Manufacturing Engineering Specialist (Electronics / PCBA)

L3HHCM20•Mason, OH

12d

About The Position

We're seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to join our electronics manufacturing team and own critical PCBA/SMT processes that directly impact mission success. You'll be the technical expert for vapor phase soldering and other advanced electronics assembly processes, ensuring the quality, reliability, and manufacturability of space-grade hardware. This is a high-impact role where your decisions affect hardware that operates in the harshest environment imaginable: space. You'll work with a highly skilled team of engineers and technicians, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and lead the introduction of cutting-edge automation and AI-enabled manufacturing technologies. Why this role matters: The success of our space missions depends on the quality and reliability of the electronics you produce. If you thrive on solving complex technical problems, love hands-on engineering, and want to see your work launch into space, this is your opportunity.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field
3+ years of hands-on experience in electronics manufacturing (PCBA/SMT processes)
Demonstrated experience with SMT processes: reflow soldering, wave soldering, or vapor phase soldering
Strong problem-solving skills with a bias toward action - you don't stop at the first roadblock
Excellent written and verbal communication skills - you can explain complex technical concepts clearly
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment while also driving independent initiatives
U.S. Citizenship

Nice To Haves

Master's degree with relevant internship/research experience in electronics manufacturing
Working knowledge of IPC standards (IPC-A-610, J-STD-001, IPC-A-600)
Experience with new product introduction (NPI) or new technology introduction
Familiarity with design for manufacturability (DFM) principles.
Experience with automation, robotics, or AI-enabled manufacturing processes
Proficiency with PLM systems (Teamcenter, or similar)
Lean Six Sigma training or certification
Experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability electronics manufacturing
Comfort presenting technical information to leadership and cross-functional teams

Responsibilities

Serve as the technical authority for vapor phase soldering and other PCBA/SMT processes (reflow, wave solder, selective solder)
Develop, validate, and optimize manufacturing processes to meet stringent aerospace quality standards (IPC-A-610, J-STD-001)
Troubleshoot complex production issues and implement root cause corrective actions
Ensure design for manufacturability (DFM) principles are integrated from concept through production
Lead automation projects to improve efficiency and reduce labor-intensive manual processes
Evaluate and implement AI-enabled process improvements (e.g., automated inspection, predictive maintenance)
Collaborate with equipment vendors to integrate new manufacturing capabilities
Champion continuous improvement initiatives using Lean/Six Sigma methodologies
Partner with design engineers, quality, production, and supply chain to resolve manufacturing challenges
Interface with Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) to ensure seamless communication and execution
Create and maintain manufacturing documentation (work instructions, process specifications, training materials)
Train and mentor production technicians on advanced assembly techniques
Ensure on-time delivery of space-grade electronics for Artemis, ISS, Mars, and satellite communication programs.
Participate in design reviews and provide manufacturing feasibility assessments
Support new product introduction (NPI) from prototype through full-rate production
Maintain compliance with aerospace quality standards and customer requirements