Process Engineer 3rd Shift (11PM - 7:30AM)
About The Role
Unusual Machines Inc. is seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Process Engineer to support and improve manufacturing operations for high-performance drone components and systems. This role will focus on optimizing production processes, improving efficiency and quality, reducing downtime, and supporting the rapid scaling of manufacturing operations in a fast-paced production environment. The ideal candidate is data-driven, mechanically inclined, and comfortable working directly on the manufacturing floor alongside operators, technicians, engineers, and leadership teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, optimize, and maintain manufacturing processes for drone components, subassemblies, and finished products
- Analyze workflows to improve throughput, efficiency, yield, and cycle times
- Support troubleshooting of manufacturing equipment and process-related issues
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing methodologies
- Create and maintain SOPs, work instructions, process flows, and manufacturing documentation
- Work closely with production teams to implement standardized manufacturing practices
- Aid in production line setup, balancing, and validation activities
- Monitor KPIs such as scrap rates, downtime, OEE, and first-pass yield
- Support new product introduction (NPI) and manufacturing scale-up activities
- Collaborate with Quality, Supply Chain, Production, and Engineering teams to resolve manufacturing challenges
- Participate in PFMEA, corrective actions, and process validation activities
- Identify opportunities for automation, poka-yoke, and process improvements
- Train operators and lead technicians on updated manufacturing processes and best practices
- Support semi-automated and automated production equipment implementation
Day-to-Day Activities
- Monitor manufacturing floor performance and production metrics
- Troubleshoot process and equipment issues in real time
- Conduct time studies and workflow analysis
- Support machine setups and process changeovers
- Analyze quality trends and implement corrective actions
- Work directly with operators and technicians to improve consistency and efficiency
- Support tooling, fixture, and jig improvements
- Update manufacturing and engineering documentation
- Lead a team of manufacturing technicians with day to day activities
Qualifications
- Required:
- Experience working in a production or manufacturing environment
- Strong troubleshooting and analytical problem-solving skills
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and manufacturing documentation
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and manufacturing data analysis
- Previous experience working on 3rd shift
- 2+ years of manufacturing or process engineering experience
- Experience with automation or semi-automated manufacturing systems
- Experience in drone, aerospace, electronics, automotive, or advanced manufacturing environments
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles
- Familiarity with ERP/MES systems
- Experience creating SOPs and standardized work instructions
- Hands-on experience with fixtures, tooling, and process development
- Preferred:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field
- Experience in a startup or rapidly growing company
- Experience with drone, aerospace, or advanced manufacturing technologies
What You'll Bring
- Strong attention to detail
- Hands-on engineering mindset
- Ability to work independently and drive projects to completion
- Organizational and time management skills
- Excellent troubleshooting capabilities
- Adaptability in a rapidly scaling manufacturing environment
- Passion for process optimization and operational excellence
What You'll Gain
- Opportunity to work in an innovative and rapidly growing drone manufacturing company
- Exposure to advanced manufacturing and automation technologies
- Hands-on experience scaling U.S.-based precision manufacturing operations
- Career growth opportunities within engineering and manufacturing leadership
- Collaborative startup-style environment with high visibility and impact
- Opportunity to directly influence manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and the successful scaling of innovative drone technologies
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk on the manufacturing floor for extended periods
- Occasionally lift up to 35 lbs
- Comfortable working around manufacturing equipment and machinery
- Use hand tools and measurement equipment when necessary
Benefits
- Equity is included for all exempt positions
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits
- 401(k)
- Unlimited PTO
- Paid Holidays
- Daily Catered Lunches
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status. Unusual Machines participates in E-Verify. E-Verify is an Internet-based system that compares information from an employee's Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to data from U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration records to confirm employment eligibility.