Engineer, Materials Testing (Aerospace)

Overview

Element Huntington Beach is currently hiring for an Engineer to join their growing Materials Testing Team. The Engineer is responsible for evaluating current and future test capabilities, building and executing capital expenditure (CapEx) plans, and driving continuous improvement across lab operations. This role requires a strong mechanical testing background, strategic project planning skills, and the ability to transform technical concepts into operational services. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on technical contributor who plays a key role in expanding service offerings and enabling long-term business growth.

Compensation: $75,000-$95,000/year

Responsibilities

• Evaluate existing mechanical and materials testing capabilities and identify opportunities for expansion or improvement.

• Develop and execute detailed CapEx plans to add or upgrade test equipment and infrastructure.

• Lead project planning efforts to move new capabilities from concept through procurement, setup, validation, and into ready-to-offer service status.

• Own the end-to-end implementation of new testing services, including test development, documentation, technician training, and integration into operations.

• Drive process improvements to increase efficiency, quality, and safety in lab workflows.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Operations, and Quality teams to understand customer needs and align new capabilities with market demand.

• Lead validation of new test methods and ensure compliance with relevant standards (e.g., ASTM, ISO, Nadcap).

• Monitor industry trends and emerging technologies to proactively propose investments and technical innovations.

• Provide technical support to internal teams and assist with complex customer inquiries regarding testing capabilities.

• Support audits, compliance documentation, and system improvements related to quality and testing accuracy.

Skills / Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical field (Master’s preferred).

• 3–7 years of experience in mechanical or materials testing, with a focus on lab operations, method development, and equipment implementation.

• Proven experience in project planning and execution of capital investment initiatives.

• Hands-on experience with a wide range of mechanical tests (e.g., tensile, fatigue, hardness, impact, fracture toughness).

• Strong knowledge of relevant industry standards and quality frameworks (ASTM, ISO, Nadcap, etc.).

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present and justify technical proposals.

• Proficiency with project planning tools, Excel, and data analysis.

• Highly organized, self-driven, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.

Work Environment:

• Work performed in both office and laboratory settings.

• Regular interaction with lab technicians, engineers, and leadership.

• Exposure to mechanical testing environments, including noise, machinery, and PPE use.

• May involve occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs) and standing during equipment evaluations or validations.

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Diversity Statement

At Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming “the world’s most trusted testing partner”.

All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.