Manufacturing Engineer

Company Overview
Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose-built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are not here to sell vapor; we build and ship real capabilities for real missions.

Now, we're entering a new phase of growth and are looking for a Manufacturing Engineer to join our team, contributing to ensuring new products are manufacturable and can be mass-produced by the production department during normal and upscaling of plant operations. The ideal candidate will thrive working in an innovative and fast-paced work environment, have excellent critical thinking skills, and will play a pivotal role in transitioning products from NPI (New Production Introduction) to mass production.

What You'll Do

This person in this role will have the responsibility to design, improve, and assist with a diverse range of manufacturing projects including production line design, product assemblies, and production plant operations. The successful candidate will have extensive knowledge of manufacturing techniques, LEAN principles, and product design as relates to mass production and will work with cross-functional teams on a daily basis.

• Review and devise manufacturing specifications for products and processes concurrently with design engineering teams
• Review, advise, and assist product development practices and procedures to identify DFX (Design for Manufacturing, Assembly, and Test) implementation
• Write and maintain work instructions for sub-assemblies, final assemblies, and fixtures/jigs
• Assist Quality Control to ensure conformance requirements for raw material or intermediate products for suppliers and monitor their compliance through the production process
• Design production line(s) and assist management with managing the value stream and maintaining the VSM (Value Stream Map)
• Participate actively in the Material Review Board and material disposition decisions
• Maintain accurate documentation including managing redlined drawings on the production floor, through the ERP and CM tools
• Regularly review production for process optimization opportunities for improvement and cost reductions and write SOPs for production and the plant
• Play an active role in the RCCA (root cause corrective action) process as pertains to production
• Represent manufacturing and assist in all certification processes, ISO, AS, and any other required.

Requirements

• Experience as a Manufacturing Engineer in a low volume/high mix manufacturing environment
• Experience in UAV design and assembly, preferably quadcopter architectures.
• Excellent communication and coaching skills to train production staff as required
• Conscientious and responsible with a sense of urgency accustomed to accelerated changes
• Excellent fabrication and assembly skills
• A keen eye for detail and a results-driven approach, i.e., plan, research, design, execution, adjust
• Subject matter expert on BOM, part number generation, and revision control
• Demonstrated experience with successfully implementing the NPI transition and product release process
• Excellent math abilities and working knowledge of data analysis/statistical methods including inference
• Experience with incorporating automated equipment and maintenance of the same
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment as well as standard machine shop equipment. Must be physically capable of the assigned duties.

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office and manufacturing equipment and may require occasional travel to customer locations or facilities. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard works hours for this position are 8:30am-5:00pm with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

ITAR Requirement

In compliance with International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Compensation and Benefits

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

EEO Statement

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.