Methods & Materials Engineer

PDS Defense, Inc.; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

PDS Defense, Inc. in Wichita, KS is seeking a Methods & Materials Engineer to define efficient fabrication methods and support aircraft component assembly. The role emphasizes CATIA modeling, process optimization, and collaboration across departments.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years in methods or materials planning, strong knowledge of aircraft systems and parts, and experience with MRP and SAP databases. This on-site position offers opportunities for cost reduction and continuous improvement

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in Methods, Materials Planning, or a related field.
• Thorough knowledge of aircraft systems.
• Thorough knowledge of aircraft parts and locations of installations.
• Proficiency with CATIA v4 and/or v5 for modeling and analysis.
• Understanding of manufacturing fundamentals and supply chain processes.
• Familiarity with MRP principles and related databases.

Responsibilities

• Define the most efficient method to fabricate and assemble components for kit requirements.
• Prepare concepts for interchangeability and part replacement as needed.
• Determine requirements for and implementation of new manufacturing equipment.
• Support process improvement initiatives by reviewing industry publications for evolving standards.
• Incorporate advancements into departmental processes and procedures.
• Monitor project workflow and adjust personnel tasks to support activities.
• Provide technical training and assistance within the department.
• Ensure departmental/docs comply with company policies.
• Lead in program reviews, cost reduction initiatives, and data management.
• Act as focal for Methods/Materials for ROM bids for projects/programs.
• Provide solutions to technical/business problems of moderate scope and complexity.

Skills

Methods & Materials

Project management

Team collaboration

Aircraft systems knowledge

Manufacturing fundamentals

Tools

CATIA v4

CATIA v5

CAS

SAP

MACPAC

OSDB databases

Job description

Engineering

Methods & Materials Engineer Wichita, KS Posted: 9/30/2026

Job ID#:

226558

Job Category:

Engineering

Position Type:

Associate - W2

Shift:

1

PDS Defense, Inc. is seeking a Methods & Materials Engineer, in Wichita, KS.

Job Description

• Define the most efficient method to fabricate and assemble components for kit requirements

• Prepare concepts for interchangeability and part replacement as needed

• Determine requirements for and implementation of new manufacturing equipment

• Support process improvement initiatives by reviewing industry related publications for evolving certification standards and practices

• Incorporate advancements into departmental process and procedures

• Monitor project workflow and adjust personnel tasks to support project activities

• Provide technical training and assistance for department

• Ensure departmental and company policies are incorporated within all new document releases

• Initiate and lead in program reviews, cost reduction initiatives, system modification and data management

• Act as focal for Methods/Material for ROM bids for proposed projects/programs

• Provide solutions to a variety of technical/business related problems of moderate scope and complexity

How to thrive in this role?

Minimum of 5 years experince in Methods, Material Planning, or a related field

Thorough knowledge of aircraft systems

Thorough knowledge of aircraft parts and location of installations

Thorough knowledge of CATIA v4 and/or v5 to include modeling and analysis

Thorough knowledge of technical principles and theories related to manufacturing fundamentals

Thorough knowledge of MRP principles and supply chain management

Thorough knowledge of CAS, SAP, MACPAC, and OSDB databases

Basic Project management skills necessary to participate on both inter-departmental and intra-departmental teams and special projects

Benefits offered to vary by the contract. Depending on your temporary assignment, benefits may include direct deposit, free career counseling services, 401(k), select paid holidays, short-term disability insurance, skills training, employee referral bonus, affordable medical coverage plan, and DailyPay (in some locations). For a full description of benefits available to you, be sure to talk with your recruiter.

Job Requirements

Minimum Security Clearance:

No Clearance

Military connected talent encouraged to apply.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor / Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals / Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled

To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please visit http://www.tadpgs.com/candidate-privacy/ or https://pdsdefense.com/candidate-privacy/

The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

• The California Fair Chance Act

• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance

• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers

• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

VEVRAA Federal Contractor / Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals / Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled