Composites Application Engineer at Continuous Composites in Kent, WA

Composites Application Engineer

Location: Kent, Washington

About Continuous Composites:

At Continuous Composites Inc., we are redefining what is possible in advanced manufacturing. Our unique CF3D® technology for composite 3D printing opens new frontiers in Aerospace and Defense. We thrive on innovation, rapid iteration, and empowering every team member to take initiative and drive breakthrough solutions. Our mission is to transform industrial manufacturing through pioneering research, creative problem-solving, and relentless execution.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a dynamic and technically proficient Composite Application Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will develop, optimize, and implement advanced composite solutions using our CF3D® continuous fiber 3D printing technology. You will bridge customer requirements and our innovative manufacturing system by combining expert toolpath development, real-time process optimization, and hands-on manufacturing execution to deliver high-performance, manufacturable composite parts for aerospace and defense.

If you thrive on solving tough technical challenges and delivering next-generation composite performance, this is your opportunity to make a real impact in the aerospace and defense industries!

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Customer Collaboration: Partner with customers to understand their technical requirements, challenges, and goals, translating them into actionable solutions using CF3D® technology.
• Solution Development: Design and develop application-specific processes, including material selection, toolpath programming, and print parameter optimization, to meet customer specifications.
• Tooling Design & Optimization: Design and optimize production tools, fixtures, and molds to support efficient CF3D® printing and post-processing operations.
• Process Monitoring & Analysis: Monitor, collect, and analyze real-time printing parameters, fiber placement, layup performance, fiber volume fraction, and cure profiles to identify optimization opportunities and reduce defects.
• Hands-On Technical Support: Provide hands-on support including system setup, parameter tuning, troubleshooting, and process adjustments to assist the shop floor in improving print quality, consistency, cycle time, and overall manufacturability.
• Manufacturing-Focused Continuous Improvement: Analyze production data and customer feedback to drive continuous improvement in toolpaths, printing parameters, and deposition techniques, enhancing both solution performance and manufacturing efficiency
• Customer Technical Support: Provide hands-on support during the deployment and operation of CF3D® systems, troubleshooting issues and ensuring optimal performance.
• Project Management: Lead application-focused projects from concept to completion, coordinating with cross-functional teams including R&D, engineering, and sales.
• Training & Documentation: Develop training materials and documentation to empower customers and internal teams to effectively utilize CF3D® technology.
• Innovation Contribution: Collaborate with R&D to provide feedback from customer applications, driving enhancements to hardware, software, and materials.

• Opportunity Outreach: Develop technical proposals, including well thought out work plans, costing, and time analysis, for DoD and Congressional releases.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a technical or applications engineering role, preferably within the composites or aerospace industries.
• Proficiency in CAD software, preferred SolidWorks or Catia.
• Proven track record of solving complex customer problems.
• Strong understanding of composite materials, manufacturing processes, and relevant aerospace/defense applications.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Engineering degree or equivalent technical background.
• Experience working in a startup or fast-paced, innovative environment.

• Familiarity with aerospace end use design and advanced manufacturing technologies.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 25 pounds at a time.
• Must be able to access and navigate all areas of the industrial facility

Continuous Composites, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employees must be eligible to work in the U.S. and on ITAR-controlled information and eligible to work in the U.S.

Continuous Composites generally does not provide sponsorship for work visas.