Job Description
Manufacturing Engineering Manager
Date: Sep 26, 2025
Location:Cromwell, CT, US
Company: GKN Aerospace Careers
Job Summary
A highly motivated and experienced Manufacturing Engineering Manager is sought to lead composites manufacturing operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing, optimizing, and maintaining manufacturing processes for composite materials and structures. This ensures the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. The role requires a strong leader who can manage a team of engineers, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
Job Responsibilities
- Manage and lead a team of Manufacturing Engineers, fostering innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for composite components and assemblies, including layup, molding (e.g., Resin Transfer Molding (RTM), vacuum infusion, compression molding), curing, machining, and assembly.
- Drive the use of Model-Based Manufacturing (MBM) techniques and related CAD/CAM tools (e.g., CATIA V5, SolidWorks) for design, analysis, and process development.
- Implement Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S) to enhance productivity, reduce waste, and improve operational performance.
- Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and regulations (e.g., AS9100, FAA, DOD, ISO standards).
- Oversee the selection, procurement, and maintenance of manufacturing equipment and tooling.
- Collaborate with design engineering, research & development (R&D), quality assurance, and production teams to ensure manufacturability and smooth product launches.
- Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets for manufacturing engineering initiatives.
- Analyze and troubleshoot manufacturing issues, implementing root cause corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
- Drive digital transformation initiatives (e.g., digital work instructions, value stream mapping, digital twin technology, automation).
- Provide technical support and guidance to production teams, mentoring junior engineers and promoting knowledge sharing.
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Job Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master's degree is preferred.
- A minimum of 5-10+ years of experience in aerospace manufacturing is required.
- A minimum of 2-4 years of experience leading a technical engineering team is required.
- A solid working knowledge of composite manufacturing processes is preferred, including layup, molding (RTM, Vacuum Infusion, Compression Molding), curing, machining, and assembly.
- Proficiency in CAD/CAM software (e.g., CATIA V5, SolidWorks, Siemens NX) is preferred.
- Demonstrated experience with Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S) is required.
- A strong understanding of quality control and assurance principles is required, including familiarity with ISO standards, AS9100, and other relevant industry standards.
- Excellent leadership, communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills are required.
- The ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities is required.
- Experience with project management, including budgeting, scheduling, and risk management, is required.
- Familiarity with ERP/MES systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) is a plus.
- Knowledge of advanced manufacturing technologies, such as additive manufacturing (3D Printing), robotics, automation, and digital twin technology, is highly desirable.
- The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance may be required in some roles.
Desired traits
- Adaptability and a curious mindset to learn new technologies and processes.
- Resourcefulness and the ability to find creative solutions to complex problems.
- Strong analytical skills and experience in data analysis and statistical process control (SPC).
- A commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on the latest advancements in composites manufacturing and related technologies.
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