Materials and Processes Engineer - LO Laboratory and pre-prototyping area manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Materials and Processes Engineer - LO Laboratory and Pre-Prototyping Area Manager

Company: Airbus

Location: Getafe, Community of Madrid, Spain

Job Type: Full time

Category: Materials & Processes Engineering / Operations Management

Date Posted: August 04, 2026

Experience Level: Professional (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in establishing and managing a new laboratory and pre-prototyping area focused on Low Observability (LO) materials, requiring a blend of technical expertise in materials science and engineering processes, alongside strong leadership and project management capabilities.

• The position involves the end-to-end management of a new facility, from initial requirement definition and CapEx planning to ongoing maintenance, equipment calibration, and ensuring strict Health and Safety compliance for operations.

• Key responsibilities include the development, optimization, and testing of advanced materials such as composites, metals, surface treatments, paints, sealants, and elastomeric technologies, with a specific emphasis on LO characteristics and potentially thermal or electrical functionalities.

• The role demands significant cross-functional collaboration, representing the Materials & Process Development department in project meetings, leading testing development activities for LO materials, and providing critical technical support to various service and industrial environments within Airbus.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges technical engineering with operational facility management. While the raw description focuses heavily on the technical aspects of materials and processes, the explicit mention of "Prepare new building" and "Manage new building" with responsibilities like "prepare CapEx process dossier," "coordination of needs of all departments," and "area management" clearly indicates a strong operational and project management component, moving beyond a pure R&D or testing role. The "Manager" title further supports this interpretation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Facility Development & Management: Lead the preparation of requirement dossiers for the new laboratory and pre-prototyping building, including defining CapEx processes, coordinating departmental needs, establishing compliant Health and Safety measures, and developing the financial plan for the facility.

• Operational Oversight: Once the building is complete, ensure its ongoing maintenance, manage daily activities, oversee equipment maintenance and calibration schedules, and guarantee continuous compliance with Health and Safety regulations.

• Materials & Processes Innovation: Drive the research, development, and optimization of composite materials, metals, surface treatments, paints, sealants, and elastomeric technologies, with a specific focus on materials exhibiting Low Observability characteristics.

• Testing and Validation: Lead testing development activities for LO materials, support the definition of test plans for Research & Technology (R&T), new technology development, and material qualification, and prepare test samples for various analyses.

• Technical Support & Problem Solving: Conduct failure analysis for assigned materials and processes, provide essential technical support to service departments, CML (Component Maintenance Lifecycle), and the broader industrial environment, ensuring operational continuity and problem resolution.

• Cross-Functional Representation: Act as a key representative for the Materials & Process Development department (TADAP3) in project meetings, Material Follow-Up Teams (MFTs), and relevant task groups, ensuring alignment and effective communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The original description lists "Materials and Processes Development" as a responsibility, but the specific tasks outlined within it (e.g., "support the preparation of test samples") are better categorized under the broader "Materials & Processes Innovation" and "Testing and Validation" responsibilities to emphasize the actionable nature of the role. The "Representation and Leadership" point has been split to better highlight the distinct functions of representing the department and leading specific technical activities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science is mandatory.

• A Master's Degree in Engineering or Science is highly valued and preferred. Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in materials and processes engineering is required.

• Demonstrated experience within a scientific and technological laboratory environment, including materials analysis and physical observation of samples, is mandatory.

• Experience in the management of a laboratory or pre-prototyping area is desirable.

• Experience in international environments is appreciated. Required Skills:

• Materials Science Expertise: In-depth knowledge of composite materials, metals, surface treatments, paints, sealants, and elastomeric technologies.

• Low Observability (LO) Applications: Specific knowledge of materials suitable for LO applications, and potentially thermal or electrical functionalities.

• Laboratory Operations: Proven experience in scientific and technological laboratories, including materials analysis and physical observation of samples.

• Process Development: Experience in qualifications and development of new materials, processes, and suppliers.

• Regulatory Compliance: Deep knowledge of REACH regulations.

• Quality Assurance: Understanding of material requirements for Airbus standards and general quality standards.

• Problem Solving: Experience in impact analysis and effective problem-solving methodologies.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Ability to support the definition of test plans and manage project-related tasks.

• Communication: Advanced proficiency in both English and Spanish.

Preferred Skills:

• Facility Management: Experience in managing laboratory or pre-prototyping areas, including equipment maintenance and calibration.

• Capital Expenditure (CapEx) Planning: Familiarity with preparing CapEx process dossiers and financial plans for facility development.

