At a Glance
- Tasks: Optimise cutting-edge composite manufacturing processes and create technical documentation.
- Company: Join iCOMAT, a leader in advanced lightweight manufacturing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private healthcare, pension scheme, and stock options.
- Other info: Exciting career growth opportunities in a dynamic, inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a global impact in aerospace and automotive industries with innovative technology.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in composites manufacturing and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join iCOMAT – Revolutionising the Future of Lightweight Manufacturing! iCOMAT is an advanced manufacturing company that invented Rapid Tow Shearing (RTS) – the only proven technology for producing defect‑free curved‑fiber composite parts at industrial scale. We deliver the lightest structures possible for aerospace, automotive, defense, and space, at a rate and cost efficiency that far exceeds existing composite production processes. We build and operate automated factories for composite materials, delivering components to Tier 1 suppliers and OEMs.
The business has three main divisions: development of automated production machines, development of software design and production tools, and operation of the factory. We work with 25+ customers and completed the largest ever Series A in composites manufacturing to fuel a significant scale‑up, with growth plans that will see the business multiply in size over the next two to three years and expand operations into the UK, Europe and the US. The business has currently more than 130,000 sqm of production capacity with manufacturing facilities in the UK and the US; a Hardware R&D Centre in Bristol, UK; and a Software R&D Centre in Athens, Greece.
The Role
We are looking for a Composites Manufacturing Engineer to join our Gloucester factory team. This is a hands‑on role at the centre of iCOMAT’s production capability – you will own and optimise the manufacturing processes that turn our technology into real, shipping parts. You will work directly with our production, design, and quality teams to refine layup, cure, and trimming processes, create critical technical documentation, and drive continuous improvement across our operations. If you want to work on parts nobody else on the planet can make, this is the role.
What will you be doing?
- Develop, refine, and optimise composite manufacturing processes including layup, cure cycles, and trimming operations
- Create and maintain technical documentation: Method Sheets, Bills of Materials, and Routings
- Ensure compliance with quality standards (AS9100) across all manufacturing activities
- Support design engineers with composite material analysis, trade studies, and design‑for‑manufacture input
- Lead Material Review Board (MRB) reviews to assess and resolve quality non‑conformances
- Train and upskill production staff on processes, materials, and best practices
- Troubleshoot manufacturing defects and implement corrective actions with speed and rigour
- Assist with equipment installation, commissioning, and qualification of new production capabilities
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing practices
What do we need from you?
- 5+ years of experience in advanced composites manufacturing, with a focus on process development and optimisation in aerospace or defence environments
- Deep working knowledge of composite materials, layup techniques, and curing processes
- Hands‑on autoclave and lamination experience
- Proficiency with CAD files for quotation support, inspections, and process planning
- Strong understanding of AS9100 or equivalent quality management protocols
- Ability to work independently, take ownership, and deliver without being chased
- Excellent communication skills – you will work across engineering, production, and quality teams daily
Nice to Have
- Experience with automated fibre placement (AFP) or fibre steering technologies
- Familiarity with SYSPRO or similar ERP systems
- Lean Six Sigma or continuous improvement certification
- Experience scaling manufacturing operations in a high‑growth environment
Our Values: Uncompromising Excellence
Discipline over excuses. We commit. We follow through. We hold ourselves and each other to the highest standard, especially when the pressure is on. Push the edge. iCOMAT was built on a refusal to accept that curved fiber could not be manufactured at scale. We innovate where others hesitate. Aligned and accountable. Everyone owns their lane, communicates openly, and delivers without being chased. No silos. No ambiguity.
Why iCOMAT?
- Competitive Salary & Benefits: We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including private healthcare, pension scheme.
- Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success.
- Career Growth Opportunities: Join us at a pivotal time as we scale up, offering unmatched professional growth opportunities in the rapidly advancing field of composite materials.
- Innovation‑Focused Culture: We pride ourselves on our inclusive, forward‑thinking work environment. Recognised by Bloomberg as a "UK Startup to Watch," iCOMAT celebrates diversity and encourages all applicants, regardless of background, to apply.
- Global Impact: Be a part of our mission to redefine lightweight structures for the automotive, aerospace and space industries, working with some of the most influential companies worldwide.
Apply now to learn more and join us on our exciting journey!
Composites Manufacturing Engineer (Gloucester) employer: iCOMAT
ICOMAT is an excellent employer located in Gloucester, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises quality and innovation in composite materials. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, robust career development opportunities, and a collaborative culture that encourages process improvements and teamwork. Joining ICOMAT means being part of a forward-thinking company that values your contributions and supports your professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Composites Manufacturing Engineer (Gloucester)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the composites manufacturing field. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, bring along a portfolio of your work. Highlight your experience with composite materials and any projects that showcase your process optimisation skills. This is your time to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into iCOMAT’s technology and values. Understand their Rapid Tow Shearing process and think about how your background aligns with their mission. Tailor your responses to show you’re not just a fit for the role, but for the company culture too!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the iCOMAT team. So, hit that apply button and let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Composites Manufacturing Engineer (Gloucester)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in advanced composites manufacturing. Focus on relevant skills like process development and optimisation, especially in aerospace or defence environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about lightweight manufacturing and how your background aligns with our mission at iCOMAT. Don’t forget to mention specific projects or achievements that showcase your expertise!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:We want to see your hands-on experience! Include details about your work with autoclaves, lamination, and any CAD software you’ve used. This will help us understand how you can contribute to our production processes.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at iCOMAT
✨Know Your Composites Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of composite materials, layup techniques, and curing processes. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with autoclaves and lamination, as this will show that you can hit the ground running in the role.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled manufacturing defects or optimised processes in the past. Highlight your ability to troubleshoot and implement corrective actions quickly, as this aligns perfectly with iCOMAT's focus on continuous improvement.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Quality Standards
Since compliance with AS9100 is crucial, make sure you understand its principles and how they apply to manufacturing. Be ready to discuss how you've ensured quality standards in your previous roles, as this will demonstrate your commitment to excellence.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing technical documentation like Method Sheets and Bills of Materials. Since you'll be working across various teams, showcasing your communication skills will be key to demonstrating that you can collaborate effectively.