Spirit Defense - Experienced Product Development & Research Engineer

Boeing; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 93,850 - 143,850; Full time

Job summary

Spirit AeroSystems, Inc. in Wichita (Spirit Defense) seeks an experienced engineer to conceive new aerostructure configurations, define manufacturing processes, and guide concepts from prototyping through readiness, working with cross-functional teams to meet program goals.

Requires ABET-accredited degree, 5+ years of related experience, strong communication, self-starter mindset, and the ability to obtain a U.S. Secret Clearance.

Qualifications

• ABET-accredited engineering degree required.
• At least 5 years of related work experience.
• Self-starter able to work with minimal supervision.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance.

Responsibilities

• Conceives new aerostructure configurations and manufacturing processes.
• Defines research programs to mature concepts and technologies.
• Understand full lifecycle requirements for product development.
• Define future factory visions and options.
• Define engineering requirements and upfront compliance approaches.
• Define test and certification plans.
• Assess product performance and manufacturing cost and viability.
• Perform design trade studies and resource planning.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance research plans.
• Document and communicate plans for future work packages.

Skills

Communication

Self-starter

Interpersonal relationships

Security clearance eligibility

Education

ABET-accredited engineering degree

Tools

C++

Python

Linux (Ubuntu)

ROS/ROS2

Office 365

Microsoft Project

Excel

PowerPoint

Word

Visio

Job description

This role is at Spirit AeroSystems, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, at Spirit’s Defense Business Unit (“Spirit Defense”). Spirit Defense is an independent supplier to the defense and space marketplace. Through innovative engineering and rapid prototyping excellence, Spirit Defense provides the capabilities, technologies and support customers need to succeed in their missions.

Position Responsibilities

• Conceives new product configurations, designs, manufacturing processesand advanced technologies for new aerostructures
• Defines and performs research programs to mature concepts, technologies and processes
• Understands full life cycle requirements for product development
• Defines future factory vision, concepts and options
• Defines engineering requirements and compliance approaches up front
• Defines test and certification plans
• Assesses or evaluates product performance and manufacturing cost and viability
• Performs trade studies for design alternatives
• Capable of defining necessary resources and development plans
• Works in concert with key functions to align and advance research plans
• Progresses concept through initial configuration, proto typing,risk reduction and mature technology readiness
• Documents and communicates plans and evaluations for future work packages, i.e. bid and proposal
• High energy, self-starter, with applicable knowledge of composite development techniques and manufacturing processes.
• Develops concepts through the initial configuration, prototyping, risk reduction, verification, and validation and is able to progress a project thru to completion. .
• Authors test reports and certification plans.
• Hands‑on experience with a variety of carbon fiber reinforced thermoset matrix composite materials manufacturing processes, including hand layup, compression molding, and vacuum bagging.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience)

• Bachelor’s degree from an ABET accredited program in Engineering or related field
• 5+ years of related work experience
• Must be a self‑starter and able to perform duties with minimum supervision
• Experience building interpersonal professional relationships
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience)

• 3D computer aided modeling
• Experience with robotics, automation, design, and various programming languages (C++, Python)
• Familiarity with Linux operating system I.E. Ubuntu
• Experience utilizing various Microsoft Office Suite applications, such as Office 365 and Microsoft Project, Power Point, Excel, Word, Teams and Visio
• Experience with aerostructure manufacturing
• Experience in cross‑functional project management
• Experience with Continuous Improvement/ Lean/ Industry 4.0/ World Class Manufacturing/ Future Factory/ Production System
• Knowledge of engineering, manufacturing and supply chain
• Knowledge of operational processes, flow and procedures
• Knowledge of financial processes and procedures
• Knowledge of Robotic Operating System (ROS and ROS2)
• Research experience

Union Representation

This is a union‑represented position.

Drug Free Workplace

We are a Drug Free Workplace where post‑offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Pay & Benefits

We strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

We also provide eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Summary Pay Range: $93,850‑$143,850

Kansas Tax Credit

Join Spirit AeroSystems’ Kansas team and you may be eligible for a $5,000 state of Kansas Aviation tax credit for up to five years. Click here for more information on the tax credit.

Security Clearance

This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Secret Clearance Post‑Start is required.

Visa Sponsorship

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Export Control Requirements

• 120.15 is required. “U.S. Person” includes U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.