Technical Lead, Aerostructures

Albany International Corp.•Salt Lake City, UT

About The Position

This role can be based in the US in 2026 and 2027 but will require an ex-pat assignment to the UK in late 2027 through at least 2029. It is anticipated that the role will return to a US based AEC facility after the Ex-Pat required assignment is completed. We offer a flexible 9/80 work schedule, where you’ll enjoy an extra day off every other week. This structure balances full-time hours with more personal time, supporting both productivity and work-life balance. The Project Engineer will be responsible for driving the development of a high-rate layup solution for a primary aerostructure in collaboration with European customers, government and academia agencies. The role will focus on leading the design, integration, and validation of advanced composite layup and custom tooling technologies to advance the manufacturing readiness level for the primary aerostructure. Upon the success of this project, this position is expected to support a 2-year technology transfer to Europe as an expat assignment.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in advanced composites manufacturing with direct involvement in tooling design, procurement, and validation.
Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related filed. Alternate experience and education may be considered.
Strong background in composite layup and forming tooling, including development of custom forming dies, fixtures, and handling tools.
Experience with automated layup heads (AFP/DFP), head/tool integration, and modular systems.
Hands-on experience specifying or commissioning post-forming tooling solutions for complex geometries.
Experience in the assembly of composite aerostructures, including hands-on knowledge of bonding, fastening, and integration techniques, with a strong understanding of manufacturing tolerances and quality assurance in a production environment.
Strong track record of leading engineering teams and delivering complex structural solutions.
Strong communication skills, ability to engage with leadership, customers, and technical teams.
Proven track records of advancing large aerostructure solutions from concept and design to low-rate production.
Demonstrated experience leading engineering teams in research or development environment.
Strong understanding of manufacturing processes for polymer matrix composites.
Strong background in composite manufacturing methods, including development of custom forming dies, fixtures, and handling tools.
Familiarity with AGV/MGV material handling systems and automation of tool loading/unloading.
Proficient in CATIA V5 or 3DX and digital manufacturing methods.
Excellent verbal, written and presentation communication skills.
Advanced computer proficiency level using the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, & PowerPoint).
Demonstrated problem-solving skills within collaborative, team-based environments.
Ability to assess complex technical landscapes and extract key insights and guiding principles.
Willingness to learn new concepts, tools, and technologies.
Willingness to engage in hands-on work in a dynamic environment.
Strong action orientation with a results-driven mindset, sound decision-making abilities, and a focus on customer success.
High level of attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Nice To Haves

Given the unique nature of this assignment, we will also consider a more junior engineer with 5+ years of experience and a demonstrated ability to learn and master new manufacturing methods in short time.

Responsibilities

Serve as the technical focal point for the primary aerostructure high-rate layup project, ensuring alignment between internal teams, European customers, supporting agencies, and equipment suppliers.
Drive technology maturation by advancing composite structure solution between concept and design to prototype and pilot production, ensuring readiness for integration into development and low-rate production programs.
Lead the evaluation of DFP vs. NCF layup solutions through material conformance and producibility trials.
Define requirements, design concepts, and oversee procurement of a custom DFP head, including modular / dockable systems for multiple tow widths and head sizes.
Develop and validate custom forming tooling to support flange post-placement operations, ensuring accuracy and repeatability in tight radii and Z-shaped geometries.
Support design and integration of tooling for part fixturing, handling, and forming downstream of layup.
Oversee integration of in-process inspection systems for ply accuracy and defect detection.
Drive development of automated tool handling systems (e.g., MGV/AGV), eliminating crane lifts and enabling continuous part flow.
Ensure tooling and equipment solutions meet cost, rate, ergonomics, and quality requirements for industrialization.
Collaborate with tooling suppliers to ensure robust, production-ready designs.
Mentor engineers and technicians on layup tooling best practices and automation readiness.