Senior Manufacturing Engineer - 4th Shift

Embark on a journey with QDSS at the forefront of technological innovation as we seek talented Engineers to shape the future of cutting-edge projects and contribute to a culture of excellence and creativity.  What we do matters. 

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is seeking experienced Manufacturing Engineers who want to work at the intersection of precision machining, complex metal components, and mission-critical hardware. In this role, you’ll directly support the production of hardware used in advanced defense applications and integrated test systems, owning how critical parts are manufactured, optimized, and delivered.

This is a hands-on engineering role. You’ll be embedded on the manufacturing floor, working closely with operations, design, and quality teams to build and refine processes that produce high-performance components in a highly regulated environment.

You’ll take ownership of the end-to-end manufacturing process for complex 3D metal parts—from material selection and fixturing strategy to multi-axis CNC programming and inspection planning. Your work will directly impact cost, quality, and delivery across programs where precision and repeatability are critical.

If you enjoy solving complex machining challenges, improving processes, and seeing your work translate into real hardware used in high-reliability systems, this is the kind of role where you can make that impact.

Clearance: Active Secret OR able to obtain (Must be US Citizen)

Location: Andover, MA (Onsite) (Relocation assistance provided)
Schedule: 4th Shift – Friday–Sunday, 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Key Responsibilities:

• Support day-to-day manufacturing operations on a CNC machining floor, helping resolve issues and keep production moving
• Own the translation of engineering designs into fully defined manufacturing processes, including material selection, tooling/fixturing, CNC programming, inspection methods, and work instructions
• Develop and optimize multi-axis CNC programs for complex metal components, leveraging modeling and simulation tools
• Partner cross-functionally with design, quality, and operations to ensure manufacturability, quality, and efficiency from initial concept through production
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using data, SPC, and process analysis to improve capability, reduce cost, and increase throughput
• Lead process development for new product introductions, supporting rapid ramp-up and production readiness
• Establish and standardize machining best practices, including documentation of methods, workflows, and operator instructions
• Review and interpret metrology data to ensure processes remain in control and meet strict tolerance requirements
• Mentor and support other engineers and machinists on advanced machining techniques and tooling strategies
• Validate and refine NC programs using tools such as Vericut and Cimco Edit

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of experience supporting CNC machining of metal components in a production or manufacturing environment
• Strong experience developing multi-axis (4+ axis) CNC programs for complex, tight-tolerance parts
• Advanced knowledge of machining processes, cutting tools, feeds/speeds, and machine capabilities
• Experience translating engineering designs into complete manufacturing process plans (materials, fixturing, tooling, CNC programming, inspection, and work instructions)
• Proficiency interpreting and applying GD&T and engineering drawings
• Hands-on experience with fixture design, tooling development, and process optimization
• Experience working in a regulated or high-reliability environment (aerospace, defense, medical, etc.)
• Familiarity with SPC, PFMEA, and process control methodologies
• Ability to work cross-functionally with engineering, quality, and operations teams in a production setting

Desired Qualifications:

• 5-axis CNC programming experience for complex geometries
• Proficiency with NX CAM for medium to highly complex machining programs
• Experience with Creo (CAD/CAM) or similar design/manufacturing tools
• Familiarity with secondary processes such as coatings, plating, and structural assembly
• Experience using Vericut, Cimco Edit, or similar NC validation/simulation tools
• Strong understanding of machining simulation, modeling, and optimization techniques
• Demonstrated ability to lead or influence continuous improvement initiatives
• GD&T certification or advanced application experience
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and solve shop floor challenges
• Experience mentoring engineers, machinists, or technicians

The QDSS Advantage:  

At QDSS, our advantage is purpose-driven work, collaborative teams, and complex challenges that push boundaries and build lasting impact. You’ll grow your career while contributing to mission-critical programs that demand excellence and shape the future. 

What You’ll Find Here 

• Work That Matters – Next-generation, safety- and mission-critical projects where your contributions have real-world impact. 
• Growth That’s Supported – Competitive compensation, employer-matched 401(k), certification assistance, and clear opportunities for advancement. 
• A Culture That Works – A flexible, collaborative, and people-first environment where teamwork, innovation, and balance are valued. 

Benefits Include 

• Competitive pay, comprehensive medical/dental/life and disability coverage, 401(k) with employer match, professional development support, and a flexible, friendly workplace. 

At Quest Defense Systems and Solutions, we don’t just build technology — we engineer the future. From next-generation aerospace solutions to cutting-edge defense systems, we tackle the toughest, mission-critical challenges that keep people safe and push the boundaries of innovation. This is where problem-solvers, innovators, and visionary thinkers come together to shape the future. With over 25 years of aerospace and defense engineering expertise, our commitment to delivering high-quality, transformative solutions sets us apart — not just as an industry leader, but as a driving force for impactful change. Together, we’re not just leading the industry — we’re revolutionizing it.

Quest Defense provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.