Engineering Estimator - Precision Machining

At PLI Manufacturing, a company of Phoenix Defense, our team members have incredible opportunities to support fabrication work of critical aerospace/space products for prime initiatives and projects in the aerospace and defense industries. We look for people who are team players, collaborative and bring bold new ideas. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

With every job we fill, our focus is on providing best in class service to our customers while offering the opportunity for career growth in a rewarding and innovative work environment. We are now hiring for an Engineering Estimator. This position is onsite at our Gilbert, AZ location.

• Design and refine CNC machining processes for aerospace components, ensuring efficiency and adherence to engineering specifications.
• Determine appropriate tooling, fixtures, and machine settings to optimize production.
• Collaborate with machinists and production teams to troubleshoot and improve processes.
• Develop and maintain process plans, work instructions, and technical drawings.
• Prepare and update job travelers, manufacturing aids, and detailed process documentation.
• Ensure documentation complies with aerospace standards (AS9100, NADCAP, etc.) and company QMS.
• Participate in MRB activities to assess and address non-conforming components or processes.
• Develop rework instructions to correct out-of-tolerance conditions and ensure conformance to customer requirements.
• Work with quality assurance teams to document and implement corrective actions for non-conformance issues.
• Identify and implement improvements to manufacturing processes, with a focus on cost reduction, quality enhancement, and cycle time reduction.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean Manufacturing and 5S projects.
• Work closely with quoting to ensure product designs are manufacturable and align with company capabilities.
• Coordinate with production, quality, and procurement teams to support project timelines and resolve production challenges.
• Provide guidance and training to production personnel on unique or specialized machining processes and techniques.
• Offer technical support to machinists and other manufacturing staff, ensuring proper application of work.

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline preferred.
• Relevant certifications in CNC manufacturing, process development, or quality control are preferred.
• 3 - 5 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with a focus on CNC machining in an aerospace or precision manufacturing environment.
• Experience with Material Review Board (MRB) processes and developing rework instructions for non-conformance conditions.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software (Solidworks, Mastercam, CATIA).
• Knowledge of aerospace materials and their machining characteristics (titanium, Inconel, aluminum alloys, etc).
• Proficient in reading and interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, and quality standards.
• Familiarity with aerospace industry standards such as AS9100, NADCAP, and ISO 9001.

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to resolve complex manufacturing challenges.
• Effective communication skills for interacting with cross-functional teams and documenting technical information.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Willingness to find information even if not readily available.

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