SUMMARY: The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and optimization of manufacturing processes and systems for aircraft components and systems. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure the efficient and cost-effective production of high-quality aviation products, adhering to strict regulatory standards and OEM specifications.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Review and approve suppliers’ dimensional inspections plans.
- Coordinate with suppliers to ensure all required process approvals have been approved.
- Perform cost analysis and evaluate supplier cost proposals.
- Collaborate with suppliers to resolve delivery and supply issues caused by processing and manufacturing problems.
- Review parts across all outlines and categorize into part families.
- Perform make/buy analysis.
- Collaborate with design engineering teams to develop manufacturing processes for aircraft components and systems, ensuring manufacturability, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Utilize CAD/CAM software to create and optimize manufacturing layouts and tooling designs.
- Establish and implement quality control measures and inspection procedures to ensure compliance with OEM specifications, industry standards, and regulatory requirements (e.g., FAA, EASA). Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to address quality issues and non-conformities.
- Collaborate with external suppliers and subcontractors to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality materials, components, and subsystems. Evaluate supplier capabilities, conduct audits, and provide technical support to resolve manufacturing-related issues.
- Other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering, or related field.
- OR an additional 3 years of engineering experience in lieu of degree.
- 5 years of traditional manufacturing processes and techniques experience in the aviation industry, preferably with an OEM or aerospace manufacturer.
- Knowledge of special processes such as welding, brazing, heat treatment, anodizing, plating, passivation, etc.
- Knowledge and understanding of tooling and gaging control and traditional dimensional inspection methods.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and technologies relevant to aerospace component manufacturing (e.g., machining, composites, additive manufacturing).
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and statistical process control (SPC) techniques for process optimization and quality improvement.
- Excellent critical thinking skills, with the ability to analyze complex manufacturing issues and implement effective solutions.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and external stakeholders.
PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:
- 9+ years of engineering experience within the aviation industry.
- Knowledge and understanding of additive manufacturing a plus.
- Experience with advanced manufacturing technologies such as additive manufacturing (3D printing), automation, robotics, and digital manufacturing.
- Knowledge of aerospace industry standards and specifications for materials, processes, and product certification (e.g., MIL-SPEC, ASTM, SAE).
- Previous experience with ERP/MRP systems for production planning, inventory management, and resource optimization in aerospace manufacturing environments.
- Certification in Lean Six Sigma or other relevant quality management methodologies.
OTHER:
- The selected applicant will be subject to a background check and drug testing.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in manufacturing engineering or related field OR additional 3 years engineering experience in lieu of degree
- Minimum 5 years experience with traditional manufacturing processes and techniques in the aviation/aerospace industry (OEM or aerospace manufacturer)
- Knowledge of special processes: welding, brazing, heat treatment, anodizing, plating, passivation
- Knowledge and understanding of tooling and gaging control and traditional dimensional inspection methods
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and technologies relevant to aerospace component manufacturing (machining, composites, additive manufacturing)
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and statistical process control (SPC) techniques
- Ability to perform supplier dimensional inspection plan review, process approvals, supplier evaluations, audits, and root cause/corrective actions
- Ability to perform cost analysis, make/buy analysis, and collaborate with suppliers to resolve manufacturing and delivery issues
- Excellent critical thinking, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Subject to background check and drug testing
- 9+ years of engineering experience within the aviation industry
- Experience with additive manufacturing, automation, robotics, and digital manufacturing
- Knowledge of aerospace industry standards and specifications (MIL-SPEC, ASTM, SAE)
- Previous experience with ERP/MRP systems for production planning and inventory management
- Certification in Lean Six Sigma or other quality management methodologies
What We Do
VSE Aviation is a leading provider of aftermarket distribution and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for the global aviation market. It specializes in components and engine accessories for commercial, business, general aviation, military/defense, and rotorcraft customers. Through its integrated solutions and authorized OEM distribution, VSE Aviation focuses on enhancing the productivity and longevity of high-value, business-critical aviation assets.









