Engine Assembly Technician

Kratos Unmanned Systems; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is seeking an Engine Assembly Technician to build propulsion systems on site in Michigan.

You will follow engineering drawings, ensure safety, and maintain quality during all stages of assembly, testing readiness, and timely customer delivery. You will work with cross-functional teams in manufacturing, quality, and engineering, applying AS9100D standards and ITAR considerations while contributing to continuous improvements and traceability.

Qualifications

• Ability to safely troubleshoot, assemble, operate, and maintain mechanical equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and work instructions.
• Willingness to learn gas turbine engine operation, instrumentation, and production testing.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required certifications for operating production test equipment.

Responsibilities

• Assemble engines and major assemblies per released work instructions, drawings, and travelers.
• Perform mechanical assembly tasks including fitting, fastening, alignment, and torquing.
• Verify correct parts, revisions, and configurations prior to and during assembly.
• Complete build documentation accurately and in real time.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Read engineering drawings

Torque tools

AS9100D awareness

ITAR compliance

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree in Mechanical Technology

Tools

Torque tools

Hand tools

Measurement equipment

Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on uncrewed systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting‑edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost‑effective solutions to market.

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

The Engine Assembly Technician is responsible for assembling complete propulsion systems and major engine assemblies in accordance with engineering drawings, work instructions, and quality standards. This role ensures engines are built safely, accurately, and consistently, supporting production schedules, test readiness, and customer delivery commitments.

Working closely with Subassembly, Quality, Engineering, Test, and Supply Chain, the Engine Assembly Technician plays a critical role in first-time-through quality, configuration control, and traceability from build through test and delivery.

In addition to core assembly responsibilities, this role provides flexible shop-floor support across machining, logistics, and special projects as needed to keep operations moving.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Engine Assembly & Build Execution

• Assemble engines and major assemblies per released work instructions, drawings, and travelers
• Perform mechanical assembly tasks including fitting, fastening, alignment, and torquing
• Verify correct parts, revisions, and configurations prior to and during assembly
• Complete build documentation accurately and in real time

Quality, Compliance & Traceability

• Perform in-process checks to ensure workmanship and conformance
• Document build data, torque values, and inspection points as required
• Identify and report nonconformances promptly
• Maintain full traceability of parts, serial numbers, and configuration records

Test Readiness & Integration Support

• Prepare engines for test, including final inspections and readiness checks
• Support test setup, instrumentation, and post-test teardown as required
• Partner with Test Engineering to resolve build-related issues impacting test results

Engineering & Manufacturing Support

• Provide feedback to Engineering on assembly issues, fit, and manufacturability
• Support continuous improvement in assembly processes, tooling, and fixtures
• Assist with first article builds, prototypes, and development hardware
• Support production readiness for delivery milestones

Material, Tooling & Workstation Discipline

• Ensure required materials, tools, and fixtures are available and used correctly
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized work areas in accordance with 6S standards
• Verify calibration status of tools prior to use
• Follow material handling, FOD, and ESD procedures as applicable

Safety, Compliance & Standard Work

• Follow all safety procedures and PPE requirements
• Comply with AS9100D, QMS procedures, and standard work
• Support audits, inspections, and customer visits as required
• Reinforce a culture of safety, quality, and accountability

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

• No direct people management responsibility
• Executes engine assembly tasks under direction of Manufacturing leadership
• Influences quality and flow through disciplined execution

Keyword: engine assembly, mechanical aptitude, torque tools, aerospace manufacturing, propulsion systems, quality inspection, AS9100D, test readiness, engineering support, machining support, FOD control, 6S

Required Experience:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Required

• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on assembly experience
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and work instructions
• Familiarity with torque tools, hand tools, and basic measurement equipment
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Ability to manage confidential and export-controlled information (ITAR)

Preferred

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or propulsion system manufacturing
• Familiarity with AS9100D and quality documentation requirements
• Experience assembling complex mechanical systems

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude with the ability to safely troubleshoot, assemble, operate, and maintain mechanical equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, work instructions, and technical documentation.
• Willingness and ability to learn gas turbine engine operation, instrumentation, and production engine testing.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required certifications and qualifications for operating TDI production test equipment.

Preferred

• Associate degree in Mechanical Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Aviation Technology, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field.
• Previous experience performing engine testing, propulsion system testing, or operating mechanical test equipment.
• Experience in aerospace, defense, aviation, automotive, power generation, or other precision manufacturing environments.
• Experience with gas turbine engines, reciprocating engines, or other rotating machinery.
• Technical certification or vocational training in manufacturing, mechanics, aviation maintenance, or propulsion systems.
• Familiarity with instrumentation, data acquisition systems, sensors, and engine performance testing.
• Experience troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, fuel, lubrication, and control systems.
• Familiarity with AS9100D or other regulated manufacturing quality systems.
• FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Certification.
• Military propulsion, aviation maintenance, or engine test experience.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Manufacturing and assembly environments
• Standing, bending, and working in varied positions for extended periods
• Frequent handling of components and toolsExposure to noise, equipment, and manufacturing materials
• May be required to lift materials, components, or assemblies up to 50 lbs

OTHER DUTIES & FLEXIBLE SUPPORT RESPONSIBILITIES

Machining Support

• Assist with basic machining operations under direction (e.g., deburring, drilling, light milling/lathe work, fixture setup support).
• Support prototype, rework, and repair activities requiring in-house machining capability.

Shipping & Receiving Support

• Assist with packing, labeling, and preparing engines or components for shipment.
• Support receiving activities including part verification, staging, and material movement.
• Help maintain material traceability and documentation accuracy.

Non-Standard & Special Requests

• Support special builds, customer-specific requests, and non-routine engineering tasks.
• Assist with rework, recovery actions, and rapid-response efforts tied to quality issues or schedule recovery.
• Provide hands‑on support for development hardware, prototypes, and one‑off configurations.

These responsibilities ensure the Engine Assembly Technician contributes as a versatile execution resource, strengthening production continuity, engineering responsiveness, and quality recovery.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• None

THE ABOVE STATEMENTS ARE INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE GENERAL NATURE AND LEVEL OF WORK BEING PERFORMED BY INDIVIDUALSiASSIGNED TO THIS CLASSIFICATION. THEY ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE CONSTRUED AS AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF ALL RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES AND SKILLS REQUIRED OF PERSONNEL SO CLASSIFIED.

A REVIEW OF THIS CLASSIFICATION HAS EXCLUDED THE MARGINAL FUNCTIONS OF THE CLASSIFICATION THAT AREiINCIDENTAL TO THE PERFORMANCE OF FUNDAMENTAL JOB JUTIES. ALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE MODIFICATION TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THIS JOB PROFICIENTLY.i THE REQUIREMENTS LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE THE MINIMUM LEVELS OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES.

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From: Kratos Defense