Staff Manufacturing Engineer

About Firehawk Aerospace

Firehawk Aerospace is pioneering the development of additively manufactured rocket propulsion systems, combining advanced manufacturing techniques with innovative engineering to deliver safer, more reliable, and cost-effective solutions for space exploration and defense.

About the Role

As a Manufacturing Engineer at Firehawk Aerospace, you will play a critical role in developing, optimizing, and supporting manufacturing processes for our rocket motor systems. You will work closely with design, quality, and production teams to ensure efficient, high-quality, and scalable manufacturing operations. This position requires a hands-on approach to problem-solving, a strong understanding of manufacturing principles, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize integration and manufacturing processes for the production of rocket motor systems, ensuring efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Collaborate with design engineering teams to ensure manufacturability of integration of components and assemblies, providing Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) feedback during the development phase.
• Create and maintain detailed work instructions, process documentation, and manufacturing plans to support production and hardware integration activities.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance overall production efficiency.
• Establish and equip a facility to perform Lot Acceptance Testing (LAT) and support ongoing LAT activities, ensuring compliance with quality and performance standards.
• Support the design, procurement, and implementation of manufacturing tools, fixtures, and equipment to meet production requirements.
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective action efforts for production issues.
• Develop and execute validation and qualification plans for new processes, equipment, and materials.
• Collaborate with quality engineering to ensure compliance with industry standards, customer requirements, and internal quality systems.
• Support the implementation of automation and advanced manufacturing technologies into manufacturing processes.
• Assist in generation of key performance indicators (KPIs) such as cycle time, scrap rates, and downtime, and develop strategies to improve performance.
• Support proposal development as required.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements in the manufacturing environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process development, or production support in aerospace, defense, or a related industry.
• Strong ownership mentality and ability to lead new product manufacturing design processes flow.
• Experience with manufacturing process documentation, including work instructions, process flow diagrams, and control plans.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing principles, including lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA).
• Familiarity with 3D modeling software (PTC Creo/Windchill or equivalent).
• Proficiency with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems (Deltek Costpoint or equivalent).
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOD issued security clearance.
• Ability to travel (up to 10%).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with process design optimization and capacity modeling.
• Experience with automation and robotics in manufacturing processes.
• Experience with compression molding.
• Working knowledge of Mil-Std-4145 (explosive safety).
• Experience in the manufacturing of rockets or weapon systems and components.
• Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems for production planning and inventory management.
• Familiarity with additive manufacturing (3D printing) processes and their application in production environments.
• Knowledge of non-destructive testing (NDT) methods and quality assurance practices.
• Experience transitioning products from development to production.
• Certification in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or related methodologies.

Benefits

• Health Coverage: 100% employer-paid medical premiums for employees and up to 75% coverage for dependents under select plans, with additional options for PPO and HDHP plans. Coverage begins the first of the month following your hire date.
• Dental and Vision Plans: Affordable dental and vision plans with extensive coverage options, including preventive care, orthodontics, and allowances for contacts and frames.
• Flexible Work Schedule: 9/80 schedule option, allowing for greater flexibility and work-life balance.
• On-Site Perks: Complimentary snacks and refreshments to keep you energized throughout the day.
• Professional Growth: Mentorship opportunities with industry-leading engineers and engagement in cutting-edge projects at the forefront of aerospace innovation.

Location: Lawton, OK | Onsite | Full Time