Manufacturing Engineer II-IV

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.

Sacramento (CA)

On-site

USD 82,000 - 130,000

Full time

10 hours ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Life/AD&D Insurance

Short/Long Disability Insurance

401(k)

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Paid Time Off

Holidays

Education Reimbursement

Job summary

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to develop and improve manufacturing processes for high‑throughput production lines at KUAS. You will champion lean methodologies, document processes, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure schedule integrity and quality.

The role supports multiple engineering levels, involves layout optimization, tooling coordination, and training material creation, with travel up to 25% and competitive compensation.

Qualifications

BS degree in a technical field; Manufacturing Engineering preferred.
2–5 years progressive/technical experience for Manufacturing Engineer II/III.
May require U.S. security clearance; U.S. Citizenship may be required.
Experience with lean manufacturing and CATIA v5 is preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and document manufacturing processes with emphasis on training and visual aids.
Implement producibility concepts and ensure data integrity across production.
Coordinate tool maintenance, repair, and inspection; manage workflow layouts.
Collaborate with IPT and Program managers to meet schedules and standards.
Identify tooling, materials, and ergonomic improvements for throughput.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Process improvement

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Ergonomics

Education

BS in a technical field (Manufacturing Engineering preferred)

Tools

CATIA V5

CAD tools

ERP

MES

Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned 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.

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high‑performance, cost‑effective, jet‑powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid‑tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top‑notch jet‑powered subscale targets has established us as a go‑to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price.

At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY: Develops, implements, and improves manufacturing and industrial processes to effect maximum product throughput and optimum resource efficiency. Coordinates engineering changes to existing product lines and manages new product introductions. Sets work standards, work‑flows, and defines resource requirements for assigned programs. Is expected to apply and champion ‘Lean Manufacturing’ methodologies in all areas of the manufacturing cycle. Works closely with other engineers and other functional departments to ensure schedule, systems, and part/process data integrity.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Manufacturing Engineer ALL

Works with customer released or KUAS released drawings and/or CAD models, engineering BOMs, and other engineering specifications to develop, implement and improve manufacturing processes.
Creates or participates in engineering and manufacturing reviews and communicates effectively as a technical contributor.
Implents and executes producibility concepts and understands DfX of products and processes.
Collaborates well with internal and external resources to resolve technical issues.
Develops and documents the manufacturing process in detail with an emphasis on visual media, ease of training, and standardized format.
Responsible for disposition of discrepant or non‑conforming product.
Has familiarity with CAD tools, manufacturing execution systems, ERP, and other commonly used software.
Designs, coordinates and validates workstation layouts with an emphasis on ergonomics, single piece or small batch flow, visual aids, Poke Yoke (mistake proofing), 5S, and zero‑defect policies.
Calculates and communicates shop floor staffing based on production requirements. Provides OTJ training or mentoring and may provide certification for processes to production associates.
Works with materials management to develop and implement effective inventory methodologies.
Reviews and designs in‑process handling equipment for the safe and expeditious transportation of parts, inventory, and/or tooling.
Identifies tooling requirements and coordinates the manufacturing of tools/fixture.
May identify issues with production personnel and recommend mitigation actions.
Responsible to generate, review, and maintain cost, schedule, and technical performance operational targets and standards.
Other duties may be assigned.

Manufacturing Engineer II

Works on projects of medium complexity which impact aspects of programs.
Works with IPT and Program managers to ensure schedule and contractual integrity.
May coordinate the work of other engineers and production specialists.
Reviews and approves Engineering Design changes.
Coordinates tool maintenance, repair, and inspection.
Implements new product design into the manufacturing system.
Constantly reviews equipment, technology, processes, and manufacturing methods to identify opportunities for improvements.

Manufacturing Engineer III

Works on projects of advanced complexity that have significant program impact.
Works with IPT and Program managers to ensure schedule and contractual integrity.
Establish & maintain material, process, and workmanship specifications.
Develop and implement tooling for all phases of production.
A subject matter expert for manufacturability of product, process, and tooling.