• Health & Safety Management: Experience in establishing and maintaining compliant Health and Safety measures within a laboratory setting.

• Aircraft Industry Knowledge: Knowledge of aircraft maintenance, services, and Component Maintenance Lifecycle (CML).

• Material Technology Development: Proven track record in material technology development.

• Leadership: Experience in leading testing development activities and representing a department in cross-functional meetings.

• Additional Languages: Proficiency in other languages is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The original description's "Skills" section was quite broad. This breakdown separates mandatory "Technical Skills" and "Soft Skills" into "Required Skills" and "Preferred Skills" for clarity, and integrates the "Academic" and "Experience" requirements into their respective sections. Specific operations-related skills like CapEx planning and H&S management have been inferred and added to preferred skills, given the facility management aspect of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Laboratory Setup & Operations: Showcase projects where you were involved in the setup, equipping, or operational management of a laboratory or testing facility, detailing the processes implemented for equipment calibration, maintenance, and workflow optimization.

• Materials Development Case Studies: Present detailed case studies of materials (composites, metals, etc.) you have developed, qualified, or optimized, clearly outlining the process followed, challenges encountered, and the resulting improvements in material performance or LO characteristics.

• Process Documentation & Standardization: Provide examples of process documentation you have created or improved, such as Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for material mixing, testing, or safety protocols, demonstrating a commitment to standardization and efficiency.

• Project Management Demonstrations: Include examples of projects where you managed timelines, budgets (especially CapEx if applicable), and cross-functional team coordination for material development or facility setup, illustrating your project management and leadership capabilities.

• Failure Analysis & Problem Solving: Showcase a case study demonstrating your ability to conduct thorough failure analysis on materials or processes, detailing your methodology, root cause identification, and the implemented solutions that led to process or product improvements.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Document the design and implementation of efficient workflows for material handling, testing, and pre-prototyping activities within a laboratory setting.

• Health & Safety Protocols: Develop and document comprehensive Health and Safety protocols specific to handling LO materials, chemical mixing, and operating laboratory equipment, ensuring compliance and risk mitigation.

• Equipment Management: Create and maintain documentation for equipment maintenance schedules, calibration records, and operational procedures to ensure accuracy and reliability in testing.

• Supplier Qualification Processes: Outline processes for qualifying new material suppliers, including criteria, testing, and documentation requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is entirely inferred, as the original job description did not explicitly mention portfolio requirements. However, for a role involving facility management, development, and technical leadership, a portfolio demonstrating practical experience in these areas is crucial for operations and engineering roles. The focus is on showcasing process implementation, problem-solving, and operational efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for professional-level Materials and Processes Engineers with 5-10 years of experience, particularly in a specialized field like Low Observability within a large aerospace company like Airbus, and considering the Getafe, Spain location, the estimated annual salary range is €50,000 - €75,000. This range accounts for the technical expertise, management responsibilities, and the strategic importance of the role. Benefits:

• Generous Paid Time Off: Vacation days plus additional days off throughout the year, promoting work-life balance.

• Competitive Remuneration: Attractive salary package, reflecting professional experience and responsibilities.

• Flexible Work Environment: Hybrid working model where possible, supporting a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.

• Comprehensive Health & Welfare: Health insurance, employee stock options, and a retirement plan to support long-term financial security.

• Professional Development: Study grants and excellent upskilling opportunities to foster continuous learning and career growth.

• On-Site Amenities: Access to on-site facilities such as a free canteen, kindergarten, and medical office, enhancing employee convenience and well-being.

• Transportation Support: Collective transport service available at certain sites.

• Employee Perks: Special rates on various products and benefits.

• Corporate Social Responsibility: Opportunities to participate in social and CSR initiatives.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, typically around 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be offered through the hybrid working model, allowing for some adaptation of daily schedules where feasible, while ensuring operational needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary range is an estimation based on general market data for similar roles in Spain and the aerospace industry, considering the specified experience level and location. Benefits are directly extracted from the provided text and organized for clarity.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing. Airbus is a global leader in the design, manufacturing, and sale of aerospace products, services, and solutions. The company operates in a highly regulated, innovation-driven, and safety-critical environment.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (Airbus employs over 130,000 people globally). This size implies structured processes, extensive resources, and opportunities for specialization and cross-functional collaboration within a vast organizational network.

Founded: 1970. With over 50 years of history, Airbus has a well-established reputation, a strong legacy of innovation, and a deep-rooted culture of engineering excellence and continuous improvement.

