Manufacturing Engineer: Space Hardware & DFMA Expert

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, MD, is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to lead complex fabrication projects from concept through production. You will collaborate with engineers, machinists, and program teams to apply DFMA, GD&T, and advanced manufacturing processes to meet performance, cost, and schedule goals.

The role requires a BS in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Manufacturing Engineering and 3+ years of hands-on fabrication experience; travel and ability to

Qualifications

• 3+ years of manufacturing engineering experience across multiple fabrication processes.
• Deep expertise in one or more of: CNC machining, turning, EDM, sheet metal, welding, additive manufacturing, composites, or tooling/mold design.
• Experience developing prototype hardware and transitioning designs to manufacturing.
• Experience with CAD tools such as CREO or SolidWorks.
• Ability to interpret drawings and apply GD&T (ASME Y14.5).
• Strong planning, communication, and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Serve as SME for mechanical fabrication technologies across programs.
• Apply DFMA principles to improve manufacturability, cost, and schedule.
• Translate design intent from drawings to manufacturing solutions.
• Develop manufacturing plans, processes, and production strategies for prototype hardware.
• Coordinate with engineers, machinists, inspectors, and suppliers to resolve issues.
• Develop manufacturing estimates, schedules, and resource plans.
• Lead or support R&D initiatives to adopt advanced manufacturing tech.
• Stay current with manufacturing standards and best practices.

Skills

DFMA

CAD (CREO/SolidWorks)

GD&T (ASME Y14.5)

CNC Machining (3/5-axis)

Sheet Metal

Welding

Additive Manufacturing

Composites

Tooling/Mold Design

Education

B.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

ERP/MRP systems

PLM systems

CREO

SolidWorks

Job description

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, MD, is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to lead complex fabrication projects from concept through production. You will collaborate with engineers, machinists, and program teams to apply DFMA, GD&T, and advanced manufacturing processes to meet performance, cost, and schedule goals.

The role requires a BS in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Manufacturing Engineering and 3+ years of hands-on fabrication experience; travel and ability to