Manufacturing Engineer III

Our aerospace client is a leading supplier of mission-critical RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave components and subsystems for defense, aerospace, and space platforms. From deep-space satellite payloads to electronic warfare systems and secure communications, our Microwave Solutions division plays a vital role in powering innovation where performance matters most.

We are seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Engineer III to join our dynamic team in Phoenix, AZ. In this role, you will drive manufacturing excellence for complex RF and microwave products in a high-mix, low-volume environment supporting next-generation defense & space technologies.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead cross-functional initiatives focused on manufacturing process optimization, cost reduction, and product improvement across our advanced RF/microwave product lines

• Analyze and design manufacturing methods, process flows, tooling, and layout to support efficient production of highly specialized hardware

• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions for yield, quality, and assembly issues in high-reliability microwave product manufacturing

• Participate in DFM reviews for new designs and design changes; provide technical feedback to improve manufacturability and throughput

• Drive improvements in manufacturability for RF/microwave integrated assemblies (IMAs), frequency control devices, up/down converters, filters, and synthesizers

• Develop and maintain detailed manufacturing instructions, routings, and procedures aligned with quality and regulatory requirements

• Conduct cost analysis, ROI calculations, and make/buy decisions to support capital investments and business case evaluations

• Serve as a key contributor in cross-functional Material Review Board (MRB) and new product introduction (NPI) teams

What You’ll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing Engineering or related field

• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing engineering role within a high-reliability electronics or RF/microwave production environment

• Knowledge of manufacturing methods for RF electronics, including soldering, mechanical assembly, bonding, and environmental testing

• Strong working knowledge of Lean principles, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement tools (e.g., 5 Why, Fishbone, PFMEA)

• Experience developing and tracking manufacturing KPIs, creating work instructions, and supporting regulated production (e.g., AS9100, MIL-STD)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a defense, aerospace, or regulated electronics manufacturing environment

• Prior work with RF/microwave systems or components a significant plus

• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems, CAD tools, and process mapping platforms

• Exposure to continuous improvement frameworks

U.S. Citizenship and eligibility for a U.S. Secret Clearance will be a requirement for this position.