**SECRET CLEARANCE** Manufacturing Engineer Level 5

Manufacturing Engineer (Contract) - Rocket Engine & Power Systems

Location: Onsite (9/80 Schedule)

Clearance: U.S. Citizenship required (no dual citizenship) | Ability to obtain Secret Clearance (not required to start)

Job Type: Contract (Potential for Direct Hire Conversion)

About the Role

We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to support the production, assembly, and integration of advanced rocket engine and power system components. This role plays a key part in optimizing manufacturing operations, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and ensuring high-performance outcomes across mechanical systems.

If you are passionate about aerospace manufacturing, lean processes, and complex problem solving, this is a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge propulsion systems with opportunities for career growth.

Key Responsibilities ? Project Management & Continuous Improvement (35%)

• Lead manufacturing initiatives using Lean methodology (Kaizen, 3P, Value Stream Mapping).
• Develop and present strategic manufacturing plans, including risk assessments and improvement proposals.
• Evaluate and differentiate suppliers based on technical capability (repeatability, reliability) and business performance (rates, compliance, ISO standards).
• Create rework instructions and work dispositions for complex assemblies and materials.

Process Development & Optimization (20%)

• Design and improve manufacturing and assembly processes for mechanical components.
• Identify and implement tooling requirements to ensure safety, accuracy, and dimensional control.
• Establish machine setups, loading processes, and handling procedures for optimal efficiency.

Welding Engineering Support (20%)

• Develop and implement welding processes for complex geometries across multiple material types.
• Define tooling and fixturing strategies to support weld integrity and dimensional requirements.
• Support ongoing weld process improvements and production needs.

Change Management & Configuration Control (15%)

• Use engineering software tools (Creo CAD, Windchill PLM, Oracle MRP/MES, MS Office) to track:

• Design updates

• Specification changes

• Process modifications

• Ensure alignment between engineering and manufacturing by updating:

• MBOMs

• Work instructions

• CNC programs

• Tooling designs

• Participate in design change reviews and maintain configuration compliance.

Precision Machining Support (10%)

• Apply GD&T principles to support tight-tolerance machining and inspection processes.
• Define machining methods, measurement strategies, and equipment/tooling requirements.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Required:

• Strong ability to perform risk assessments for personnel safety, environmental impact, and hardware integrity.
• Ability to analyze complex manufacturing challenges and develop actionable solutions.

Preferred:

• Proven expertise in manufacturing engineering within aerospace or high-precision industries.
• Minimum 2 years of welding experience and 2 years of machining experience.
• Deep understanding of Lean manufacturing principles and process improvement tools.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree with 9+ years of relevant experience, OR
• Master's Degree with 7+ years of experience, OR
• 13+ years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree

? Additional Details

• Schedule: 9/80 onsite work schedule
• Travel: Occasional travel may be required based on project needs
• Career Path: Opportunity for full-time conversion based on performance

Why Join?

• Work on cutting-edge aerospace propulsion systems
• Drive innovation in advanced manufacturing processes
• Gain exposure to high-impact engineering projects
• Opportunities for career growth and direct hire potential

Apply today to take your manufacturing engineering career to the next level in a high-performance, mission-driven environment.