Engineering Manager - Aerospace Manufacturing

South Windsor, CT | Full time

About the role

Leads the engineering team within a highly regulated aerospace manufacturing environment, overseeing engineering activities for special processes including thermal spray, chemical processing, and advanced coatings. This role combines technical expertise and leadership to drive process improvements, ensure compliance, and support business growth.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of manufacturing, process, and quality engineers, setting clear goals, performance expectations, and development plans.
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and collaboration.
• Oversee engineering support for production operations to ensure efficiency, quality, and on-time delivery.
• Drive process optimization initiatives across thermal spray, chemical processing (plating, anodizing, passivation), and coating technologies.
• Collaborate with production, quality, and supply chain teams to resolve technical challenges.
• Ensure engineering processes align with Nadcap, ISO 9001, and AS9100 standards.
• Support and lead customer, regulatory, and third-party audits.
• Ensure proper documentation, process validation, and certification compliance.
• Lead Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives.
• Implement data-driven improvements to reduce scrap, rework, and cycle times.
• Drive CAPEX projects including new equipment, automation, and process upgrades.
• Align engineering strategy with overall business goals.
• Support quoting, feasibility, and process development for new programs as part of new product introduction.
• Ensure smooth transition from development to production.
• Review and approve engineering documentation, work instructions, and process flows.
• Serve as a technical point of contact for customers, supporting customer audits and technical reviews.
• Oversee supplier technical performance and qualifications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Chemical, or related field).
• 10+ years of engineering experience in aerospace or regulated manufacturing.
• 3+ years of leadership or management experience.
• Strong background in special processes (thermal spray, chemical processing, coatings).
• Experience with aerospace quality systems and audits.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to operate in a high-compliance manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Nadcap accreditation and audits.
• Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt) or Lean certification.
• Strong knowledge of process validation and control plans.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems.

Pay

$135,000 to $150,000 per year, plus performance-based bonuses.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401k with company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.