Senior Materials, Process, & Test Engineer

Responsibilities

• Developing and qualifying new materials, processes, and joining technologies for composite and metallic airframe structures.
• Leading material and process specifications, including supplier coordination and approval.
• Designing and executing test campaigns (coupon-level through full-scale) to validate performance, safety, and compliance.
• Applying knowledge of FAA Part 23 requirements, ASTM standards, and industry best practices for materials and process qualification.
• Driving structural and material trade studies to balance weight, manufacturability, durability, and cost.
• Supporting failure investigations, root-cause analysis, and corrective actions related to material performance.
• Interfacing with suppliers and manufacturing teams to ensure successful process implementation and scale-up.
• Preparing and presenting at internal and external design/test reviews to demonstrate compliance and readiness.
• Communicating technical information effectively across engineering teams, leadership, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor\'s degree in Materials Science, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering (or related STEM discipline).
• Minimum 5+ years of experience in aerospace materials and processes, including composite and metallic structures.

Required Skills

• Expertise in aerospace material systems (metallic alloys, composites, adhesives, coatings, etc.).
• Strong understanding of material processing methods (lamination, curing, heat treatment, bonding, welding, additive manufacturing, etc.).
• Experience in design, planning, and execution of structural and environmental test programs.
• Knowledge of certification pathways for materials and processes under FAA Part 23 or Part 25.
• High competence with engineering fundamentals and ability to translate test data into actionable design/process insights.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Strong work ethic and ability to independently lead projects from concept through validation.

Desired Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience with FAA certification processes for materials and processes.
• Familiarity with Siemens NX CAD and Teamcenter PLM software.
• Competency in material and structural analysis (static, fatigue, thermal, and environmental performance).
• US Person (Citizen or Green Card) preferred.
• PPL

Location

Headquarters in Manassas, VA. To encourage close collaboration, this position is 4-5 days in the office, with some virtual work allowed.

Salary

Electra\'s salary range for this position is: $130, ,000.00. Individual pay is based on additional factors, including project budgets, job-related skills, experience, relevant education and/or training, role, level, location, and project.

Compensation and Benefits

Electra offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD, and life insurance, paid time off, company holidays, and a 401(k) plan with immediate vesting. The company may offer additional perks as part of the total rewards package.