Reel Product Technician

Engineering Manager – Aerospace Manufacturing (Special Processes)

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and driven Engineering Manager to lead our engineering team within a highly regulated aerospace manufacturing environment . This role will oversee engineering activities related to special processes including thermal spray, chemical processing, and advanced coatings.

The ideal candidate will combine technical expertise, leadership, and operational excellence to drive process improvements, ensure compliance, and support business growth.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of manufacturing, process, and quality engineers
• Set clear goals, performance expectations, and development plans
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and collaboration

Engineering & Operations

• Oversee engineering support for production operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, and on-time delivery
• Drive process optimization initiatives across:
  • Thermal spray
  • Chemical processing (plating, anodizing, passivation)
  • Coating technologies
• Collaborate with production, quality, and supply chain teams to resolve technical challenges

Compliance & Standards

• Ensure engineering processes align with:
  • Nadcap
  • ISO 9001
  • AS9100
• Support and lead customer, regulatory, and third-party audits
• Ensure proper documentation, process validation, and certification compliance

Continuous Improvement & Strategy

• Lead Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives
• Implement data-driven improvements to reduce scrap, rework, and cycle times
• Drive CAPEX projects, including new equipment, automation, and process upgrades
• Align engineering strategy with overall business goals

New Product Introduction (NPI)

• Support quoting, feasibility, and process development for new programs
• Ensure smooth transition from development to production
• Review and approve engineering documentation, work instructions, and process flows

Customer & Supplier Interaction

• Serve as a technical point of contact for customers
• Support customer audits and technical reviews
• Oversee supplier technical performance and qualifications

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Chemical, or related field)
• 10+ years of engineering experience in aerospace or regulated manufacturing
• 3+ years of leadership or management experience
• Strong background in special processes (thermal spray, chemical processing, coatings)
• Experience with aerospace quality systems and audits

Preferred

• Experience with Nadcap accreditation and audits
• Six Sigma (Green Belt/Black Belt) or Lean certification
• Strong knowledge of process validation and control plans
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems

Key Skills

• Leadership and team development
• Strategic thinking and execution
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making
• Excellent communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced, high-compliance environment

• Ability to work in fast-paced, high-compliance environments

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary (based on experience)
• Performance-based bonuses
• Health, dental, vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays