Manufacturing Engineer

Rock West Composites is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to support the development and production of high-performance composite structures for DoD, space, and commercial applications.
This role is responsible for defining and executing manufacturing processes from prototype through production, ensuring products meet requirements for quality, cost, and performance. You’ll work closely with Engineering, Program Management, and Production teams to solve complex technical challenges and drive continuous improvement.
This is a hands-on role in a small batch, R&D-focused environment, ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced settings and enjoys taking ownership of projects from start to finish.
What You’ll Own
Manufacturing process development from concept through production
Creation and control of manufacturing documentation (MBOMs, work instructions, travelers, process specs)
Product quality, manufacturability, and process efficiency
Resolution of technical issues on the shop floor
Continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost, cycle time, and quality
Key Responsibilities
Manufacturing Process Development
Develop and implement manufacturing methods for new and existing products
Define process flows, material selections, tooling, and fabrication methods
Support product development from prototype through full production
Documentation & Process Control
Create and maintain MBOMs, EBOMs, work instructions, travelers, and process specifications
Ensure manufacturing documentation is accurate, controlled, and production-ready
Support engineering change implementation and configuration control
Production & Technical Support
Provide daily support to manufacturing and program teams
Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues on the shop floor
Perform redlines and implement engineering changes to in-process parts
Address MRB conditions and implement corrective actions
Continuous Improvement
Identify and implement process improvements to reduce cost, improve quality, and shorten cycle times
Analyze production data to drive efficiency and performance improvements
Support development of scalable and repeatable manufacturing processes
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with Engineering, Program Management, Quality, and Supply Chain
Interface with customers and suppliers to resolve technical issues
Support bids and proposals with manufacturing input, cost estimates, and feasibility
Training & Mentorship
Support training initiatives and help develop manufacturing capabilities
Mentor junior team members as needed
What You Bring
Experience
5+ years of composite Manufacturing Engineering experience
Experience supporting products from development through production
Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, tooling, and production workflows
Technical Expertise
Experience with composite manufacturing processes (wet layup, autoclave, RTM, compression molding)
Familiarity with AS9100 or similar quality systems
Experience with inspection methods and data acquisition systems
Skills & Capabilities
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
High attention to detail and strong organizational skills
Effective communication across technical and non-technical teams
Tools & Systems
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project)
Experience with CAD/CAM (SolidWorks preferred)
Strong understanding of blueprint reading and GD&T
Additional Requirements
Must be a U.S. Person (due to ITAR requirements)
Ability to pass background check and drug screening
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $120,000 – $150,000
100% Employer-Paid Medical & Dental
Annual Bonus Program
401(k) with 5% Match
Employee Stock Option Program
9/80 Work Schedule (every other Friday off)
8 Paid Holidays + Generous PTO
$2,500 Tuition Reimbursement
Equal Opportunity Employer
Rock West Composites is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the company to provide equal opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, ancestry, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, transitioning status, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, medical condition, mental disability, physical disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law. EEO is the law. We also prohibit compensation discrimination under all applicable laws. Certain positions require meeting the U.S. Person definition in 22 CFR 120.62.
ITAR Requirement
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder) as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the company’s immigration sponsorship now or in the future. Rock West Composites will not offer immigration sponsorship for this position. Rock West Composites will not seek an export authorization for this role. Rock West Composites maintains a Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace. Depending on state law and the nature of the position, candidates who receive a conditional offer of employment may be required to complete a drug screening. Rock West Composites may also conduct drug and alcohol testing based on reasonable suspicion, post-incident, or for safety-sensitive positions as permitted by law.
Accommodation Notice
If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact 858-537-6260.

Employment type
Full-Time

Work arrangement
No