BS in Engineering; Mechanical or Aerospace preferred
10+ years in manufacturing/process engineering, ideally in aerospace composites
Proficient in DMAIC, LEAN, PFMEA, and Six Sigma methodologies
Experience with Root Cause and Corrective Action processes
Strong understanding of GD&T (ASME Y14.5)
Familiarity with CNC machining environments is a plus
Green Belt Certification is advantageous
Responsibilities
Collaborate with cross-functional teams on production floor activities
Interpret engineering specifications and customer datasheets
Manage and create procedural work instructions for production
Evaluate nonconformances and provide clear repair dispositions
Lead and participate in PFMEA, Kaizen, and Six Sigma initiatives
Review tooling usage and recommend risk reduction strategies
Drive the implementation of automated drilling equipment for large aircraft structures
Benefits
Opportunity to work on cutting-edge composite aircraft structures
Engagement in continuous improvement and operational excellence initiatives
Collaborative work environment with cross-functional teams
Potential for hands-on involvement in manufacturing processes
Professional development opportunities in aerospace engineering
Full Job Description
This position requires US Citizenship
The Associate Principal Engineering position will be part of a team focused on finishing processes and assembly operations for composite aircraft structures. This role requires daily interaction and relationship-building with cross-functional teams, including Quality, Operations, Planning, and Program Management, to achieve quality standards and production ramp-rate goals.
Responsibilities include interpreting engineering specifications, dispositioning defects, conducting root cause investigations, implementing corrective actions, creating work instructions, and providing technical leadership for finishing processes (such as paint and seal applications) and assembly production lines. Additionally, the role will be responsible for the development, qualification, and implementation of new manufacturing processes to support continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Primary Responsibilities:
Work cooperatively with other departments on production floor and near composite structures.
Willing to work projects as a team or independently, as necessary.
Thorough interpretation of Catia and 3Dx models, datasheets, and customer specifications
Understanding of paint and assembly processes, tooling, techniques, and methodology
Manage procedural work instructions for production operations
Utilize good problem-solving judgement and project management skills
Evaluation of nonconformances, exhibit strong decision-making skills, and provide clear written disposition of repairs (MRB)
Drive results through leading/participating in PFMEA, Kaizen, & Six Sigma evaluations and improvement implementation
Review of tooling usage and provide technical recommendations for poka-yoke or other risk reduction activities
Review and monitor complex GD&T stack-up in an aircraft structure and interactions with tooling
Drive/support implementation of automated drilling equipment for large aircraft structures
Develop process improvements, shop aids, etc. to mitigate defects and increase production rates
Education/Additional Skills:
BS Engineering degree or equivalent years of experience; Mechanical or Aerospace degree preferred
10+ years in manufacturing/process engineering; Aerospace composite industry preferred
Ability to apply DMAIC, LEAN, PFMEA, Six Sigma, Poka-yoke improvements
Root Cause and Corrective Action / Nonconformance Disposition (MRB)
Albany International Corporation is a global advanced textiles and materials processing company. The company operates through two segments: Machine Clothing and Albany Engineered Composites. The Machine Clothing segment supplies fabrics and process felts used in the manufacture of paper, paperboard, building products, nonwovens, and specific industrial applications. The Albany Engineered Composites segment designs, develops, and manufactures advanced composite components. The company serves customers in the pulp and paper, aerospace, defense, transportation, and general industrial markets.
