Manufacturing Engineer

Position: On-Site Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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 highly skilled Manufacturing Engineer with expertise in composite materials, continuous‑fiber carbon fiber printing, and advanced post‑processing methods. This role is responsible for developing, optimizing, and managing manufacturing processes across the entire composite production lifecycle, including continuous fiber additive manufacturing (CFAM), curing, pyrolysis/pyrolyzation, densification, autoclave operations, and qualification of new processes and equipment. You will work cross‑functionally with Application Engineering, R&D, and Production teams to ensure reliable, scalable, and cost‑effective manufacturing workflows for aerospace‑ and defense‑grade composite structures.

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:

Process Development & Optimization

- Lead development, documentation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes for continuous‑fiber carbon fiber 3D printing, thermal curing, pyrolysation, and densification.

- Establish and refine key process parameters to improve consistency, throughput, and performance.

- Validate new equipment, materials, and workflows through testing, data analysis, and qualification plans.

Manufacturing Operations Support

- Provide hands‑on support to production, including setup, troubleshooting, parameter tuning, and root‑cause analysis.

- Monitor and analyze print and process data such as fiber volume fraction, deposition accuracy, shrinkage, void content, and cure profiles.

- Implement corrective actions to reduce defects and enhance process reliability.

Tooling & Equipment Engineering

- Develop and optimize tooling, fixtures, and thermal process supports.

- Own and optimize operating parameters for autoclaves, furnaces, curing ovens, and pyrolysis systems.

- Work with equipment vendors on upgrades, commissioning, and capability improvements.

Process Control & Documentation

- Create and maintain process specifications, SOPs, travelers, and quality documentation supporting aerospace manufacturing requirements.

- Implement data acquisition, SPC, and real‑time monitoring methodologies.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

- Ensure manufacturability of new part geometries and print strategies in partnership with engineering teams.

- Support R&D transitions of new materials and technologies into production.

- Contribute to customer qualification efforts, technical documentation, and test program support.

Continuous Improvement

- Lead lean initiatives that reduce cycle times, improve quality, and optimize material and equipment utilization.

- Analyze process trends to identify bottlenecks and implement long‑term engineering solutions.

Required Qualifications:

- Minimum of 5 years of experience in a technical or engineering technician role, preferably within the composites or aerospace industries.

- Proficiency in CAD software, preferred SolidWorks or Catia.

- Proven track record of solving complex technical problems.

- Strong understanding of composite materials, manufacturing processes, and relevant aerospace/defense applications.

- Excellent communication skills.

- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment

Preferred Qualifications:

- 5 years technical experience, Engineering Tech degree preferred or equivalent technical background.

- Experience working in a startup or fast-paced, innovative environment.

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

Continuous Composites, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified candidate must be eligible to work in the U.S. Candidates need to be lawfully able to work on ITAR or controlled information which requires that the applicant be a U.S. Person as defined by 22 CFR 120.62.

Continuous Composites generally does not provide sponsorship for work visas.