Project Engineer III - Serial Production

Job Description

Job Description

Since 2018, Elevate Aircraft Seating has been enhancing the passenger experience through innovative aircraft seat design and manufacturing. With locations in California, Washington, and Germany we are guided by creativity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to quality.

We are looking for a skilled Project Engineer Serial Production to join our team in Huntington Beach, CA. This is an on-site position based in Huntington Beach, CA. We value teamwork, inclusivity, and continuous professional development, and we offer competitive benefits along with opportunities for growth.

JOB SUMMARY

The Project Engineer Serial Production serves as the critical link between manufacturing teams, the physical product, and the broader Engineering organization, with direct responsibility for translating identified problems into engineered solutions. Using a broad foundation of engineering knowledge and practical experience, the Project Engineer Serial Production clearly defines reported issues, conducts engineering investigations, and determines right-sized solutions to ensure timely resolution. Problem solving is at the core of this role, and effective communication with multidisciplinary teams is essential. This role partners closely with Program Management, Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, Certification, and Design Engineering to ensure product conformity, production stability, and the timely implementation of engineering changes.

The Project Engineer drives issue resolution, supports continuous improvement initiatives, and ensures customer and regulatory requirements are met throughout the production lifecycle.

SUMMARY OF JOB DUTIES - Essential Functions (Other duties and projects may be assigned or requested.)

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

• Lead problem resolution for assigned products, programs, and sub-tasks to ensure timely closure of identified issues.
• Manage problem reports and maintain structured internal communication with a daily cadence for assigned programs and products.
• Provide daily updates on the status of problem resolution for assigned products, programs, and tasks.
• Apply prescribed engineering analysis and problem-solving methodologies to expedite resolution within tight timelines.
• Translate reported problems into clear technical definitions and engineering requirements to support change management.
• Support Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA) activities related to quality escapes and production issues.
• Serve as the primary engineering point of contact for assigned internal customers, programs, and products.
• Coordinate closely with Manufacturing and Quality Engineering teams to support issue resolution and production stability.
• Provide technical support to internal and external customers while ensuring appropriate engagement of the broader Engineering team.
• Support production readiness and manufacturing line stability.
• Participate in New Product Integration (NPI) activities to ensure engineering alignment during production introduction.
• Demonstrate flexibility to support Aftermarket and Development Engineering activities when required.
• Communicate engineering findings, problem report data, and analysis to relevant engineering functions to ensure transfer of lessons learned and support continuous product improvement.
• Leverage internal and external product feedback to support optimization of designs for manufacturing and assembly.
• Maintain technical documentation and ensure on-time submission of required deliverables to OEMs, integrators, and customers, including RACs, EDES, and DQNs supporting change management throughout serial production.
• Serve as the Engineering representative on the Material Review Board (MRB) to disposition non-conforming products.
• Manage time and priorities to ensure timely resolution of engineering issues and fulfillment of internal and external requirements.
• Maintain a safe, secure and legal work environment, adhering to all Company policies and procedures.
• Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed.
• Protect the confidentiality of the Company’s information and products.

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS – Education, Knowledge, and Experience

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar discipline is required.

Experience: The position requires a wide knowledge of Engineering, design principles, manufacturing techniques, and the constraints of change within an Aerospace environment.

• Level III: Minimum 8 years of related experience required, Minimum of 4 years of experience in the aircraft industry.

Skills:

Level III:

• Leads system design and integration activities for complex products and manufacturing environments.
• Provides technical guidance and mentorship to engineers and cross-functional teams.
• Drives resolution of complex engineering issues while ensuring alignment with product performance, manufacturing requirements, and certification standards.

Applicable to Levels I,II, and III:

• Ability to consider a wide range of details from the problem-solving and concept stages through testing and modeling phases, ensuring nothing critical is overlooked.
• Ability to approach problems and tasks with a calm and analytical mindset and resolve issues while minimizing risk.
• Ability to immerse in product design intent, stay updated on industry trends, and continuously learn new technologies and engineering techniques.
• Ability to effectively share information with team members and explain technical concepts clearly and concisely using appropriate methods.
• Ability to identify priorities, plan work accordingly, and manage time effectively to ensure successful execution.

Preferred Skills/Experience:

• Microsoft Office proficiency (i.e. Word, Outlook, Excel, Projects)
• Knowledge of related software including CATIA, AutoCAD, and PLM
• Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Awareness of structured problem-solving tools such as DFMEA, PFMEA, and Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA) processes.
• Awareness of Six Sigma methodologies and data-driven decision-making tools.
• Experience supporting engineering change management processes in a regulated environment.
• Awareness of FAA and/or OEM regulatory compliance requirements.

Other:

• Extended or irregular hours may be required.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• Elevate Aircraft Seating is an “at-will” employer; employment is at the mutual consent of both the employee and the employer, and may be terminated at will for any reason, with or without cause, at any time during employment with the Company.
• As business conditions warrant a change in the operating necessities of the Company, all employees are expected to react productively, handle other essential tasks assigned now or in the future.

SUPERVISION PROVIDED TO THE POSITION

• Works under general direction, receiving guidance in terms of objectives and project priorities.
• Performance is measured by achievement of defined engineering and program objectives.
• Receives additional guidance on complex, non-routine, or high-risk technical issues as needed.
• Exercises independent judgment in executing assigned engineering tasks and coordinating engineering solutions.

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITY

• Supports alignment of engineering activities with organizational goals, operating policies, and budgetary guidelines.

PROBLEM SOLVING

• Develop and implement solutions for a variety of technical problems using established precedents, engineering principles, and organizational policies.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Elevate Aircraft Seating offers competitive wages and benefits to recognize employees for their work. The base pay offered will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, location, experience and take into account internal equity.

Salary Range Transparency: $100,000 - $135,000 annually

Featured Benefits:

• Up to 7% bonus potential (for bonus eligible positions)
• Generous 401(K) matching with immediate eligibility and vesting
• 3 weeks of Paid Time Off
• 12 paid holidays
• Affordable health care plans for yourself and your family
• And so much more!

Other Perks:

• On-site gym
• Free electric car charging stations
• Potential for growth within organization
• Supportive workplace environment with a team-oriented culture