, polyimide, and cyanate ester resin systems Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense Secret Clearance U.S. Citizenship required Preferred Qualifications Coatings experience Electroless plating and electroplating processes Composite process implementation and operator training Materials testing and qualification methods C2 Essentials is an Equal Opportunity Employer.