Team Structure:

• Departmental Focus: The role sits within the Materials & Process Department (TADAP3), specifically within the Airframe organization, focusing on Development. This suggests a team dedicated to the research, qualification, and implementation of advanced materials and manufacturing processes for aircraft structures.

• Reporting & Collaboration: The position requires representation in project meetings and Material Follow-Up Teams (MFTs), indicating a matrixed reporting structure where the individual collaborates with project managers, design engineers, manufacturing engineers, and potentially procurement specialists. The direct reporting line is likely to a manager within the Materials & Process Department.

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates close collaboration with various departments, including R&T (Research & Technology), design, manufacturing, industrial support, and potentially external suppliers, to ensure seamless integration of new materials and processes into aircraft programs.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Development: Operations within Airbus likely emphasize rigorous data analysis for material characterization, performance validation, and failure analysis, ensuring that decisions are based on empirical evidence.

• Process Optimization & Standardization: A strong focus on defining, documenting, and optimizing workflows for material development, testing, and facility management, adhering to stringent quality and safety standards (e.g., REACH, Airbus standards).

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: The culture likely encourages proactive research into new technologies, materials, and processes, with a commitment to continuous improvement in efficiency, performance, and safety, particularly in specialized areas like Low Observability.

Company Website: https://www.airbus.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context has been inferred based on the provided company name "Airbus" and its known industry. The interpretation of company size, founding date, and typical industry methodologies aims to provide a richer understanding of the work environment for an operations professional.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Professional-level role, requiring significant technical expertise and operational management experience. It sits beyond an entry-level or junior engineering position, demanding a track record of successful project contributions and the ability to manage complex technical and facility-related tasks independently. It is a key role in the Materials & Processes domain, with potential for growth into more senior technical leadership or broader operational management positions.

Reporting Structure: The role involves reporting to a manager within the Materials & Process Department (TADAP3) and requires active participation in cross-functional project teams (e.g., Material Follow-Up Teams - MFTs). This structure allows for both specialized departmental guidance and broad project exposure.

Operations Impact: The successful candidate will directly impact the development and implementation of critical materials for Low Observability applications, which are vital for the performance and stealth capabilities of advanced aerospace platforms. By managing the laboratory and pre-prototyping area, they will ensure the operational readiness and efficiency of the infrastructure supporting these critical R&D and production activities. Their work will contribute to product innovation, quality assurance, and the successful execution of aerospace programs.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in Low Observability materials, composites, or other specialized areas within Materials & Processes, potentially leading to Principal Engineer or subject matter expert roles.

• Management & Leadership: Progress into a senior management role overseeing larger teams, multiple laboratories, or broader operational functions within the Materials & Processes department or Airframe organization.

• Cross-Functional Advancement: Transition into roles in Program Management, R&T Management, or Manufacturing Engineering, leveraging the broad understanding of materials, processes, and facility operations gained in this position.

• Continuous Learning: Opportunities for further education, specialized training, and participation in industry conferences to stay abreast of the latest advancements in materials science and aerospace manufacturing technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is inferred, focusing on how the specific role of a Materials and Processes Engineer with management responsibilities fits into a typical career progression within a large aerospace organization like Airbus. It highlights the blend of technical depth and operational oversight as a foundation for future growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as having a "Hybrid model of working when possible," indicating a blend of on-site work at the Getafe facility and potential remote flexibility. The primary work environment will be within the new laboratory and pre-prototyping area.

Office Location(s): Getafe, Community of Madrid, Spain. This location is a significant industrial hub, particularly for the aerospace sector. The presence of Airbus facilities here suggests a supportive ecosystem for engineering professionals.

Workspace Context:

• Laboratory Environment: A significant portion of the work will be conducted within a laboratory setting, requiring hands-on engagement with materials, equipment, and testing procedures. This space will be newly built and managed, offering a modern and potentially customized workspace.

• Collaborative Hub: The new facility is intended to serve multiple departments, fostering a collaborative environment where engineers and technicians from different disciplines can interact, share knowledge, and work together on development projects.

• Technology-Rich: The role will involve the use of advanced laboratory equipment for material analysis, testing, and pre-prototyping, as well as standard office technology for documentation, planning, and communication.

