Manufacturing Engineer

Sonaca North America; Vista (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 92,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) retirement savings plan with company match

Paid holidays

Paid time off

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Sonaca North America is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer in Vista, California. The successful candidate will develop technical manufacturing solutions and lead new product introduction activities while collaborating with engineering, operations, and project management.

Candidates should have a 4‑year degree in Engineering and a minimum of 4 years of related experience. The position offers an annual salary range of $85,000 to $92,000 and a variety of benefits including medical, dental, and retirement plans.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years of related experience in manufacturing engineering.
• Knowledge of aerospace industry preferred.
• Working knowledge of 3D CAD systems is required.

Responsibilities

• Develop technical manufacturing solutions to improve processes.
• Define manufacturing process for sheet metal parts.
• Lead new product introduction activities.

Skills

Manufacturing processes

3D CAD systems

Project management

Education

4‑year degree in Engineering

Tools

CATIA v5

Job description

WHO ARE WE

Sonaca North America is driven by a passion for innovation and a commitment to excellence. As a leading provider of aerospace and defense solutions, we are dedicated to making air and space travel safe and sustainable. We have 11 locations across North America and our engineering expertise and operational excellence set us apart from the competition. Since the beginning in 1948, we have a proven track record of delivering high‑quality products and services that are reliable, safe, and efficient. Our team of experts stays ahead of the curve using the latest technologies and processes to ensure the best possible solutions to our customers.

Job Description

Position Summary: We are currently seeking a Manufacturing Engineer. With minimal supervision, the Manufacturing Engineer will work with engineering, operations, quality, and project management to develop technical manufacturing solutions for new and existing programs.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Develop technical manufacturing solutions to improve processes, tooling and equipment.
• Define manufacturing process for Sheet metal and Extrusion Aluminum parts.
• Develop and implement multi‑step process of forming Fabrication including Heat treatment.
• Perform research to design and develop manufacturing processes utilizing Swing Arm (V‑Press), End Pull (Longitudinal), and Side Pull (Transverse) stretch forming presses based on component geometry and material type.
• Conduct in‑depth process monitoring (e.g., tonnage, elongation, strain mapping) to achieve optimal material properties and minimize defects.
• Review product specifications, drawings, and Bills of Material (BOMs) for optimal manufacturability and cost‑effective fabrication using the appropriate forming press type.
• Lead new product introduction (NPI) activities, focusing on forming fabrication processes from prototype to full‑rate production.
• Analyze and plan workforce utilization, space requirements, workflow, and layout.
• Provide input to estimate project costs, tooling and return on investment (ROI).
• Work with engineering, operations and project management concerning tool design.
• Consult with vendors to determine product specification and arrange for purchase of industrial products.
• Perform product/process analysis for cost reduction, quality improvement and efficiency.
• Work with management, engineering, estimating, and other staff regarding manufacturing capabilities, production schedules and other considerations regarding production processes.
• Coordinate and direct process improvement teams.
• Assist with resolution of customer, technical and quality issues.
• Coordinate teams to complete tasks.
• Collect, analyze, interpret and present technical and business information.
• Successfully work in a team‑based environment.
• Work in a high‑stress and constantly changing environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Travel

Travel Required: Yes, 15% of time traveling.

Education and Experience

• 4‑year degree in Engineering.
• Minimum 4 years of related experience.
• Knowledge of Aerospace industry preferred.
• Working knowledge of 3D CAD systems required. CATIA v5 preferred.
• Experience in sheet metal fabrication desired.
• Assembly engineering experience desired.
• Knowledge of Control Systems.
• Knowledge of hydraulic systems.
• Deep knowledge of stretch forming principles, material behavior (elasticity, plasticity) and advanced compensation techniques for spring‑back in high‑strength aluminum alloys.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
• Exposure to noise levels ranging from quiet to extremely loud.
• Required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when working on the manufacturing floor.
• May occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Annual Pay Range

$85,000 – $92,000.

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.
• Competitive wages.
• Paid holidays.
• Paid time off.
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and accidental insurance.
• Short‑term disability.
• Long‑term disability.
• Employee assistance plan.
• Wellness program.
• Tuition assistance subject to eligibility, terms, and conditions.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Sonaca North America is an equal employment opportunity employer. Sonaca North America provides access and opportunities to those with disabilities and disabled veterans. If an applicant is unable to fully access the online application system, the company will provide a reasonable accommodation. Sonaca North America is an equal employment opportunity, disability, veterans employer. Sonaca North America is an E‑Verify employer.