Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Santa Clarita, California
Job TypeDirect Hire

Confidential Opportunity

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Top Engineer

A confidential employer in Santa Clarita, California, seeks a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to lead a data‑driven transformation of manufacturing cost structures. This high‑impact role offers a direct path to Engineering Manager and reports to an inspiring leader.

Role Snapshot

CompanyConfidential Employer
LocationSanta Clarita, California, USA
IndustryDefense
Compensation$140,000 - $165,000 per year
Employment TypeFull Time/Direct Hire
Remote StatusNo Remote
Total Openings1
Work Experience6 - 18 years

Opportunity

This is more than a manufacturing engineering role—it’s a chance to redefine how a growing aerospace and defense supplier approaches cost, quality, and scalability. As the Senior Manufacturing Engineer, you will be at the forefront of a digital transformation, moving the organization from tribal knowledge to a robust, data‑driven framework that informs every business decision. Your impact will be felt across quoting, pricing, margin analysis, and operational strategy, making you a key player in the company’s future success.

In this position, you will dive deep into the production floor, analyzing and optimizing processes for rubber, plastic, and composite components used in critical defense applications. You’ll lead the charge on complex automation projects, design fixtures, and implement systems that enhance repeatability and quality. Every day, you’ll collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure new products are launched seamlessly and existing lines run at peak performance. Your expertise in DOE, statistical analysis, and ERP systems will be central to turning raw data into actionable manufacturing intelligence.

The ideal candidate is a hands‑on engineer with 5 to 10 years of experience who has a passion for process improvement and a track record of leading change. You are analytical, comfortable with both the shop floor and the boardroom, and skilled at translating complex technical challenges into clear business outcomes. You have a degree in engineering, strong skills in solid modeling and data tools like Excel or Power BI, and a history of successful automation projects. Most importantly, you are ready to step into a role with high visibility and a direct path to engineering management.

If you’re looking for a role where your work directly shapes the company’s bottom line and sets you up for rapid career advancement, this is it. You’ll report to a mentor who is known for developing talent, and you’ll be on a trajectory to VP‑level responsibilities. The company is eager to hire—apply today to start a conversation and see how you can make your mark in a confidential, high‑impact manufacturing environment.

Non-Negotiables

  • A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering is required
  • You must have 5 to 10 years of experience in manufacturing engineering or operations analysis
  • Strong understanding of BOMs, routings, labor standards, and manufacturing workflows is essential
  • Experience with ERP/MRP systems is non‑negotiable
  • The ability to lead cross‑functional initiatives and drive standardization is mandatory
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate technical details into business impact are required

What's In It For You

  • This position offers a competitive annual salary range of $140,000 to $165,000 plus a 10% bonus
  • Relocation assistance is provided for the right candidate
  • You will report to an inspiring boss and have a clear career path to Engineering Manager and beyond
  • The role comes with the opportunity to lead high‑impact transformation projects from tribal knowledge to data‑driven systems
  • You will work in a collaborative environment across Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and Finance
  • The company values innovation, continuous improvement, and professional growth

Responsibilities

  • Develop and standardize the company’s manufacturing cost structure for accurate quoting and margin analysis
  • Transform the existing costing approach into a modern, data‑driven system that supports operational decisions
  • Optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and repeatability using DOE and statistical analysis
  • Provide engineering support for production operations and new program launches, including first article inspections
  • Design, implement, and support tooling, fixtures, production aids, and automated manufacturing systems
  • Lead complex automation and capital projects from requirements definition through vendor selection and implementation

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience designing molds for manufacturing is highly preferred
  • Rubber and silicone experience is a strong plus
  • Aerospace manufacturing or highly regulated environment experience is desirable
  • Familiarity with AS9100 requirements will set you apart
  • Lean or Six Sigma certification is preferred

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Ready for the Next Step?

Apply Today if this role fits your background and the kind of engineering work you want to own next.

Top Engineer

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