Composites Manufacturing Engineer I

Firefly Aerospace•Briggs, TX

About The Position

Firefly Aerospace is seeking a motivated Manufacturing Engineer to join its Structures Department. The engineer will help develop and produce the company’s all-composite rocket and support full-rate production across current vehicles and programs. The role includes developing tooling and fixtures for development and production programs, improving and optimizing manufacturing processes, creating new processes, and providing technical expertise to enhance production capabilities. It calls for an engineering background, practical problem-solving skills, and the ability to learn quickly in a fast-paced team.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering field.
Experience in carbon fiber composite aerospace manufacturing.
At least 2 years of technical aptitude and the ability to quickly become an expert on complex hardware.
Proficiency in CAD software for developing tooling and fixturing designs.
Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
Demonstrated record of driving process improvements and delivering results in a fast-paced environment.
High initiative and self-motivation, with the ability to thrive in a dynamic and challenging work environment.
Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.

Nice To Haves

At least 2 years working in an aerospace manufacturing or engineering environment with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or a similar area.
Master’s degree.
Automated Fiber Placement experience.
Experience with quick-turn custom composite tooling design and fabrication.
Six Sigma or Lean manufacturing Black Belt certification.

Responsibilities

Lead the design and development of tooling, fixtures, and production equipment for aerospace composite components, selecting suitable materials and manufacturing processes to meet aerospace standards.
Evaluate and improve manufacturing processes, tooling, and fixtures to increase efficiency, quality, cost-effectiveness, and production capacity while reducing cycle times.
Own hardware development and production processes, ensure adherence to schedules, and drive continuous improvements.
Develop and implement tooling and fixturing solutions that improve manufacturing efficiency and quality.
Serve as the primary point of contact for part expertise, understanding hardware details and advising on fabrication.
Support manufacturing floor operations by working with production teams to identify and implement improvements.
Create detailed work instructions and procedures to standardize manufacturing and maintain consistent product quality.
Resolve nonconformance issues by assessing root causes and implementing corrective actions to restore compliance.
Work with design, manufacturing, quality, and other cross-functional teams to integrate products into the production process.
Identify production challenges and implement solutions to ensure timely delivery of high-quality aerospace components.
Implement and maintain quality-control measures that meet industry standards and customer expectations.
Identify cost-saving opportunities and participate in cost-reduction initiatives while maintaining product integrity.
Promote continuous improvement and Lean and Six Sigma principles throughout manufacturing.