Aerospace Manufacturing Engineer: Thermal Spray

GKN Aerospace; El Cajon (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

GKN Aerospace in California is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer I to ensure development efforts stay on track, initiate engineering tasks, and escalate roadblocks. You will track substantiation activities and report results for qualification testing and process substantiation.

The role focuses on leading thermal spray and related processes, coordinating with thermals spray engineers, and supporting production and development. Strong ownership and communication are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field (required).
• 2-5+ experience within aerospace or highly regulated industries.
• Experience with industry and OEM documentation and test plans.
• A well-organized individual with a high sense of ownership and urgency.
• A strong commitment and detailed eye for quality and accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Initiate, organize, and track substantiation test blades for EB weld, TIG weld, Cleanline, and Thermal Spray processes
• Own thermal spray powder development efforts to find and industrialize new and legacy powder spray parameters in ARBU buildings
• Collate and report powder development progress and setbacks.
• Collate laboratory test results for timely assessment and repeat attempts based on feedback from the thermal spray engineers.
• Keep and maintain well organized notes and tracking documents for consistent and up to date review by the leadership team.
• Keep up with daily management of tasks for immediate reporting of help needed and developing risks
• Aid the process engineers in creating and submitting qualification packets using the results from development efforts
• Assist other members of the engineering team to write and review operation sheets and data cards.
• In some cases, as needed, assist with and oversee development tests, ensuring accuracy and compliance with OEM publications.
• Develop and grow knowledge and expertise in the areas of plasma spray and HVOF processes
• Work closely with existing thermal spray engineering and shop floor personnel to support production and development needs
• Perform other tasks and duties as assigned by engineering management

Skills

Analytical skills

Root cause analysis

Leadership

Communication skills

Technical reporting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field

Job description

GKN Aerospace in California is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer I to ensure development efforts stay on track, initiate engineering tasks, and escalate roadblocks. You will track substantiation activities and report results for qualification testing and process substantiation.

The role focuses on leading thermal spray and related processes, coordinating with thermals spray engineers, and supporting production and development. Strong ownership and communication are essential for success.