Manufacturing Engineer - Effectors (Defense)

TL;DR

Manufacturing Engineer - Effectors (Defense): Transitioning low-cost interceptor systems from early concept development to full-rate production with an accent on DFMA, producibility engineering, and cost optimization. Focus on scaling hardware to high-rate production, implementing automated assembly, and resolving supply chain variability.

Location: Onsite in El Segundo, California, United States. U.S. Citizenship required

Salary: $110,000 - $160,000

Company

Defense company redefining modern defense with a multi-product portfolio powered by Coherent Distributed Networks to provide domain dominance.

What you will do

• Lead structured DFMA reviews to simplify part counts, fastener strategies, and assembly flow.
• Perform detailed producibility assessments, MRL evaluations, and yield modeling for hardware builds.
• Own manufacturing planning from prototype through full-rate production, including MBOM and work instructions.
• Collaborate with design, quality, and supply chain teams to support first article inspection and process validation.
• Implement automation, poka-yoke, and error-proofing strategies to scale production rates and capacity.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related STEM field.
• 5+ years of experience in aerospace, defense, automotive, or high-rate electromechanical production.
• Proven expertise in DFMA implementation and transitioning hardware from development into production.
• Working knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5), tolerance stack-up analysis, and root cause methodologies.
• U.S. Citizenship required; ability to obtain and maintain DoD clearance.

Nice to have

• Experience with missiles, interceptors, UAVs, or guided munition systems.
• Familiarity with automated assembly systems and robotic integration.
• Experience with SOLIDWORKS, PLM systems, and MES/ERP software.
• Experience conducting MRL assessments and scaling hardware to high-volume production.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits: Medical, dental, and vision 100% paid by the company.
• 401k with a 50% company match up to 6% of pay, plus FSA and HSA.
• Flexible perks including unlimited PTO, "No meeting Fridays", and free daily lunch.
• Financial incentives including generous pre-IPO stock option grants and relocation assistance.