Work Schedule: While a hybrid model is mentioned, the nature of managing a laboratory and pre-prototyping area, especially during its setup and initial operational phases, will likely require a significant on-site presence to ensure safety, oversee activities, and manage equipment. Standard working hours are expected, with potential for flexibility managed by the individual and their direct manager.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section extrapolates details about the work environment based on the "Hybrid model" mention and the nature of a "Laboratory and pre-prototyping area manager" role, assuming a blend of hands-on lab work and office-based planning/management.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter to assess alignment with the required technical skills (Materials Science, LO applications, lab experience) and management experience.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions with Materials & Processes experts and potential future colleagues to evaluate your technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of relevant standards (REACH, Airbus standards). Expect questions on composite materials, metals, testing methodologies, and failure analysis.

• Managerial/Leadership Interview: Assessment of your experience in facility management, project coordination, Health & Safety awareness, CapEx planning (if applicable), and your approach to leading teams and representing a department.

• Case Study/Presentation: You may be asked to present a past project (from your portfolio) showcasing your experience in materials development, laboratory management, or process improvement, demonstrating your ability to articulate technical concepts and operational strategies.

• Cultural Fit & HR Interview: Evaluation of your soft skills, adaptability, communication style (English/Spanish proficiency), and alignment with Airbus's values and working culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: For each project presented, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the actions taken, and the quantifiable results or improvements achieved (e.g., improved material performance, reduced testing time, enhanced safety compliance, successful facility setup).

• Showcase Technical Depth: Detail your specific contributions to material development, characterization, testing, or process optimization. Use technical terminology accurately.

• Highlight Management & Operational Skills: Include examples of your experience in managing laboratory operations, equipment, safety protocols, or coordinating cross-functional teams for facility development.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Present case studies of challenges you've faced (e.g., material failure, process bottleneck, facility requirement conflict) and how you systematically analyzed and resolved them.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or functional area (e.g., Facility Management, Material Development, Process Improvement), with clear summaries for each item. Be prepared to walk through specific examples during the interview.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be ready for hypothetical scenarios related to setting up a new lab, managing equipment failures, addressing safety concerns, or resolving conflicts between different departmental needs for the facility.

• Process Design Exercise: You might be asked to outline the steps involved in setting up a specific testing process or a new material qualification workflow.

• Technical Problem Solving: Prepare to discuss how you would approach diagnosing a material performance issue or optimizing a specific process for LO applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is inferred, drawing upon typical interview processes for engineering and management roles in large, technical organizations. The emphasis is on preparing for both technical and operational/managerial aspects, with specific advice on how to present a portfolio that showcases relevant skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Materials Characterization Equipment: Experience with analytical instruments for materials testing (e.g., SEM, EDS, FTIR, DSC, TGA, tensile testers, impact testers, rheometers).

• Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS): Familiarity with systems for managing lab data, samples, workflows, and reporting.

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in tools for planning, scheduling, and tracking projects, especially for facility development and CapEx (e.g., MS Project, Jira with relevant plugins).

• CAD/CAM Software: Basic understanding or ability to interpret CAD designs for facility layouts or pre-prototyping components.

• Statistical Analysis Software: Tools for data analysis, process capability studies, and quality control (e.g., Minitab, SPSS, R).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in analyzing experimental data to draw conclusions, identify trends, and support decision-making.

• Reporting Software: Ability to generate clear and concise technical reports, presentations, and summaries for stakeholders.

• Dashboarding Tools: Experience with tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) for visualizing lab performance metrics, safety compliance, and project status.

CRM & Automation:

• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: Familiarity with ERP systems (like SAP, which Airbus uses) for procurement, inventory management, and financial tracking related to CapEx and operational expenses.

• Automation Software: Potential exposure to lab automation or process automation tools for repetitive tasks or controlled experimental setups.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for storing, versioning, and retrieving technical documentation, standards, and safety procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is inferred based on the job description's focus on a laboratory, pre-prototyping area, materials science, and facility management. It lists typical tools and technologies encountered in such environments within the aerospace industry.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Engineering Excellence: A commitment to rigorous scientific principles, data-driven decision-making, and high-quality execution in all materials and process development activities.

• Safety First: An unwavering dedication to maintaining a safe working environment, adhering to strict Health and Safety protocols, and proactively identifying and mitigating risks within the laboratory.

• Innovation & Adaptability: A culture that embraces new technologies, encourages creative problem-solving, and adapts to evolving project requirements and material science advancements, particularly in specialized fields like Low Observability.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working effectively across departments and with project teams, sharing knowledge, and supporting collective goals to ensure program success.

