Manufacturing Engineer III

Position Summary

The Manufacturing Engineer III will develop, implement, and continuously improve manufacturing processes to support the efficient production of advanced drone systems in the aerospace and defense sector. This role is responsible for translating engineering designs into robust, high-quality, and cost-effective manufacturing methods, while ensuring compliance with industry and regulatory standards. Key responsibilities include providing Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Test (DFT) guidance, designing jigs and fixtures, and driving process improvements to achieve target yields, cycle times, and production readiness. The ideal candidate has a strong background in aerospace manufacturing and thrives in optimizing processes, leveraging automation, and enabling successful new product introductions in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and implement manufacturing and test processes for new and existing UAV systems.
• Translate engineering designs into efficient, repeatable, and cost-effective manufacturing methods.
• Provide DFM and DFT guidance to design engineering teams, ensuring product designs are optimized for manufacturability and testability.
• Design, procure, and validate production jigs, fixtures, tooling, and automation solutions to improve efficiency and quality.
• Provide direct support to production teams to resolve process issues, reduce variability, and improve throughput.
• Collaborate with design engineering to ensure new products are designed for manufacturability and production ramp-up readiness.
• Support New Product Introduction (NPI) by ensuring process readiness, operator training, and smooth handoff to production.
• Lead implementation of lean manufacturing initiatives such as 5S, value stream mapping, standard work, and Kaizen events.
• Prepare and maintain detailed manufacturing documentation including work instructions, SOPs, PFMEAs, and control plans.
• Drive the integration of automation, advanced manufacturing technologies, and Industry 4.0 solutions to enhance efficiency.
• Conduct root cause analysis and corrective actions to address quality or yield issues.
• Perform time studies, cost analysis, and capacity planning to support production planning and resource allocation.
• Ensure compliance with AS9100, ISO, ITAR, and other aerospace/defense regulatory requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• 5–9 years of aerospace manufacturing engineering experience (UAV, aerospace, defense, or high-precision manufacturing preferred).
• Proficiency in CAD and manufacturing software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, ERP/MRP systems).
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing methods such as machining, composites, assembly, and automation.
• Expertise in lean manufacturing principles, process validation, and statistical process control.
• Strong problem-solving, data analysis, and communication skills.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and aerospace standards.
• Familiarity with Department of Defense and aerospace compliance standards.
• Experience with automation systems or Industry 4.0 technologies.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and PMP preferred

Additional Desired Qualifications

• Innovative mindset with a passion for continuous improvement.
• Strong project management and cross-functional leadership experience.
• Ability to design, implement, and improve manufacturing processes for EVT, DVT, PVT, LRIP, and production volumes.
• Leading Design for Manufacturing (DFM/DFA) and Design for Assembly assessments.
• Familiarity with AS9100, IPC-A-610, IPC-620, ISO9001, MIL-STD, FAA guidance, or other aerospace-specific standards.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Must be able to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and airborne particles
• May be required to stand, walk, and lift up to 25 pounds regularly

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

Compensation: $132k - $176k DOE, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.