Application close date:
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.
This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities.
As a Senior Manufacturing Engineer on the New Glenn Operations team, you will play a critical role in the production of one of the world's most capable heavy-lift orbital launch vehicles. You will be responsible for defining, developing, and improving the manufacturing processes that bring New Glenn's stages, structures, and systems from design to the launch pad. You will work in a fast-paced, hands-on environment where your decisions directly impact vehicle production rate, quality, safety, and cost.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:- Own and drive end-to-end manufacturing process development for assigned New Glenn vehicle structures, propulsion systems, or avionics assemblies
- Develop, author, and maintain Manufacturing Process Specifications, work instructions in support of production operations
- Collaborate closely with Design Engineering to provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) feedback, ensuring producibility is embedded early in the design lifecycle
- Lead and support production readiness reviews (PRRs), first article inspections (FAIs), and process qualification activities
- Identify and drive resolution of production non-conformances through rigorous root cause analysis and corrective action
- Define tooling, fixturing, and capital equipment requirements; work with Tool Design and facilities teams to implement and qualify new production assets
- Develop and track key manufacturing metrics (cycle time, yield, first-pass quality) and lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies
- Support rate ramp activities by identifying and eliminating production bottlenecks and implementing scalable processes
- Partner with Supply Chain and Supplier Development teams to qualify and improve supplier manufacturing processes for externally produced components
- Provide on-floor technical support to technicians and production leads, serving as the subject matter expert for assigned process areas
- Mentor junior and mid-level manufacturing engineers and contribute to a culture of technical excellence
Minimum Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical discipline
- 7+ years of progressive manufacturing engineering experience in aerospace, defense, or a similarly complex high-consequence industry
- Demonstrated hands-on experience developing and improving manufacturing processes for large, complex mechanical assemblies
- Proficiency in authoring and managing manufacturing documentation (work instructions, BOMs) in a structured engineering environment
- Experience with GD&T and the application of tolerance analysis to manufacturing processes
- Working knowledge of structural assembly methods including fastening, welding, bonding, or composite fabrication
- Familiarity with quality systems, AS9100, and non-conformance management processes
- Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively across engineering, operations, and program management functions
- Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (per ITAR requirements)
Preferred Qualifications:- Experience in launch vehicle, spacecraft, or aircraft manufacturing environments
- Hands-on experience with large-scale metallic or composite structure fabrication and assembly (e.g., friction stir welding, spin-forming, automated fiber placement)
- Familiarity with liquid propulsion systems assembly and/or cryogenic fluid system integration
- Familiarity with routed mechanical systems and electrical harness integration methods.
- Experience with MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems), ERP platforms, and digital thread/paperless manufacturing initiatives
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification
- Experience leading or supporting production rate ramp programs
- Familiarity with statistical process control tools and methods
- Working knowledge of 3D model-based definition (MBD) and PLM tools such as Siemens Teamcenter or similar
Compensation & Benefits:Blue Origin offers a competitive total compensation package including:
- Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid parental leave
- Education assistance / tuition reimbursement
- Generous PTO and paid holidays
- On-site amenities and a culture built on safety, curiosity, and impact
Don't meet every single requirement?:Studies have shown that some candidates are less likely to apply unless they meet every qualification. At Blue Origin, we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive team. If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be exactly the person we're looking for.