Lead and support first-article builds in an early-stage, rapid-development environment, identifying and resolving issues in real time.
Own design, process, and capital equipment trades to unlock key production capabilities and support scalable manufacturing infrastructure.
Drive make-vs-buy decisions and collaborate closely with design engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain teams.
Provide hands-on support during build, integration, and test operations, ensuring technical issues are addressed quickly and effectively.
Support test readiness activities, including component and system pressurization, leak checks, actuator functional tests, and propulsion integration.
Drive continuous improvement across the production floor — including tooling, ERP/MES workflows, build documentation, and internal specifications.
- Champion a safety-first mindset, especially during hazardous or high-pressure operations.
- Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field.
3+ years of hands-on experience in hardware integration, assembly, or manufacturing of fluid, propulsion, or mechanical systems.
Familiarity with aerospace assembly best practices, including precision fitting, torque control, and contamination prevention.
Exposure to tolerance stack-up analysis, system P&ID development, actuator testing, leak checks, and valve assembly or test.
Strong understanding of GD&T, CAD modeling, and first-principles design and analysis.
Proven ability to communicate effectively across design, manufacturing, supply chain, and test organizations.
- Demonstrated initiative and ownership, with the ability to define and implement new processes from scratch.
- Preferred Skills and Experience
- Experience supporting new product introduction or flight hardware integration in an aerospace or defense environment.
Direct experience authoring and executing build work instructions and leading complex first-time build efforts.
Familiarity with pressurized systems, hazardous operations, or test campaigns involving cryogenic, pneumatic, or propellant systems.
Experience with welded tube, valve, or manifold assemblies (TIG, MIG, or laser welding).
Exposure to R&D or low-rate production environments, including vendor engagement, tooling development, and hands-on troubleshooting.
- Strong systems-level understanding of propulsion and fluid control architectures.
- Additional Requirements
- Must be willing to be hands-on in a manufacturing and test environment daily.
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and work safely around high-pressure systems and industrial equipment.
Extended or flexible hours may be required to support critical build and test milestones.
