Special Process Engineer

Whitcraft, LLC

$80K — $95K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering with 3+ years in non-conventional machining or 7+ years of relevant experience without a degree.
  • 2+ years in a manufacturing or quality engineering role.
  • Authorized to work in the U.S. full-time without sponsorship.
  • Ability to work under ITAR/EAR regulations.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct regular testing including chemical adjustments and corrosion evaluations.
  • Enhance internal documents and operational sheets for NCM processes.
  • Execute annual internal audits for chemical processing and NCM per Nadcap requirements.
  • Perform walk-throughs of CP and NCM areas to ensure compliance with standards.
  • Develop and optimize NCM processes for new and existing projects.
  • Program Laser and EDM machines for precise machining outcomes.
  • Document process flows and quality checkpoints in the machining process.

Benefits

  • Health and disability insurance.
  • 401(k) match.
  • Flexible spending accounts.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • Paid time off and company-paid holidays.
Full Job Description
About the Opportunity:

We are seeking a skilled and innovative Special Process - Non-Conventional Machining (NCM) Engineer to support and optimize advanced machining processes including Laser cutting, EDM (Wire), Chemical processing and other non-traditional methods. The Special Process - NCM Engineer will play a critical role in developing, qualifying, and maintaining processes that meet stringent aerospace and precision manufacturing standards.

Location: Whitesboro, NY

Responsibilities:
  • Perform and/or review daily, weekly, monthly, periodic testing such as Chemical Adjustments, Conductivity/TDS, Resistivity, Chloride Determination by Argentometric Titration, Acid Acceptance, Nitric Acid Percentage by Potentiometric Titration, Free Acid by Normality, alloy contamination by ICP, Stock Loss, Etch Rate, Hydrogen content/pick up, Stress Corrosion, pH and capability testing.
  • Work with internal team and our customers to improve CP and NCM op sheets, schedules, software control, databases, data cards, set up sheets, work instructions, routers/travelers and procedures
  • Perform annual internal audits against customer and Nadcap checklists for Chemical Processing: Alkaline Cleaning, Acid Cleaning, Pre-Penetrant Etch, Solution Analysis, Dry Film Lubricant/Paint, Grit Blasting and Vapor Degreasing
  • Perform annual internal audits against customer and Nadcap checklists for Non-Conventional Machining: Laser Beam Metal Removal including Cutting/Drilling and Electro Discharge Machining
  • Perform in person weekly walk throughs of all CP and NCM areas to ensure processes are robust and in compliance with customer and Nadcap specifications
  • Develop and optimize non-conventional machining processes (e.g., Laser cutting/drilling, Wire EDM, for new and existing components
  • Program and set parameters for Laser and EDM machines to achieve dimensional and metallurgical requirements
  • Define and document machining process flows, tooling, fixtures, and quality checkpoints
  • Collaborate with Quality and Special Process teams to meet NADCAP, AS9100, and customer-specific requirements
  • Drive root cause analysis and continuous improvement in response to process deviations or quality issues
  • Select and manage suppliers or subcontractors for outsourced NCM processes
  • Train operators and technicians on safe and effective use of non-conventional machining equipment
  • Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and best practices in advanced machining

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field AND 3+ years of experience in non-conventional machining (Laser, EDM, ECM, Chem Processing, etc.) - OR - in lieu of degree, 7+ years of experience in non-conventional machining (Laser, EDM, ECM, Chem Processing, etc.)
  • 2+ years of experience in a manufacturing or quality engineering role
  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time bases without sponsorship now or in the future. The Company cannot offer employment to visa holders who require employer sponsorship in the future or cannot work now on a full-time basis.
  • Must be able to perform work subject to ITAR/EAR regulations.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Hands-on experience with programming and operating Laser/EDM equipment (e.g., subishi, Sodick, FANUC, Trumpf, etc.)
  • Strong understanding of material behavior during high-energy machining processes
  • Experience with process documentation and validation (FAI, PPAP, control plans)
  • Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and GD&T
  • Familiarity with special process audits and NADCAP accreditation requirements
  • Lean or Six Sigma certification
  • Knowledge of CNC, CMM, and precision inspection tools
  • Proficiency in CAD/CAM software (e.g., Mastercam, Siemens NX, SolidWorks)
  • Knowledge in titrations and other chemical testing
  • Aerospace experience is preferred.

Working Conditions
  • Requires mobility in a manufacturing plant environment while using Personal Protective Equipment.
  • Must be able to frequently sit, stand and walk.
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Capable of being forklift, scissor lift, and boom lift certified
  • Must be able to climb ladder, work on platforms, and climb stairs
  • Personal protective equipment (e.g., safety glasses and safety shoes) is required on the shop floor
  • Occasional weekend and evening work may be required to accommodate priorities, deadlines, and schedules.

Acknowledgements:

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.

Benefits:

Pursuit Aerospace also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements, among other things.

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