Engine Assembly Technician
General Job Summary
The Engine Assembly Technician is responsible for assembling complete propulsion systems and major engine assemblies in accordance with engineering drawings, work instructions, and quality standards. This role ensures engines are built safely, accurately, and consistently, supporting production schedules, test readiness, and customer delivery commitments.
Essential Job Functions
Engine Assembly & Build Execution - Assemble engines and major assemblies per released work instructions, drawings, and travelers. Perform mechanical assembly tasks including fitting, fastening, alignment, and torquing. Verify correct parts, revisions, and configurations prior to and during assembly. Complete build documentation accurately and in real time.
Quality, Compliance & Traceability - Perform in-process checks to ensure workmanship and conformance. Document build data, torque values, and inspection points as required. Identify and report nonconformances promptly. Maintain full traceability of parts, serial numbers, and configuration records.
Test Readiness & Integration Support - Prepare engines for test, including final inspections and readiness checks. Support test setup, instrumentation, and post-test teardown as required. Partner with Test Engineering to resolve build-related issues impacting test results.
Engineering & Manufacturing Support - Provide feedback to Engineering on assembly issues, fit, and manufacturability. Support continuous improvement in assembly processes, tooling, and fixtures. Assist with first article builds, prototypes, and development hardware. Support production readiness for delivery milestones.
Material, Tooling & Workstation Discipline - Ensure required materials, tools, and fixtures are available and used correctly. Maintain clean, safe, and organized work areas in accordance with 6S standards. Verify calibration status of tools prior to use. Follow material handling, FOD, and ESD procedures as applicable.
Supervisory Responsibility
No direct people management responsibility. Executes engine assembly tasks under direction of Manufacturing leadership. Influences quality and flow through disciplined execution.
Experience and Skills
Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on assembly experience.
Familiarity with torque tools, hand tools, and basic measurement equipment.
High attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Ability to manage confidential and export-controlled information (ITAR).
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Required:
- Experience in aerospace, defense, or propulsion system manufacturing.
- Familiarity with AS9100D and quality documentation requirements.
- Experience assembling complex mechanical systems.
Preferred:
- Technical certification or vocational training in manufacturing, mechanics, or aerospace.
- Experience in high-mix, low-volume production environments.
Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent.
3+ years of experience in mechanical assembly or manufacturing.
Work Environment / Physical Requirements
Manufacturing and assembly environments.
Standing, bending, and working in varied positions for extended periods.
Frequent handling of components and tools.
Exposure to noise, equipment, and manufacturing materials.
May be required to lift materials, components, or assemblies up to 50 lbs.
Other Duties & Flexible Support Responsibilities
Machining Support - Assist with basic machining operations under direction (e.g., deburring, drilling, light milling/lathe work, fixture setup support). Support prototype, rework, and repair activities requiring in-house machining capability. Support shipping and receiving activities including part verification, staging, and material movement. Help maintain material traceability and documentation accuracy. Non-standard & special requests.
Shipping & Receiving Support - Assist with packing, labeling, and preparing engines or components for shipment. Support receiving activities including part verification, staging, and material movement. Help maintain material traceability and documentation accuracy.
Support special builds, customer-specific requests, and non-routine engineering tasks. Assist with rework, recovery actions, and rapid-response efforts tied to quality issues or schedule recovery. Provide hands-on support for development hardware, prototypes, and one-off configurations.
Travel Requirements
None.
Job Benefits
Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage.
Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance.
401(k) Savings Plan.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).
Paid Time-Off (PTO).
Holidays.
Education Reimbursement.
Company Information
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is a leading defense technology company focused on uncrewed 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.
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.
Equal Opportunity Employer
EEO, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply.
Veteran & Military Friendly
Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation.
Reasonable Accommodations
We will provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities upon request.
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.