RoleNorthwood is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to join our dynamic team, specializing in the production and assembly of advanced satellite communications ground stations. You will be directly responsible for developing scalable manufacturing processes, supporting hardware integration, and making critical decisions on equipment and capability investments to optimize cost, quality, and lead time. This role combines hands-on production support with strategic planning to help shape the future of Northwood's manufacturing operations.
Responsibilities- Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for complex antenna systems, including precision RF assemblies and advanced electronic integration.
- Design and validate tooling, fixtures, and assembly processes to ensure repeatability, efficiency, and reliability.
- Translate engineering designs into robust production workflows.
- Partner with design teams early in development to drive design-for-manufacturability (DFM) and seamless transition from prototype to production.
- Lead root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives to increase yield and reduce defects in tightly integrated electromechanical systems.
- Develop and maintain detailed work instructions, process flows, and assembly documentation.
- Support environmental, thermal, and RF performance testing by creating appropriate handling, alignment, and test setups.
- Evaluate, specify, and procure production equipment to support manufacturing needs, balancing floor space, budget, and scalability.
- Lead make-versus-buy trade studies to determine what capabilities should be brought in-house versus outsourced.
Basic Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
- Proficiency in CAD (e.g., Siemens NX) for tooling and fixture design.
- 2+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process engineering, or related hands-on hardware experience.
- Strong knowledge of manufacturing methods including precision assembly, welding, adhesives, and mechanical fastening.
- Strong troubleshooting skills and creativity to resolve issues on the production floor.
Preferred Skills- Experience developing work instructions, process flows, and assembly documentation.
- Hands-on experience with complex electromechanical or RF hardware.
- Basic understanding of electrical and RF systems to ensure effective integration during assembly and test.
Additional Information:To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
