Manufacturing Engineer

Natilus•San Diego, CA

About The Position

Natilus is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to join its engineering team in San Diego, California. The role develops and implements manufacturing processes, supports aircraft fabrication and assembly, and helps ensure engineering designs can be efficiently translated into high-quality, flight-ready hardware. The engineer works closely with design engineers, technicians, suppliers, and cross-functional teams to develop manufacturing solutions for the development and production of Natilus’s blended-wing-body aircraft. This hands-on position contributes directly to aircraft development, establishes manufacturing processes, and helps build the foundation for future production operations. The work also supports the transition from prototype development to repeatable manufacturing and production processes.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
At least 3 years of manufacturing engineering experience in the aerospace or aviation industry.
Experience developing manufacturing processes, assembly procedures, and production documentation.
Experience with composite structures, metallic aircraft structures, or both.
Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing standards and quality systems, including AS9100.
Experience designing manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and assembly aids.
Proficiency with CAD software such as Siemens NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks.
Strong understanding of mechanical fabrication, machining, assembly techniques, and manufacturing tolerances.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications.
Familiarity with GD&T and engineering change processes.
Experience working collaboratively with design engineers, manufacturing technicians, and suppliers.
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently in a fast-paced engineering environment.
Willingness to take a hands-on approach to manufacturing challenges and aircraft development.

Nice To Haves

Experience in aircraft manufacturing, prototype development, or experimental aircraft programs.
Experience supporting aircraft integration, ground testing, or flight-test preparation.
Experience establishing manufacturing processes within an early-stage aerospace or hardware development company.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement manufacturing processes for aircraft structures, mechanical systems, and assemblies.
Collaborate with design engineering teams to ensure designs are manufacturable, cost-effective, and suitable for assembly and integration.
Develop manufacturing plans, work instructions, assembly procedures, and production documentation.
Support prototype fabrication, aircraft assembly, integration, and testing activities.
Design and develop manufacturing tooling, fixtures, jigs, and assembly aids.
Identify and resolve manufacturing challenges related to materials, tolerances, fabrication methods, and assembly processes.
Work with suppliers and vendors to evaluate manufacturing capabilities, resolve technical issues, and ensure component quality.
Support inspection, quality control, and verification activities to ensure compliance with engineering requirements.
Participate in design reviews and provide manufacturing input throughout the product development lifecycle.
Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing efficiency, reduce costs, and streamline production processes.
Support the transition from prototype development to repeatable manufacturing and production processes.
Work directly with engineering and technical teams to troubleshoot manufacturing and assembly issues.