Composite Technologist

Job Description Summary
As part of the Materials and Process Development team the Composite Technologist this opportunity is for a 12 month fixed term contract, you will be responsible for working on new technology introduction (NTI) projects related to composite and material technology.
In this role you will need to work with the M&P development team and help develop potential methods and processes for the next generation turbo props and future projects.
Job Description
Material Development:

• Research and develop advanced composite materials (e.g., carbon fiber, fiberglass, resin system) for aerospace applications.
• Innovate materials to improve performance, reduce weight, and enhance fuel efficiency.
• Resolve issues regarding required materials, parts or processes related to your projects

Design and Engineering:

• Collaborate with aerospace engineers to integrate composite materials into aircraft, engines, and other aerospace systems.
• Perform simulations and analysis to predict material behavior under flight conditions, such as extreme temperatures, pressures, and vibrations.

Manufacturing Process Development:

• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes for composite materials, including autoclave curing, resin transfer molding (RTM), and filament winding.
• Ensure processes meet aerospace industry standards and regulations.

Testing and Validation:

• Conduct mechanical, thermal, and chemical testing of composite materials to ensure they meet aerospace-grade specifications.
• Support certification efforts for composite components used in aircraft and engines.

Quality Assurance and Compliance:

• Implement quality control measures to ensure composite materials and processes meet industry standards (e.g., AS9100, FAA regulations).
• Prioritize safety in all aspects of material handling, manufacturing, and testing.
• Encourage and maintain a safe work environment

Collaboration and Support:

• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and testing teams, to ensure seamless integration of composite materials.
• Provide technical expertise to resolve material-related challenges during production.
• Work with external organisations on collaborative programmes.
• Provide regular updates to project teams, using appropriate IT packages such as power point
• Support other team members and provide guidance to technicians

Essential experience
Material Science Expertise

• Knowledge of Aerospace Composites: Familiarity with advanced composite materials such as carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP), glass fiber composites, and hybrid materials.
• Understanding of Material Properties: Expertise in mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties of composites, including fatigue resistance, impact tolerance, and high-temperature performance.

Manufacturing Processes

• Resin Transfer Molding (RTM): Knowledge of closed-mold processes for complex aerospace components.
• Tooling Design: Experience in designing molds and fixtures for composite manufacturing.

Design and Engineering

• CAD and Simulation Tools: Proficiency in aerospace design software such as CATIA

Quality Assurance and Inspection

• Familiar with Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): Experience with ultrasonic testing, X-ray, and thermography to inspect composite components for defects like delamination or voids.

Safety and Compliance

• Chemical Handling: Knowledge of safe handling practices for resins, adhesives, and other chemicals used in composite manufacturing.

Problem-Solving and Innovation

• Defect Analysis: Ability to identify and resolve manufacturing defects, such as fiber misalignment or resin voids.
• Continuous Improvement: Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles to optimize processes and reduce waste.

Collaboration and Communication

• Cross-Functional Teams: Ability to work with engineers, technicians, and quality teams to ensure composite components meet design and performance requirements.

• Technical Documentation: Proficiency in creating and interpreting technical drawings, specifications, and reports.

Lean Manufacturing

• Process Optimization: Experience with lean methodologies to improve efficiency and reduce costs in composite manufacturing.

Qualifications / Requirements

• Bachelor\’s degree from an accredited university/ college or HND or other diploma with manufacturing / engineering experience or relevant experiences
• Hands-on experience with aerospace composite manufacturing techniques, Resin transfer molding (RTM), Hand layup and vacuum bagging, Tooling design and mold preparation.

Desired Characteristics
Technical Expertise

• In-Depth Knowledge of Composites: Strong understanding of composite materials, including carbon fiber, glass fiber, resin systems, and hybrid materials.
• Proficiency in Manufacturing Processes: Expertise in aerospace-specific composite manufacturing techniques such as autoclave curing, automated fiber placement (AFP), resin transfer molding (RTM), and hand layup.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to use simulation tools to analyze and optimize composite designs.

Flexible Working
GE supports and encourages flexible working arrangements, where possible, and recognises the benefits to employees of having a positive work-life balance.
Total Reward
At GE Aviation we understand the importance of Total Reward. Our flexible benefits plan, called FlexChoice, gives you freedom, choice and flexibility in the way you receive your benefits, as well as giving you the opportunity to make savings where possible.
As a new joiner to GE we are pleased to be able to offer you the following as default in your benefit fund, which you then can tailor to meet your individual needs;

• Non-contributory Pension
• Life Assurance
• Group income protection
• Private medical cover
• Holiday Hourly equivalent of 26 days, with flexible option to buy or sell

Security Clearance
Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance is required and must be maintained for this role. Please note that in the event that BPSS clearance cannot be obtained, you may not be eligible for the role and/or any offer of employment may be withdrawn on grounds of national security. Please see the link below for further details regarding the requirements for BPSS clearance: BPSS
Right to Work
Applications from job seekers who require sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. However, under the applicable UK immigration rules as may be in place from time to time, it may be that candidates who do not currently have the right to work in the UK may not be appointed to a post if a suitably qualified, experienced and skilled candidate who does not require sponsorship is available to take up the post. For further information please visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.
Additional Information
Relocation Assistance Provided: No