Manufacturing Engineer - Composites ***$5,000*** Sign-on Bonus

Title Manufacturing Engineer - Composites ***$5,000*** Sign-on Bonus About the Organization Applied Aerospace & Defense (Applied) is a premier provider of advanced design, engineering, and vertically integrated manufacturing solutions for leading and next-generation space and defense technology companies. Applied builds complex hardware for extreme operating environments and is focused on three core markets: Space and Launch Systems, Defense Aviation and Airborne Systems, and C5ISR and Precision Strike Systems. With decades of space and defense manufacturing heritage, Applied combines deep material science and IP-enabled process expertise with the ability to enable rapid prototyping, enhance new product development, and responsively scale production. Across its nationwide infrastructure of advanced manufacturing facilities, Applied continuously supports a balanced mix of next-generation technology and platform development, large scale production programs, and aftermarket sustainment for enduring platforms. EOE Statement Applied Aerospace and Defense is an equal opportunity employer. Description

Manufacturing Engineer - Composites
Applied Aerospace and Defense - Santa Ana, CA
$110,000 - $150,000 per year, depending on experience

Ready to engineer what's next in aerospace? At Applied Aerospace and Defense, we don't just build components - we build the systems that keep missions in the air and customers moving forward. If you're passionate about composites, hands-on problem-solving, and making an impact where precision matters, this is your role.

Since 1959, our Santa Ana facility has been manufacturing some of the industry's most complex aerospace structures, assemblies, landing gear, and external fuel tanks. We innovate. We improve. We deliver. And we're looking for a Manufacturing Engineer who shares that mindset.

Why This Role Stands Out
You'll be at the center of composite manufacturing - defining processes, driving improvements, and shaping how mission-critical components are built. If you love diving into technical challenges, leading root-cause investigations, implementing smarter processes, and working side-by-side with production, quality, and engineering teams, you'll thrive here.

What You'll Lead
* Develop and maintain advanced work instructions for composite production
* Drive Safety, Cost, Quality, and Delivery performance with hands-on technical support
* Support quoting activities with Purchasing and Business Development
* Establish standard hours and process capability requirements
* Lead root-cause analysis and corrective action implementation
* Implement SPC on key composite processes
* Translate engineering blueprints into clear, executable manufacturing instructions
* Train operators and mentor engineers
* Launch new processes for new product introduction
* Drive productivity improvements and cost-saving initiatives
* Assess and coordinate component repairs
* Champion safety and quality every step of the way

What You Bring
* Strong background in aerospace composite manufacturing
* Ability to create and improve manufacturing processes
* Root-cause analysis and corrective action experience
* Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, and SPC
* Excellent communication and collaboration skills
* A continuous improvement mindset and passion for engineering challenge

Why You'll Love Working Here
Competitive pay. Strong benefits. A performance-driven culture. A team that values innovation, diversity, and professional growth. At Applied Aerospace and Defense, your impact will be felt every day.

U.S. work authorization required. Background check and drug screen required.
Applied Aerospace and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Position Requirements Shift First Full-Time/Part-Time Full-Time Location Applied Aerospace & Defense, Santa Ana Category Engineering Req Number ENG-26-00024 Position Manufacturing Engineer - Composites Close Date Post Internal Days 0 Number of Openings 1 Exempt/Non-Exempt Exempt Hiring Manager(s)

This position is currently accepting applications.