Space Technology Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Worker Type Regular Job Description Summary The Senior Manufacturing Engineer supports the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes for complex electronic and electromechanical assemblies. This role applies in-depth knowledge of manufacturing engineering principles to improve quality, yield, throughput, and cost within assigned production areas. The engineer works cross-functionally with design engineering, quality, supply chain, production, and facilities teams to support new product introduction, process validation, and ongoing production. Key Responsibilities Support the development, implementation, and optimization of manufacturing processes for electronic and electromechanical assemblies, with a focus on safety, quality, repeatability, and efficiency. Develop, document, and maintain manufacturing process instructions, work instructions, and process parameters for assigned products and equipment. Contribute to new product introduction efforts by supporting process development, manufacturing readiness activities, and transition to production. Troubleshoot and resolve complex manufacturing issues using data-driven problem-solving methods and sound engineering judgment. Support root cause investigations and corrective actions related to process, equipment, and product issues. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve manufacturability, process capability, and production performance. Assist in the selection, implementation, qualification, and improvement of manufacturing equipment, tooling, and fixtures. Support process validation activities, including equipment qualification, gauge studies, and documentation for manufacturing changes. Monitor process performance and identify opportunities to improve yield, cycle time, uptime, and cost. Develop and maintain key process metrics, including SPC/CPK where applicable, for critical manufacturing steps. Support MRB, RCCA, and nonconformance investigations by providing technical analysis and recommended actions. Participate in the review of product designs and engineering changes to assess manufacturing impact and support design for manufacturability. Collaborate with production, quality, and facilities teams to support installation, maintenance, and improvement of manufacturing infrastructure and equipment in assigned areas. Provide guidance and technical support to technicians, operators, and less experienced engineers as needed. Support internal, customer, and regulatory audits through preparation of process documentation and objective evidence. Basic Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field. Equivalent work experience will be considered. Typically requires 5+ years of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience supporting manufacturing processes for complex assemblies in a regulated, high-reliability, or advanced technology environment. Working knowledge of process development, process control, validation, and root cause analysis. Experience with manufacturing documentation, work instructions, and engineering change implementation. Demonstrated ability to solve complex technical problems and work effectively across functions. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Experience with one or more of the following: SMT, electronics assembly, coating, dispense systems, test processes, automation, or material handling. Familiarity with SPC, CPK, PFMEA, control plans, DOE, and lean manufacturing methods. Experience supporting equipment qualification and process improvement in production environments. Ability to interpret drawings, specifications, and manufacturing requirements. Able to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of duties Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the company Physical Demands Ability to work in an office environment (Constant) Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent) Special Requirements U.S. Citizenship required Clearance Level No Clearance The salary range for this role is: $91,000 - $138,750 AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills. ITAR Requirement: This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements. Benefits : AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: . We also encourage you to review our company website at to learn more about us. Principals only need apply. NO agencies please. About AV: AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best. We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next. If you're ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV. We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status. ITAR U.S. Citizenship required