The Manufacturing Engineering Manager – Aerospace Mechanical Parts is responsible for leading the planning, development, and optimization of manufacturing processes for precision aerospace components including machined parts, structural elements, housings, and mechanical assemblies. This role ensures high-quality, cost-effective production through strong engineering fundamentals, process control, and continuous improvement. The manager oversees a team of manufacturing engineers and works closely with design, quality, production, and supply chain to transition designs into manufacturable and repeatable products that meet performance and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the development and optimization of manufacturing processes for aerospace mechanical parts, including metallic and composite components
Oversee process planning, work instructions, tooling design, and shop floor integration for machining, forming, joining, and assembly operations
Manage the team responsible for creating CNC programs, fixture/tooling designs, and fabrication methods for high-complexity aerospace parts
Drive Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) reviews to influence early-stage product development
Ensure compliance with aerospace quality standards (AS9100, NADCAP) and regulatory requirements (FAA, DoD, EASA, etc.)
Implement and maintain manufacturing documentation (process flows, travelers, control plans, standard work)
Lead root cause analysis and corrective action initiatives related to yield, scrap, rework, or nonconformance
Manage manufacturing readiness assessments and NPI (New Product Introduction) process gates from prototyping through full-rate production
Collaborate with production, quality, and supply chain teams to resolve technical issues and improve throughput
Champion Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement efforts across operations
Support supplier manufacturing reviews and technical assessments as needed for outsourced parts or assemblies
Recruit, train, and mentor manufacturing engineers; foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and quality
Key Focus Areas:
Manufacturing engineering leadership for precision aerospace mechanical components
CNC machining, metallic fabrication, mechanical assembly, and production planning
Process development, validation, and continuous improvement
DFM/DFA collaboration with design engineering and cross-functional partners
Compliance with aerospace manufacturing standards and process control
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field required
Master’s degree in Engineering Management or Industrial Engineering preferred
Certifications:
Lean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt preferred
PMP, CMfgE (Certified Manufacturing Engineer), or ASQ certifications a plus
Experience:
10–15+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering roles within aerospace or high-precision mechanical production
At least 5 years in a leadership/management capacity overseeing manufacturing engineering teams or projects
Deep knowledge of aerospace mechanical hardware including tight-tolerance machined parts, metallic structures, and fastened or bonded assemblies
Proven track record of implementing successful process improvements and launching new products into production
Experience with NADCAP processes (e.g., heat treat, NDT, chemical processing) is highly desirable
Technical Skills:
Proficient in CAD/CAM systems (e.g., CATIA, NX, Mastercam), and manufacturing ERP/MES systems
Familiarity with GD&T (ASME Y14.5), CNC programming, toolpath optimization, and fixture design
Knowledge of aerospace materials (aluminum, titanium, Inconel, composites) and associated manufacturing challenges
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with data-driven decision making
Soft Skills:
Strategic thinker with hands-on leadership style and attention to detail
Strong team builder and communicator with the ability to influence across functions
Skilled in balancing quality, cost, and delivery in a fast-paced engineering/manufacturing environment
Adaptable and proactive in addressing dynamic production challenges