Principal Manufacturing Engineer

Job Description:

Job Summary

The Senior Staff Manufacturing Engineer provides technical leadership and expertise in the development, optimization, and implementation of manufacturing processes, equipment, and systems. This role leads complex, cross-functional engineering initiatives from concept through production implementation, with a focus on safety, quality, cost, delivery, reliability, and continuous improvement. Serving as a senior technical resource, this position collaborates with key stakeholders across the organization to develop innovative and scalable manufacturing solutions, resolve complex production challenges, and drive improvements that support overall business objectives.

Job responsibilities

• Lead technical discussions and drive alignment among stakeholders with differing priorities, requirements, or perspectives
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify business needs, resolve complex issues, and develop effective manufacturing solutions
• Develop and improve manufacturing standards, procedures, work instructions, and engineering practices
• Develop testing, validation, and evaluation methods to determine the effectiveness and capability of new or modified manufacturing processes
• Track project performance, identify risks and barriers, and coordinate appropriate actions to maintain progress toward business objectives
• Apply Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, root-cause analysis, and other structured problem-solving methodologies
• Lead equipment selection, specification, installation, qualification, and process validation activities
• Develop and optimize processes to improve safety, quality, productivity, capacity, cost, and overall equipment effectiveness
• Lead manufacturing engineering projects from concept through implementation, validation, and production launch
• Translate complex technical issues and engineering recommendations into clear business impacts, risks, opportunities, and actionable decisions
• Evaluate manufacturing processes and data to identify opportunities for process capability, efficiency, and cost improvements
• Provide technical leadership and subject-matter expertise for manufacturing processes and engineering projects
• Use manufacturing data and performance metrics to drive fact-based decisions and continuous improvement
• Identify and implement new technologies, methods, and best practices to improve manufacturing capabilities
• Communicate project status, technical risks, recommendations, and results to leadership and cross-functional stakeholders
• Adapt communication and presentation styles to effectively communicate technical information to engineers, operators, management, and executive leadership
• Take accountability for assigned project or team deliverables and ensure commitments are achieved within established timelines and requirement

Compensation Range: $115,700 - $150,500

The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training.

Skills and Experience:

Required Qualifications

• 8 plus years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 6 years and a master’s degree; or a PhD with 3 years of experience; or equivalent experience.
• Strong experience in manufacturing process development, optimization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex engineering projects from concept through implementation and production
• Proficiency with engineering documentation, data analysis, and standard manufacturing engineering tools
• Strong technical communication, presentation, influencing, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to independently determine appropriate engineering methods, procedures, and evaluation criteria for complex assignments.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and data analysis tools

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of statistical analysis and process control methods
• Experience with simulation software, or facility layout tools
• Experience in defense manufacturing environments
• Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or similar platforms
• Experience with implementing automation tooling and equipment in a manufacturing environment.

Citizenship Requirements:

Must be a U.S. citizen. Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Drug-Free Workplaces:

Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug-free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Benefits:

Saab provides an excellent working environment offering professional growth opportunities, competitive wages, work-life balance, a business casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits.

Highlights include:

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents

• Generous paid time off, including 8 designated holidays

• 401(k) with employer contributions

• Tuition assistance and student loan assistance

• Wellness and employee assistance resources

• Employee stock purchase opportunities

• Short-term and long-term disability coverage

About Us:

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring purpose, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in ten U.S. locations.

Saab is a company where we see diversity as an asset and offer unlimited opportunities for advancing in your career. We are also a company that respects each person’s needs and encourage employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work. Saab values diversity and is an Affirmative Action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Saab is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran, disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.