Composites Manufacturing Engineer III

Firefly Aerospace•Briggs, TX

About The Position

Firefly Aerospace is seeking a highly motivated Manufacturing Engineer to join its Structures Department. The engineer will help develop a large liquid-fueled all-composite rocket and support implementation of full-rate production across current vehicles and programs. The role involves developing tooling and fixtures for development and production programs, improving and optimizing manufacturing processes, creating new processes, and providing technical expertise to strengthen production capabilities. It requires a strong engineering background, practical problem-solving experience, and the ability to learn quickly.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering field.
10 years of experience in carbon fiber composite aerospace manufacturing.
Strong technical aptitude and ability to quickly become an expert on complex hardware.
Proficiency in CAD software for tooling and fixturing design.
Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
Demonstrated ability to drive process improvements and deliver 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 5 years working in an aerospace manufacturing or engineering environment with a bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or a similar field.
Master's degree.
Automated Fiber Placement experience.
Quick-turn custom composite tooling design and fabrication experience.
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 materials and processes that 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, maintain schedules, and drive continuous improvements.
Develop solutions for tooling and fixturing that improve manufacturing efficiency and quality.
Serve as the primary point of contact for part expertise, understanding hardware details and guiding fabrication.
Support manufacturing floor operations by working with production teams to identify and implement improvements.
Create work instructions and procedures to standardize processes and ensure consistent product quality.
Lead resolution of nonconformance issues by identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
Collaborate with design, manufacturing, quality, and other cross-functional teams to integrate work into production.
Manage manufacturing programs to meet quality, cost, and schedule requirements.
Identify production challenges and implement solutions to support 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 apply Lean and Six Sigma principles in manufacturing.
Mentor less experienced engineers.