About the Job

Manufacturing EngineerRock West Composites is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to support the development and production of high-performance composite structures for DoD, space, and commercial applications.This role is responsible for defining and executing manufacturing processes from prototype through production, ensuring products meet requirements for quality, cost, and performance. You'll work closely with Engineering, Program Management, and Production teams to solve complex technical challenges and drive continuous improvement.This is a hands-on role in a small batch, R&D-focused environment, ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced settings and enjoys taking ownership of projects from start to finish.What You'll OwnManufacturing process development from concept through productionCreation and control of manufacturing documentation (MBOMs, work instructions, travelers, process specs)Product quality, manufacturability, and process efficiencyResolution of technical issues on the shop floorContinuous improvement initiatives focused on cost, cycle time, and qualityKey ResponsibilitiesManufacturing Process DevelopmentDevelop and implement manufacturing methods for new and existing productsDefine process flows, material selections, tooling, and fabrication methodsSupport product development from prototype through full productionDocumentation & Process ControlCreate and maintain MBOMs, EBOMs, work instructions, travelers, and process specificationsEnsure manufacturing documentation is accurate, controlled, and production-readySupport engineering change implementation and configuration controlProduction & Technical SupportProvide daily support to manufacturing and program teamsTroubleshoot and resolve technical issues on the shop floorPerform redlines and implement engineering changes to in-process partsAddress MRB conditions and implement corrective actionsContinuous ImprovementIdentify and implement process improvements to reduce cost, improve quality, and shorten cycle timesAnalyze production data to drive efficiency and performance improvementsSupport development of scalable and repeatable manufacturing processesCross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with Engineering, Program Management, Quality, and Supply ChainInterface with customers and suppliers to resolve technical issuesSupport bids and proposals with manufacturing input, cost estimates, and feasibilityTraining & MentorshipSupport training initiatives and help develop manufacturing capabilitiesMentor junior team members as neededWhat You BringExperience5+ years of Manufacturing Engineering experience (composites preferred)Experience supporting products from development through productionStrong understanding of manufacturing processes, tooling, and production workflowsTechnical ExpertiseExperience with composite manufacturing processes (wet layup, autoclave, RTM, compression molding)Familiarity with AS9100 or similar quality systemsExperience with inspection methods and data acquisition systemsSkills & CapabilitiesStrong problem-solving and analytical skillsAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentHigh attention to detail and strong organizational skillsEffective communication across technical and non-technical teamsTools & SystemsProficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project)Experience with CAD/CAM (SolidWorks preferred)Strong understanding of blueprint reading and GD&TAdditional RequirementsMust be a U.S. Person (due to ITAR requirements)Ability to pass background check and drug screeningCompensation & BenefitsSalary Range: $120,000 – $150,000100% Employer-Paid Medical & DentalAnnual Bonus Program401(k) with 5% MatchEmployee Stock Option Program9/80 Work Schedule (every other Friday off)8 Paid Holidays + Generous PTO$2,500 Tuition ReimbursementWhy Rock West Composites:At Rock West Composites, you'll work on cutting-edge composite structures supporting aerospace, space, and defense programs. This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of manufacturing processes from prototype through production, solving complex technical challenges in a hands-on, R&D-driven environment. Your work will have a direct impact on product performance, quality, and delivery.We value engineers who are practical, collaborative, and driven to improve processes and we provide an environment where those contributions are visible and valued.Equal Opportunity EmployerRock West Composites is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the company to provide equal opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, ancestry, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, transitioning status, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, medical condition, mental disability, physical disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law. EEO is the law. We also prohibit compensation discrimination under all applicable laws. Certain positions require meeting the U.S. Person definition in 22 CFR 120.62.ITAR RequirementTo conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder) as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the company's immigration sponsorship now or in the future. Rock West Composites will not offer immigration sponsorship for this position. Rock West Composites will not seek an export authorization for this role. Rock West Composites maintains a Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace. Depending on state law and the nature of the position, candidates who receive a conditional offer of employment may be required to complete a drug screening. Rock West Composites may also conduct drug and alcohol testing based on reasonable suspicion, post-incident, or for safety-sensitive positions as permitted by law.Accommodation NoticeIf you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact 858-537-6260.