Production Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer - 1667Full TimeColorado Springs, CO, US Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics, and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work. SARA's High-Powered Electromagnetics division is seeking a highly motivated Manufacturing Engineer to support the transition of innovative products from prototype through low-rate production out of our Colorado Springs, CO facility. This role bridges engineering, manufacturing, and quality to develop production-ready designs, optimize manufacturing processes, and ensure successful execution of customer programs. The ideal candidate enjoys solving practical manufacturing challenges, improving production efficiency, and working hands-on alongside technicians and engineers to build high-quality hardware. Core Responsibilities:Design mechanical products and assemblies with manufacturability, quality, and production scalability in mindApply Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles throughout the design processDevelop prototype hardware and transition designs into production-ready productsDesign and implement production tooling, fixtures, assembly aids, and jigsSupport manufacturing teams by troubleshooting production and assembly issues while implementing corrective action activitiesWork closely with Manufacturing, Quality, and Program Management to achieve project objectivesPerform engineering analyses and proof-of-concept evaluations to validate design solutionsSupport prototype, qualification, environmental, and production testing activitiesLead and train teams while performing tolerance analyses and GD&T principles to optimize product performance and manufacturing repeatabilityContribute to engineering drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), work instructions, and Technical Data Packages (TDPs)Support Engineering Change Notices (ECNs) and Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) by implementing design changes and maintaining accurate product documentationIdentify opportunities to improve manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and assembly processes.Collaborate with suppliers to resolve technical and manufacturability challengesProvide technical guidance to technicians during prototype and production buildsPerform other duties, assignments, and responsibilities as reasonably assigned by management in support of departmental, programmatic, and organizational objectives Requirements:Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline2 – 4 years of experience in production engineering, manufacturing engineering, or mechanical product developmentProficiency with SolidWorks or equivalent CAD softwareExperience creating engineering drawings and manufacturing documentationWorking knowledge of GD&T and production-focused design principlesExperience supporting prototype or production buildsStrong mechanical aptitude and practical problem-solving skillsAbility to interpret customer requirements and develop practical engineering solutionsExcellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skillsProficiency with Microsoft Office applicationsAbility to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary teamU.S. citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearanceMay require Moderate physical effort, including standing, sitting, and use of hands while performing duties, and carrying or lifting up to 50 poundsWorking environment is indoor, moderately loud, reasonably clean, well-lit, and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist Preferred Qualifications:4 – 7 years of experience in production engineering, manufacturing engineering, or mechanical product developmentExperience designing for machining, sheet metal, welding, composites, or additive manufacturingExperience designing production tooling, fixtures, or assembly aidsExperience supporting root cause analysis and corrective actionsFamiliarity with Engineering Change Requests (ECRs) and Engineering Change Notices (ECNs)Experience developing Technical Data Packages (TDPs) and work instructionsFamiliarity with ISO 9001 quality systemsExperience using ERP or MRP systemsExperience performing FEA using SolidWorks Simulation or COMSOLFamiliarity with electronic assembly and ESD-controlled environmentsExperience managing multiple engineering projects simultaneouslyActive Secret or Top-Secret DoW security clearance SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programsA generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)Tuition & certification reimbursementFlexible work schedulesDiscretionary Employee bonuses401(k) match/profit sharingEmployee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Pay RangeSalary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $70,000 to $110,000 (Annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise. Application Deadline: October 26, 2026 SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.