| Location | Bertram, TX |
| Job Type | Full-time |
| Industry | Computer/IT Services |
| Salary | $95,000–$114,000 Per Year |
| Year Founded | 2005 |
| Headquarters | Farmington Hills, Michigan, US |
| Website | https://www.prolim.com/ |
We are seeking an experienced Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) Manufacturing Engineer II to develop, program, optimize, and support automated composite layup processes for complex aerospace components. This role requires hands-on experience with Ingersoll AFP systems, particularly Gen2 equipment, and proficiency in Vericut Composite Programming (VCP) and Vericut Composite Simulation (VCS).
The engineer will work closely with design engineering, NC programming, production, quality, maintenance, and facilities teams to develop accurate AFP programs, improve manufacturing efficiency, reduce material waste, troubleshoot process issues, and ensure consistent production quality.
Develop and optimize AFP ply programs using Ingersoll Gen2 systems, Vericut Composite Programming (VCP), and Vericut Composite Simulation (VCS).
Translate engineering models, ply books, and lamination schedules into executable AFP machine paths, ensuring accurate fiber orientation, coverage, and ply boundaries.
Support machine setup, calibration, and laser alignment for first-article inspections and repeatable production runs.
Simulate and validate AFP programs, conduct dry runs, and support production operators during manufacturing start-ups.
Optimize machine paths and layup parameters to minimize gaps, overlaps, tow steering errors, and other composite manufacturing defects.
Analyze machine efficiency, identify process bottlenecks, and implement improvements to reduce cycle time, material waste, and operating costs.
Collaborate with design engineering to provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback for composite aerospace components.
Troubleshoot AFP machine and process issues in coordination with maintenance teams and Ingersoll technical support.
Participate in tooling design reviews to verify compatibility with AFP head dimensions, machine accessibility, and laser projection systems.
Support capital equipment implementation, machine commissioning, and process qualification activities as required.
Develop and maintain standard operating procedures, work instructions, AFP best practices, preventive maintenance plans, and critical spare-parts documentation.
Lead or support root cause analysis, corrective actions, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives involving AFP-manufactured components.
Work cross-functionally with production, quality, engineering, maintenance, and facilities teams to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable manufacturing operations.
Manage multiple priorities and deadlines while maintaining excellent attendance, communication, and professional standards.
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in carbon fiber composite aerospace manufacturing.
Hands-on experience with Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) processes and equipment.
Experience with Ingersoll AFP systems, preferably Gen2.
Proficiency in Vericut Composite Programming (VCP) and Vericut Composite Simulation (VCS).
Strong knowledge of composite layup processes, ply orientation, lamination schedules, and manufacturing requirements.
Proficiency in CAD software and AFP programming tools.
Experience analyzing machine performance and implementing process improvements to reduce cycle time, defects, and material waste.
Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across engineering and manufacturing teams.
Demonstrated initiative, adaptability, and the ability to deliver results in a fast-paced aerospace manufacturing environment.
PROLIM is a leading provider of end-to-end IT, PLM and Engineering Services and Solutions for Global 1000 companies. They understand business as much as technology, and help their customers improve their profitability and efficiency by providing high value technology consulting, staffing, and project management outsourcing services.