Job Description
Job Description Manufacturing Engineer 1
Location: Brea, CA
Department: Engineering / Operations
Schedule: Full-Time | On-Site
FLSA Status: Exempt
Pay Range: $72,000–$80,000 annually
Position Summary
Manufacturing Engineering 1 responsibilities include the following: Support Integrated, Product, Team, (IPT) improvement opportunities, production efficiency, implementation of manufacturing processes for aerospace/commercial, and military composite products. Apply engineering principles, established procedures, and technical knowledge to support, product quality, and continuous improvement. Works collaborate with manufacturing engineers and cross-functional teams to evaluate improvement opportunities and best practices.
We welcome early-career engineers with strong technical fundamentals, problem-solving abilities, and an interest in developing specialized expertise in aerospace composite manufacturing.
About AC
Come and join the Applied Composites team. We are a leading provider of complex composite components, assemblies, engineering and tooling to the aerospace, defense and space system markets. Our employees are treated with respect and dignity and are provided opportunities to develop and grow their careers.
Key Responsibilities
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Analyze manufacturing processes and support improvements to reduce bottlenecks, waste, and production inefficiencies using Lean manufacturing principles.
- Provide technical support for composite manufacturing operations, including interpretation of customer 2D drawings with GD&T interpretation, Specification 3D engineering models and equipment capabilities.
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Assist in investigating manufacturing and production quality issues, identifying potential causes, and implementing approved corrective actions.
- Support compliance with the Quality Management System (QMS), customer, and safety requirements.
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Prepare, review, and revise manufacturing documentation, including work instructions, process specifications, and production media, for appropriate technical review and approval.
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Collaborate with Engineering, Production, Quality, Procurement, and suppliers to support manufacturing activities and process improvements.
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Assist with process and material evaluations, tooling reviews and implementation of approved manufacturing improvements under the guidance of experienced engineering personnel.
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Perform other related duties as assigned.
Job Specifications
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related engineering discipline, or equivalent relevant education and experience.
Experience: 0–2 years of relevant manufacturing engineering experience. Experience in aerospace or composite manufacturing preferred.
Technical Skills
- Working knowledge of manufacturing processes, engineering principles, and systematic problem-solving techniques.
- Familiarity with composite manufacturing materials and processes, including prepreg systems such as epoxy, carbon fiber, BMI, and polyimide matrices.
- Ability to interpret 2D engineering drawings, GD&T, 3D models, and applicable manufacturing specifications.
- Familiarity with Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methods.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and related business applications.
- Exposure to CAD software such as SolidWorks, CATIA, or AutoCAD preferred.
- Familiarity with composite assembly, adhesive bonding, coatings, and related finishing processes preferred.
- Exposure to CNC routers, tooling, precision inspection equipment, CMM, or Verisurf preferred.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills and ability to work collaboratively across functions.
Scope and Decision-Making
Works within established engineering procedures and practices to resolve standard manufacturing problems. Exercises technical judgment appropriate to experience, with guidance from more experienced engineering personnel on unfamiliar or complex assignments. Manufacturing process changes and technical documentation requiring formal authorization are subject to established review and approval procedures.
Benefits:
At Applied Composites, we recognize how important your career and benefits are to you and your family. We offer a full suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability coverage, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, basic and supplemental life insurance, employee assistance plan, retirement savings and matching, tuition reimbursement and other developmental opportunities. We are committed to supporting the way you live and work.
AC is an Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled - Affirmative Action Employer.
This position requires the use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. 'Green Card Holder'), Political Asylee, or Refugee.
Day Shift