Manufacturing Engineer III-V

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.; Oklahoma City (OK); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) Savings Plan

Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)

Paid Time-Off (PTO)

Holidays

Education Reimbursement

Life/ADD & Disability Insurance

Job summary

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS) seeks a Manufacturing Engineer to design, implement, and improve production processes for high‑performance aerospace components. You will collaborate with engineering, quality, and supply chain to drive throughput, quality, and lean operation on site in Oklahoma City.

Candidates should have a BS in Manufacturing Engineering, 5–10 years of experience, and familiarity with CAD/CAM, ERP, and MES. U.S.

Qualifications

• BS degree in a technical field; manufacturing engineering preferred.
• 5–10 years progressive/technical experience with manufacturing processes.
• Ability to obtain/maintain U.S. security clearance may be required.

Responsibilities

• Develops and improves manufacturing processes to maximize throughput and efficiency.
• Implements producibility concepts (DfX) and maintains process documentation.
• Collaborates with engineering, quality, and supply chain teams to ensure schedules and data integrity.
• Designs workstation layouts emphasizing ergonomics, visual tools, and lean principles.
• Mentors production staff and supports tool/inventory optimization.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

DfX / manufacturability

Ergonomics

CAD/ERP tools

Mentoring OTJ

Education

BS in Manufacturing Engineering

Security clearance eligible (US citizenship)

Tools

CATIA v5

ERP systems

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

The duties and responsibilities listed below apply to all levels of Manufacturing Engineers. Each level of Manufacturing Engineer has additional duties and responsibilities listed.

• 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 I

• Works on projects of basic complexity that effect program outcomes.
• Implements Manufacturing and/or Engineering Change Orders.
• Reviews and updates manufacturing work instructions.
• Collaborates with Quality Engineering to determine inspection criteria and methods.

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.

Manufacturing Engineer V

• Advise manufacturing engineers in a leadership style role within a manufacturing environment.
• Responsible to demonstrate expert level knowledge of manufacturing processes, methodologies, and best practices.
• Provide mentorship in lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Kaizen, 5S, value stream mapping).
• Perform project management tasks, including planning, budgeting, resource allocation, and timeline management.
• Engage in professional development activities, such as attending conferences, workshops, and training sessions.
• Provide oversight to small teams of manufacturing engineers.
• Provide problem-solving and analytical skills to identify and resolve manufacturing issues.
• Communicate effectively, both verbal and written, to collaborate with stakeholders at various levels, including executives, engineers, technicians, and operators.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and manufacturing advancements to management.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

None.

#LI-Onsite

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 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).

Manufacturing Engineer V

• Requires BS degree in a technical field (Manufacturing Engineering preferred).
• A minimum of 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.
• 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.

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