NPI Manufacturing Engineer

Draper•Cambridge, MA

1d•$75,000 - $156,000•Onsite

About The Position

At Draper, we apply cutting edge science and engineering to solve our nation’s most challenging problems in strategic systems, space systems, biotechnology, and electronic systems. Our Operations team plays a critical role in bringing these innovations from concept to reality. We are seeking an NPI Manufacturing Engineer to join our Manufacturing Operations organization. This role will serve as the bridge between Production, Supply Chain, and Program teams, ensuring operational excellence from proposal, development through LRIP (low-rate initial production).

Requirements

Understanding of NPI and transition-to-production practices.
Ability to work cross-functionally (manufacturing, supply chain, engineering, quality) with competing priorities.
Some experience developing and managing manufacturing plans, cost estimates, and schedules.
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or other relevant field.
3-5 years experience in Product Engineering or related.
Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of defense/aerospace hardware production is a plus.
Active Secret clearance is desired.

Responsibilities

Be part of Operations support for programs across the product lifecycle, with a focus on emerging programs.
Collaborate with Operations content in proposals, including cost, schedule, support Basis of Estimates for proposals and manufacturing approaches, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and alignment with New Product Introduction (NPI) requirements.
Collaborate between Operations and assigned programs, driving execution for all operations scope activities.
Support production readiness by leading manufacturing planning, bid & proposal inputs, PFMECA, design for manufacturing considerations, tooling/fixturing plans, limited life material plan, and Production Readiness Reviews (PRR).
Partner with supply chain teams to confirm procurement plans, document make/buy decisions and establish complete supplier Statements of Work (SOWs).
Evaluate supplier Manufacturing Readiness Package (MRP) to support make/buy decisions.
Drive continuous improvement into Operations activities, advancing efficiency, quality, and delivery performance.
Use Computer Aided Design (CAD) programs to create product concepts.
Gather materials or resources needed to design the product.
Test the product for usability and safety.
Oversee the manufacturing and production process to set standards.
Help define the approach to solve a particular problem and independently execute assignments.
Contribute high quality content for technical reports and presentations with minimal guidance.
Proactively identify needs and concerns associated with design and manufacturing decisions and communicate them to project leadership.