Prototype & Production Lab Manager (Navy Systems)

Arcfield•Middletown, RI

13d

About The Position

Arcfield is seeking a highly skilled and versatile Prototype & Production Lab Manager to run a specialized prototype and low-volume production lab supporting a U.S. Navy Engineering Service Contract. The role combines daily lab operations and workflow management with technical subject matter expertise that bridges engineering design and physical production, as well as hands-on fabrication, assembly, and testing. The manager reviews engineering designs for producibility, ruggedization for naval applications, and manufacturing optimization. The position requires mechanical expertise, practical electrical and RF skills, and a deep understanding of manufacturing processes. The manager works with engineering teams to turn designs and technical data packages into production-ready steps, and builds and validates prototype and production assemblies. The projected compensation range is $101,651.11–$176,751.55. Final compensation may vary based on factors including contract wage determination, experience, skills, location, education, certifications, and federal contract labor categories. Benefits may include health and life insurance, paid time off, holiday pay, short- and long-term disability, retirement and savings, learning and development opportunities, wellness programs, and optional benefit elections, depending on position.

Requirements

At least 7 years of experience in prototyping, manufacturing engineering, or a highly technical lab management role; defense or aerospace experience is preferred.
Extensive knowledge of mechanical assembly, fabrication processes, and material sciences, including material selection for ruggedized applications.
Ability to read, interpret, and critique complex engineering drawings, schematics, and Technical Data Packages (TDPs).
Demonstrated expertise in custom cable and wire-harness building, routing, and precision soldering.
Strong working knowledge of RF principles and practical experience testing RF systems.
Hands-on proficiency using a FieldFox analyzer (network/spectrum analyzer) for RF measurements.
Understanding of how RF systems are deployed and used within U.S. Navy platforms and environments.
Exceptional critical-thinking and problem-solving skills to assess the gap between engineering designs and practical buildability.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
The posting lists experience ranges by degree: BS 10–12 years, MS 8–10 years, and PhD 5–7 years.

Nice To Haves

Active DoD security clearance (Secret or higher).
Prior military service in a technical, RF, or electronics rating, such as Navy ET, FC, CTT, or AT, or extensive defense-contractor experience.
Certifications in soldering and cable assembly, such as IPC J-STD-001 or IPC/WHMA-A-620.
Experience with CAD software such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD to view and manipulate models.

Responsibilities

Manage incoming lab work requests and prioritize tasks to meet project deadlines.
Oversee Bill of Materials (BOM) management and ensure components, hardware, and materials are sourced and ordered for builds.
Maintain lab equipment, tools, and inventory to support a safe and efficient working environment.
Translate engineering drawings into actionable manufacturing steps.
Review Technical Data Packages (TDPs) for design weaknesses, missing information, and manufacturing hurdles before production.
Recommend material substitutions, structural enhancements, and design adjustments for prototypes intended for harsh Navy environments.
Provide engineering feedback on tolerances, machining, and assembly feasibility.
Perform mechanical assembly and prototype fabrication using complex schematics and mechanical drawings.
Build, route, and terminate custom electrical cables and wire harnesses to military or industry standards.
Solder circuit boards, connectors, and internal wiring.
Use Keysight FieldFox handheld analyzers and similar equipment to test, troubleshoot, and validate RF components and systems.
Evaluate how RF components integrate and perform within Navy communication, radar, and electronic warfare systems.
Verify impedance matching, insertion loss, VSWR, and overall RF system integrity on completed assemblies.