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Manufacturing Engineer
Chantilly, VA
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Manufacturing Engineer – Defense & Aerospace

6 month contract to start with extension/conversion possible

Pay: $45 to 50/hr


Position Summary

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and improving manufacturing processes to support the efficient and cost-effective production of defense and aerospace products. This role partners cross-functionally with design, production, quality, and supply chain teams to ensure manufacturability, drive continuous improvement, and deliver high-quality, reliable products.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement manufacturing processes, work instructions, and procedures aligned with product specifications and quality standards
  • Collaborate with design engineering to ensure producibility and manufacturability of new and existing products
  • Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks and implement solutions to improve throughput and reduce cycle times
  • Evaluate, select, and integrate manufacturing equipment and technologies into production environments
  • Lead and support Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives to drive cost reduction, waste elimination, and efficiency improvements
  • Partner with quality teams to establish inspection and testing methods; resolve production-related quality issues
  • Collaborate with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of materials and evaluate supplier performance
  • Maintain accurate documentation including process specs, SOPs, and engineering change orders
  • Track and report on KPIs, production metrics, and continuous improvement efforts
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards, industry regulations, and internal policies
  • Identify and mitigate risks to maintain a safe and efficient work environment


Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field
  • Experience in a manufacturing engineering role (defense or aerospace environment preferred)
  • Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes including CNC machining, assembly, testing, and/or additive manufacturing
  • Experience analyzing production data and implementing process improvements
  • Familiarity with CAD/CAM tools for process development
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced environment


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in defense or aerospace manufacturing environments
  • Knowledge of industry standards such as AS9100, ITAR, and NADCAP
  • Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma certification or hands-on experience
  • Experience with complex assemblies or high-reliability products


Core Competencies

  • Process optimization and continuous improvement
  • Data-driven decision making
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Attention to detail and quality focus
  • Adaptability in dynamic production environments

Work Environment

  • Fast-paced manufacturing setting supporting defense and aerospace production
  • Regular interaction with production floor, engineering teams, and suppliers


EOE (including Disability/Veterans)


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