Senior Principal Engineer

Main Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop, document, and maintain manufacturing methods, process flows, routings, and work instructions
• Analyze existing processes to improve efficiency, quality, yield, and cycle time
• Support new product introduction (NPI), including process definition and manufacturability reviews
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies
• Provide technical support to Production, Quality, and Engineering teams during troubleshooting and process changes
• Establish and validate standard costs, including labor, overhead, material, and processing
• Develop cost models and cost estimates for new and existing products
• Perform cost roll-ups, variance analysis, and cost reduction opportunities
• Support pricing, quoting, margin analysis, and make/buy decisions
• Partner with Supply Chain and Manufacturing to identify cost savings and productivity improvements
• Support audits, should-cost analysis, and customer cost reviews as needed
• Work closely with Design Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Finance, and Supply Chain
• Provide data-driven recommendations to leadership related to process and cost decisions
• Support DFMEA/PFMEA, risk assessments, and capacity planning activities

About the Role

PennAero is a leading manufacturer of highly engineered fasteners and specialized components for critical aerospace, defense, space, and advanced energy applications. We partner with customers to solve their most complex challenges, bringing technical depth and disciplined, agile execution when it matters most.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial, or related discipline)
• 10+ years of engineering experience in aerospace manufacturing
• Demonstrated experience setting and managing costs in a manufacturing environment
• Strong understanding of labor standards, overhead allocation, and manufacturing economics
• Proven experience developing and improving manufacturing processes
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and routings
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills

Skills

Background in cost modeling, standard costing, or should-cost analysis

Benefits

• Medical Insurance and Prescription Drugs
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability
• Long-Term Disability Insurance (for eligible employees)
• Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)
• Paid Time Off (may include vacation and sick time)
• Retirement Program
• Other Voluntary Benefits

Pay

The expected pay range for this position is $90,000 - $140,000. Compensation can vary depending on several factors, including a candidate's qualifications, skills, experience, competencies, and geographic location. Some roles may qualify for extra incentives like equity, commissions, or other variable performance-related bonuses.

Schedule

Full-time