Manufacturing Engineer, Composites

Austin, TX Area – Relocation Assistance Provided

The Company

Our client is a fast-growing commercial space startup providing comprehensive services, from launch to in-orbit operations. They have a proven track record of successful launch vehicles and spacecraft, and are actively developing their next-generation technologies to support government and commercial missions, from low Earth orbit to the Moon and beyond.

The Job

Our client is seeking a highly motivated and dedicated Manufacturing Engineer to join their Structures Department. As part of a small, fast-paced, and passionate team you will be instrumental developing the world’s largest liquid fueled all composite rocket and implementing full rate production on their current vehicle and programs.

You will be responsible for developing tooling and fixtures for development programs as well as production programs, driving continuous improvement initiatives, optimizing processes, developing brand new processes, and providing technical expertise to enhance production capabilities. This role will give you a wide variety of opportunities. This position requires a strong background in engineering, extensive experience with practical problem solving and the ability to learn quickly.

Functions

• Lead the design and development of tooling, fixtures, and production equipment necessary for the manufacturing of aerospace composite components. This includes selecting appropriate materials and manufacturing processes to meet specific aerospace industry standards.
• Continuously evaluate and enhance manufacturing processes, tooling, and fixtures to optimize efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. Implement improvements to increase production capacity and reduce cycle times.
• Take ownership of hardware development and production processes, ensuring adherence to schedules and driving continuous improvements.
• Develop and implement innovative solutions for tooling and fixturing to enhance manufacturing efficiency and quality.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all aspects related to part expertise, including understanding intricacies of the hardware and providing guidance on its fabrication.
• Support manufacturing floor operations by actively engaging with production teams to identify areas for improvement and implementing necessary changes.
• Create detailed work instructions and procedures to standardize manufacturing processes and ensure consistency in product quality.
• Lead the resolution of nonconformance issues by assessing root causes and implementing corrective actions to bring parts back into compliance.
• Demonstrate exceptional problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to addressing challenges in a fast-paced environment.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and quality, to ensure the seamless integration into the production process.
• Manage and oversee manufacturing programs, ensuring they meet quality, cost, and schedule requirements.
• Identify and address production challenges, implementing effective solutions to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality aerospace components.
• Implement and maintain rigorous quality control measures to meet industry standards and customer expectations.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and participate in cost reduction initiatives while maintaining product integrity.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement, driving Lean and Six Sigma principles throughout the manufacturing process.
• Mentor less experienced engineers

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related Engineering field.
• 5 years experience in carbon fiber composite aerospace manufacturing
• Strong technical aptitude and ability to quickly become an expert on complex hardware.
• Proficiency in CAD software for developing tooling and fixturing designs.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated track record of driving process improvements and delivering results in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of initiative, self-motivation, and ability to thrive in a dynamic and challenging work environment.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.

Preferred Skills

• 7+ years working in a aerospace manufacturing or engineering environment with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or similar area.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• Automated Fiber Placement experience
• Quick-turn custom composite tooling design and fabrication
• Six Sigma or Lean manufacturing Black Belt certification

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with the company is governed based on merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status