Aerospace and Defense, AutoCAD, CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Software, CNC (Computerized Numerical Control) Systems, Continuous Improvement, Cross-Functional, Engineering Drawing, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, Identify Issues, Industrial Engineering, Lathe, Leadership, Machine Tool, Machining, Manufacturing, Manufacturing Engineering, Manufacturing Operations, Manufacturing/Industrial Processes, Problem Solving Skills, Process Development, Process Flow, Process Improvement, Production Systems, Reimbursement, SolidWorks, Team Player
LOCATION
Oak Ridge, TN
POSTED
30+ days ago
We’re looking for a driven, hands-on Manufacturing Engineer to join our high-spec aerospace and defense manufacturing operation.
We don’t run a “plug-and-play” shop. We build large, complex CNC machined components and fabricated assemblies that go into mission-critical aerospace, defense, and energy systems—where precision and execution matter.
This role is intentionally open-ended.
You will sit at the center of production, owning how work actually gets done—from process development and machining strategy to real-time problem solving on the shop floor. This is not a support role. This is a build-it, improve-it, own-it role.
If you see inefficiencies, you fix them. If you see better ways to run parts, you implement them. If something breaks in production, you step in and solve it.
For the right person, this is an opportunity to gain full visibility into manufacturing operations and grow quickly into senior engineering or operational leadership.
Compensation
$70,000 – $80,000 / year
Performance-based growth tied to impact
Clear path into senior engineering or operations roles
Responsibilities:
Process Development & Ownership
Develop and refine manufacturing processes for complex machined and fabricated components
Define setups, tooling, workholding, and process flow
Translate engineering drawings into executable shop-floor plans
Continuous Improvement
Identify and eliminate inefficiencies in cycle times, setups, and workflows
Improve throughput, reduce scrap, and increase consistency across production
Implement practical, floor-driven process improvements
Hands-On Problem Solving
Work directly with machinists and operators to troubleshoot production issues
Address tooling challenges, tolerance issues, and process breakdowns in real time
Drive root-cause solutions—not temporary fixes
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with programming, quality, and production teams to ensure smooth execution
Support new job launches from first article through production
Help align engineering intent with shop-floor reality
Build & Expand the Role
Identify gaps in processes or workflow and take initiative to improve them
Contribute to tooling, fixturing, and process standardization efforts
Grow into ownership of larger production scopes over time
Requirements
Required:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, or a related field
1–3 years of experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment, or relevant high-level co-op/internship experience
Strong problem-solving ability and mechanical aptitude
Ability to work in a hands-on manufacturing environment and collaborate directly with shop floor teams
Interest in aerospace, defense, or high-precision manufacturing
Preferred:
Experience in CNC machining or production environments (mills, lathes, or multi-axis)
Familiarity with engineering drawings and GD&T
Experience with CAD software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar
Exposure to high-mix, low-volume or complex manufacturing environments
Experience supporting process improvement, tooling, or production operations
Benefits
Competitive salary and benefits package, including paid healthcare, holidays, and vacation.
Matching 401k.
Education reimbursement.
Opportunities for professional growth and development.