Manufacturing Engineer - Level 3

Location:

United States of America, California, Irvine

The Manufacturing Engineer III is responsible for executing and optimizing manufacturing processes to support the production of precision aerospace components. This role focuses on applying engineering principles to improve quality, throughput, and cost efficiency while ensuring compliance with regulatory and customer requirements. The engineer works with cross‑functional teams to resolve production challenges, implement process improvements, and support operational excellence initiatives.

• Provide technical support and direction for the manufacturing of precision aerospace components, including CNC machining, assembly, and special processes.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve manufacturing processes to achieve quality, delivery, and cost targets.
• Analyze manufacturing workflows, identify inefficiencies, and implement corrective actions using root cause analysis tools (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone, FMEA).
• Support CNC programming improvements, tooling strategies, and process optimization initiatives.
• Interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and change orders to ensure compliance throughout production.
• Forecast resource requirements (labor, tools, machines) and coordinate activities to meet production schedules.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance to establish inspection methods, test procedures, and ensure adherence to AS9100 and aerospace quality standards.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean manufacturing, 5S, visual controls, and standard work development.
• Support cost reduction initiatives by analyzing material usage, cycle times, and process efficiency.
• Ensure adherence to safety, health, and environmental policies and procedures in all manufacturing activities.
• Contribute to new product introduction (NPI) efforts, including process planning, tooling selection, and documentation development.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or Materials Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• 5‑8 years of relevant manufacturing engineering experience, preferably in aerospace or precision machining environments.
• Working knowledge of CNC machining, tooling, fixtures, and process development.
• Understanding of aerospace standards, drawings, GD&T, and configuration control.
• Experience with Lean manufacturing principles (5S, Kaizen, Standard Work, waste reduction).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with experience in root cause analysis.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks in a fast‑paced environment.
• Effective communicator capable of working across engineering, quality, and production teams.

• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing documentation.
• Familiarity with statistical process control (SPC) and quality tools.
• Exposure to automation, additive manufacturing, or advanced manufacturing technologies.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

This position requires use of information or access to production processes subject to national security controls under U.S. export control laws and regulations (including, but not limited to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR)). To comply with those regulations, this position may require applicants to be U.S. Persons (i.e., U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or eligible to obtain the required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Pay Range: $106,000 – $159,000 USD (Salaried). Eligible to participate in the Company’s Quarterly Cash Bonus Plan. Employees receive 120 hours paid time off per year, 10 paid holidays, medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, and a 401(k) plan.