Manufacturing Engineer IV

Independently works on projects of advanced complexity that have major organizational impact.
Maintain reliable and safe manufacturing systems while improving production rates, efficiencies, yields, costs, and changeovers.
Responsible for material evaluation, testing, and implementation for production operations. Includes assisting Engineering and Supply Chain with material obsolescence and or selection.
Evaluate and improve on processes in manufacturing systems.
Research and purchase new manufacturing technology.
Advise on corrective actions.
Responsible to establish & maintain material, process, and workmanship specifications.
Will mentor lower‑level manufacturing engineers and act as a liaison to other functional organizations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

None

COMPENSATION:

$82,000 - 130,000

Experience and Skills

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Required: Each successive level of Manufacturing Engineer builds on the identified typical qualifications listed for the previous level(s) Manufacturing Engineer.

Manufacturing Engineer II

Requires BS degree in a technical field (Manufacturing Engineering preferred).
A minimum of 2-5 years of progressive/technical experience.
May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Manufacturing Engineer III

Requires BS degree in a technical field (Manufacturing Engineering preferred).
A minimum of 5-7 years progressive/technical experience.
May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Manufacturing Engineer IV

Requires BS degree in a technical field (Manufacturing Engineering preferred).
A minimum of 7-10 years progressive/technical experience.
Material and/or Process Engineering experience.
May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Preferred:

Experience with composite manufacturing, i.e. lamination, machining, and bonding.
Experience in lean manufacturing methods.
CATIA v5.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Standing on a hard surface, walking. Some lifting (not over 50 lbs.).
Office and manufacturing environment.
Employee may generate, handle, manage, or work around hazardous materials and hazardous wastes.
May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

0-25% May be required between other KUAS locations.

THE ABOVE STATEMENTS ARE INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE GENERAL NATURE AND LEVEL OF WORK BEING PERFORMED BY INDIVIDUALS ASSIGNED 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 ARE INCIDENTAL 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. THE REQUIREMENTS LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE THE MINIMUM LEVELS OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, OR ABILITIES

Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
401(k) Savings Plan
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
Paid Time-Off (PTO)
Holidays
Education Reimbursement

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race,color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Disability Accessibility Accommodation If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to our careers site, please send your request to HRAccessibility@kratosdefense.com or call 858-964-2916. Any inquiries not related to requesting an accommodation will be discarded.

Pay Transparency The company will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.

Job Applicant Privacy Notice For applicants in the EU and California residents, please review our privacy notice.

Important: Applicants please read

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

PLEASE NOTE: Refusal to complete this information will not subject any applicant or employee to adverse treatment. The information that you provide will be recorded and maintained in a confidential file, separate from all other records. This information will not be used in consideration for your employment.

Veteran This employer is a Government contractor subject to the Vietnam Era Veterans'Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, as amended by the Jobs for Veterans Act of 2002,38 U.S.C. 4212 (VEVRAA), which requires Government contractors to take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment:

Disabled veterans;
Recently separated veterans;
Active duty wartime or campaign badge veterans;
Armed Forces service medal veterans.

These classifications are defined as follows:

A "disabled veteran" is one of the following:

A veteran of the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service who is entitled to compensation (or who but for the receipt of military retired pay would be entitled to compensation) under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs;
A person who was discharged or released from active duty because of a service‑connected disability.

A "recently separated veteran" means any veteran during the three‑year period beginning on the date of such veteran's discharge or release from active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval, or air service.

An "active duty wartime or campaign badge veteran" means a veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service during a war, or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized under the laws administered by the Department of Defense.

An "Armed forces service medal veteran" means a veteran who, while serving on active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service, participated in a United States military operation for which an Armed Forces service medal was awarded pursuant to Executive Order 12985.

Protected veterans may have additional rights under USERRA - the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. In particular, if you were absent from employment in order to perform service in the uniformed service, you may be entitled to be reemployed by your employer in the position you would have obtained with reasonable certainty if not for the absence due to service. For more information, call the U.S. Department of Labor's Veterans Employment and Training Service (VETS), toll‑ free, at 1-866-4-USA-DOL.

If you believe you belong to any of the categories of protected Veterans listed above, please indicate by checking the appropriate box below. As a government contractor subject to VEVRAA, we request this information to measure the effectiveness of the outreach and positive recruitment efforts we undertake pursuant to VEVRAA.