Title: Manufacturing Engineer – Aerospace/Defense
Location: Palmdale, CA
Pay Rate: $60.00 - $100.00
Job Summary
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Manufacturing Engineer to support aerospace/defense production operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for developing, improving, and implementing manufacturing processes, assembly procedures, tooling concepts, and digital work instructions to support efficient and high-quality production.
The ideal candidate will have experience supporting complex assemblies, cross-functional production teams, and manufacturing process improvements using CAD/PLM tools such as CATIA and Teamcenter.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
3+ years of experience in a manufacturing or aerospace production environment
Experience supporting cross-functional manufacturing operations
Experience with manufacturing processes such as:
Assembly
Machining
Electrical harness fabrication/routing
Systems installation
Final assembly operations
Experience creating visual or digital work instructions for manufacturing environments
Proficiency with:
CATIA
Teamcenter
Strong problem-solving and process improvement skills
Excellent communication and collaboration abilities
Preferred Qualifications
Aerospace or defense manufacturing experience
Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies
Knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC)
Experience with automation, robotics, or smart factory technologies
Familiarity with MES, ERP, or manufacturing analytics tools
Experience supporting high-volume or complex production environments
Security Clearance Requirement
Active U.S. Secret Clearance required
Clearance investigation within the last 5 years or Continuous Evaluation enrollment required
Ability to obtain and maintain program access as required
Work Schedule
4/10 Schedule (4 days/week, 10-hour shifts)
Key Responsibilities
Develop and implement manufacturing processes, procedures, and production methodologies for aerospace/defense assemblies and installations
Create and maintain visual/digital work instructions using 3D model-based definitions
Support assembly, machining, systems installation, electrical harness fabrication/routing, and final assembly operations
Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, quality, planning, scheduling, and production teams
Analyze manufacturing processes and identify opportunities for automation, robotics, and process optimization
Troubleshoot production issues and drive root cause corrective actions
Utilize manufacturing data, SPC, and reporting tools to improve operational efficiency and product quality
Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost reduction
Review engineering designs and provide manufacturability feedback to product design teams
Evaluate tooling, equipment, and production systems performance to ensure operational excellence