Manufacturing Engineer
Herndon, Virginia
Full time |

Our client is seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Engineer with experience in space systems and strong capabilities across prototype, LRIP, and low-volume manufacturing.


This role requires expertise in assembly, integration, and test (AIT), along with the ability to work closely with IPT leads to define process flows, author work instructions, and develop tooling and support equipment.
Familiarity with Creo and Costpoint is required.


Key Responsibilities

  • Create end-to-end manufacturing process flows for prototype and LRIP builds.
  • Develop clear, detailed work instructions including tooling, inspection points, and safety notes.
  • Design or specify tooling, fixtures, and support equipment.
  • Align manufacturing processes with assembly, integration, and test (AIT) sequences.
  • Support mechanical and electrical assembly, integration, and subsystem testing.
  • Partner with IPT leads across engineering, quality, test, and supply chain.
  • Provide hands-on support during first article builds and troubleshooting.
  • Support test setup development and ground support equipment definition.
  • Process MRB/NCR activities and drive RCCA outcomes.
  • Utilize Costpoint for routings, work orders, BOM validation, and cost tracking.



Requirements

Required Qualifications

  • BS in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
  • 5–10+ years of manufacturing engineering experience.
  • Space hardware or high-reliability aerospace/defense manufacturing experience.
  • Strong understanding of prototype, LRIP, and low-volume production.
  • Hands-on experience with assembly, integration, and test (AIT).
  • Ability to author high-quality work instructions.
  • Familiarity with Creo (CAD) and Costpoint (ERP).
  • Experience with MRB, NCR, and RCCA.
  • Preferred Qualifications
  • Precision assembly experience (harnessing, avionics, propulsion components).
  • Knowledge of AS9100, ISO9001, configuration management.
  • Familiarity with environmental testing or functional test processes.
  • Exposure to PLM systems and digital thread workflows.
  • Basic GD&T and tolerance analysis skills.

Competencies

  • Hands-on execution on the production floor.
  • Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration.
  • Systems thinking and ability to balance cost, quality, and schedule.
  • Ownership, urgency, and disciplined follow-through.


Benefits

The company provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; disability, life insurance, and AD&D; a 401(k) plan with a company match and immediate vesting; Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts; an Employee Assistance Program; education assistance; paid time off and holidays; flexible work schedules; and a 9/8/80 alternate workweek option.


Our client is a recognized leader in advanced laser, lidar, and laser‑communication technologies, delivering high‑performance electro‑optical solutions for defense, space, and aerospace missions. The organization is known for its innovation, technical excellence, and customer‑focused culture, supported by a collaborative and flexible work environment.

They foster a progressive learning culture that values curiosity, encourages professional challenge, and supports long‑term growth. Employees enjoy a competitive compensation package, strong benefits, and the opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge programs with real mission impact.

Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual merit, skills, and experience. Our client does not engage in nor permits any discrimination in the workplace.