Manufacturing Engineer II

Kokopelli Capital; Durango (CO); On-site; USD 84,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock option plan

Health benefits

401(k) with company match

Job summary

Agile Space Industries is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer II to drive high-quality hardware through design, prototyping, development, and production inDurango, CO. This role focuses on shaping and optimizing manufacturing processes for aerospace components while collaborating with design, operations, and QA teams.

Ideal candidates have 2–5 years in manufacturing engineering, CAD experience (SolidWorks/CATIA), and familiarity with GD&T, ERP/MRP, and programming (C/C++, Python).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field required or significant work experience considered in lieu of degree.
• 2-5 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process improvement, or related technical roles are preferred.
• Proven ability to apply engineering principles and decision‑making to resolve complex manufacturing challenges.
• Strong proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA) and other engineering tools used for design, analysis, and optimization.
• Hands‑on experience in manufacturing environments and ability to manage both technical and logistical aspects of production.
• Proven track record in continuous process improvement and ability to drive manufacturing efficiencies.
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with cross‑functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the development, implementation, and optimization of manufacturing processes for aerospace components, ensuring quality and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with design engineering, operations, and quality assurance to translate designs into manufacturable products for full-scale production.
• Conduct process capability assessments, root cause analysis, and risk evaluations to identify improvement opportunities and cost savings.
• Develop and update manufacturing documentation, including process instructions and work instructions.
• Use data-driven methodologies to monitor manufacturing performance and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Lead initiatives related to automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Provide mentorship to junior engineers and technicians to foster continuous learning.
• Ensure cross‑team collaboration and involve technicians and assembly teams in process design and improvement.

Skills

Process improvement

Cross-functional collaboration

Data analysis

Strong communication

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

ERP/MRP

CAM software

Python

C/C++

Job description

Agile Space Industries is a rapidly growing supplier of propulsion hardware and engineering services for the space industry. Headquartered in Durango, Colorado, with expanding operations in and Tulsa, Oklahoma, and upcoming growth in Seattle, Washington, Agile has achieved more than 40% year-over-year growth for the past three years, and our momentum continues to accelerate.

At Agile, we design, build, and test in-space propulsion systems that give spacecraft the ability to maneuver with precision, reliability, and purpose. Our technologies play a critical role in missions that range from lunar landings and resource utilization to national defense, human exploration, and commercial space transport.

We are seeking bold and driven individuals who thrive in a hands-on, fast-moving environment and want to help write the next chapter of space history as part of a close-knit, innovative team. You will take on a demanding and rewarding role at Agile, directly shaping the future of in-space propulsion. As an integral contributor during our growth stage, you will be eligible to participate in our stock option plan, giving you the opportunity to share in the long-term value you help create. All stock grants are subject to executive review and approval in accordance with the Company’s equity plan.

Position overview

Agile is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer II to join our team and drive the delivery of high-quality hardware through design, prototyping, development, and production. This role is for individuals with a solid background in engineering and manufacturing, offering opportunities to shape and optimize processes in aerospace component production. While aerospace experience is beneficial, it is not a requirement.

This position is well-suited for professionals with a few years of hands‑on experience in manufacturing engineering or those who have demonstrated leadership in managing manufacturing processes. Successful candidates may come from various backgrounds, such as engineering, process optimization, or leadership roles in manufacturing settings.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee the development, implementation, and optimization of manufacturing processes for aerospace components, ensuring compliance with high-quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate closely with design engineering, operations, and quality assurance to ensure design specifications are translated into manufacturable products, facilitating the transition from prototype to full-scale production.
• Conduct advanced process capability assessments, root cause analysis, and risk evaluations to identify process improvement opportunities and cost‑saving initiatives.
• Develop and update detailed manufacturing documentation, including process instructions, standard operating procedures, and work instructions, ensuring they are in line with industry best practices.
• Utilize statistical analysis and data‑driven methodologies to monitor and analyze manufacturing performance, driving improvements and implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Lead initiatives related to automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies to enhance production efficiency and reduce costs.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians, helping to foster a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
• Maintain and strengthen collaboration across teams, ensuring that technicians, machinists, and assembly teams are actively involved in the process design and improvement efforts.
• Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards, including handling hazardous materials and ensuring safeguards are in place.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. Significant work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 2-5 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process improvement, or related technical roles.
• Proven ability to apply engineering principles and decision‑making to resolve complex manufacturing challenges.
• Strong proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and other engineering tools used for design, analysis, and optimization.
• Hands‑on experience in manufacturing environments, with a demonstrated ability to handle both the technical and logistical aspects of production.
• Proven track record in continuous process improvement and the ability to drive manufacturing efficiencies.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams.
• Solid understanding of engineering mathematics (at least Trigonometry), as applied to manufacturing and process analysis.
• Ability to learn and adapt in a dynamic work environment, while receiving and integrating feedback.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, and industry standards (e.g., AS9100, ISO9001.)
• Use of GD&T in a manufacturing environment.
• Exposure to gage and fixturing methodology.
• Development and deployment of automated manufacturing systems.
• Exposure to ERP/MRP.
• Familiarity with CAM software.
• Proven track record in high‑rate manufacturing environments.
• Experience with hazardous materials and proper safeguards for handling and compliance.
• Programming knowledge (C, C++, Python, ladder logic, block programming etc.)

Physical Requirements:

Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer

Employment Type:

Exempt

Salary:

$84,000-$110,000 Final compensation will be based on factors such as experience, skills, and internal equity, and is typically made within the midrange, rather than the upper end.

Work Schedule:

Full Time

Location:

Durango, CO

#LI-Onsite

Posting Timeline:

This position will remain open for a minimum of five (5) days and will continue to accept applications until the role is filled. Early applications are encouraged, as reviews and interviews may begin during the posting period.

What You'll Love About Us:

Agile Space Industries offers exceptional benefits to support you and your family including generous health coverage, dental and vision plans, Flexible Time Off, parental leave, and a 401(k) with 100% company match up to 4%. We are committed to creating a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.

Disclaimer:

Agile is proud to offer a competitive benefits package to support our team members as they take on challenging, mission‑driven work. The benefits listed in this job description are applicable to full‑time employees. Part‑time, temporary, or other non‑full‑time employees may have different benefit eligibility in accordance with company policy and applicable plan terms.

Don't meet every single requirement?

At Agile, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't perfectly align with every qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. You might be the perfect fit for this role or another opportunity with us.

Reasonable Accommodation:

At Agile, our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at Agile Space Industries. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please submit a request to [e-mail].

Salary Description

$84,000-$110,000