• Integrity & Compliance: Upholding the highest ethical standards and ensuring strict adherence to all relevant regulations (e.g., REACH) and company policies.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Proactive engagement with Design, Manufacturing, R&T, and Quality Assurance teams to ensure seamless integration of materials and processes.

• Process Review & Feedback: An open environment where processes are regularly reviewed, and constructive feedback is exchanged to drive continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of technical expertise and lessons learned, potentially through internal presentations, documentation, or mentorship.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is inferred, based on general corporate values of large, engineering-focused organizations like Airbus, combined with the specific operational and technical demands of the role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Facility Setup Complexity: Establishing a new laboratory and pre-prototyping area from scratch involves significant planning, coordination, CapEx management, and ensuring all requirements (technical, safety, operational) are met within budget and timeline constraints.

• LO Material Specifics: Working with Low Observability materials can present unique challenges related to their formulation, handling, testing sensitivity, and specialized equipment requirements.

• Balancing Technical Depth and Management: Effectively managing both the hands-on technical development of materials and the operational oversight of a facility requires strong organizational and time-management skills.

• Cross-Departmental Alignment: Ensuring all stakeholder departments' needs are met and integrated into the facility and process design can be complex due to varying priorities and technical requirements.

• Regulatory Adherence: Staying current with and ensuring compliance with evolving regulations like REACH and internal Airbus standards for materials and processes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Technical Training: Access to advanced training in specific materials science fields, LO technologies, or new testing methodologies relevant to aerospace applications.

• Management & Leadership Programs: Opportunities to develop managerial skills through internal Airbus leadership development programs, project management certifications, or specialized courses.

• Industry Engagement: Participation in aerospace materials conferences, workshops, and forums to network and learn about emerging trends and technologies.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior engineers or operations leaders within Airbus, gaining insights into career progression and strategic decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is inferred, based on the inherent complexities of setting up new facilities, working with specialized materials, and managing technical teams within a large corporate structure like Airbus.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience in preparing requirement dossiers for new laboratory facilities. What were the key considerations, and how did you manage stakeholder input?" (Focus on your process, CapEx, and coordination skills.)

• "Walk us through a complex materials development project you managed. What were the key technical challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the final outcome?" (Highlight your technical expertise, problem-solving, and project management.)

• "How would you approach establishing Health and Safety protocols for a new laboratory handling specialized materials like those for Low Observability?" (Demonstrate your understanding of safety compliance and risk management.)

• "Imagine two departments have conflicting requirements for laboratory space or equipment. How would you mediate and reach a consensus?" (Assess your conflict resolution and negotiation skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Airbus's commitment to innovation in materials and processes, particularly in areas like Low Observability?" (Research Airbus's R&T initiatives and LO programs.)

• "How do you see your role contributing to Airbus's overall mission and product development goals?" (Connect your responsibilities to the company's strategic objectives.)

• "Describe a time you had to adapt to a significant change in a project or work environment. How did you handle it?" (Assess your adaptability and resilience.)

• "What are your expectations regarding collaboration within a multi-disciplinary team at Airbus?" (Show alignment with a collaborative and integrated work culture.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the "Situation," "Task," "Action," and "Result" (STAR method).

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers and data to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "reduced testing time by 15%," "qualified 3 new suppliers," "achieved 99.8% compliance with REACH").

• Showcase Technical & Operational Balance: Ensure your portfolio examples demonstrate both your deep technical understanding of materials and processes, and your practical experience in facility/operations management.

• Prepare for Deep Dives: Be ready to discuss the technical minutiae of your projects, the specific tools and methodologies you used, and the rationale behind your decisions.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that align with laboratory management, material development for specialized applications (like LO), and cross-functional collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is inferred, providing actionable advice for interview preparation based on the role's requirements and typical interview practices for engineering and operations management positions in large, technical organizations.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Materials and Processes Engineer position at Airbus:

• Submit your application through the official Airbus careers portal via the provided URL.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific experience in materials science, laboratory management, process development, and any relevant technical skills (composites, metals, LO materials, failure analysis). Quantify achievements and use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate examples of your work that showcase your ability to manage technical projects, develop materials, optimize processes, and potentially manage lab facilities or safety protocols. Focus on quantifiable results and clearly define your role.

• Research Airbus: Familiarize yourself with Airbus's products, current projects, and its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and engineering excellence, especially within the aerospace and defense sector.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to articulate your experience using the STAR method, focusing on both technical expertise and operational/management capabilities. Be ready to discuss challenges, solutions, and your approach to collaboration and safety.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.