Principal Manufacturing Engineer (Onsite)

• Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 5 years of experience
• Experience developing or maintaining standard work, manufacturing processes, and technical documentation.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing methods (assembly, machining, electronics, testing, or similar).
• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies (ACE, Lean, Six Sigma, or equivalent).

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial, or related discipline).
• Experience in aerospace or other highly regulated manufacturing environments.
• Background supporting technical training, workforce development, or capability modeling.
• Experience with DFM, PFMEA, control plans, and validation processes.
• Experience supporting cross-functional standardization or modernization initiatives.
• Experience supporting new equipment deployment.
• Experience partnering with IT or Operational Technology (OT) for connectivity support

At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.

Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

The Principal Manufacturing Engineer will support the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of standardized manufacturing processes, documentation, and training frameworks across multiple Collins sites. This role partners closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Digital Technology to drive consistency, readiness, and effective adoption of manufacturing standards aligned to Collins strategic objectives.

This role is onsite and can be based in either Cedar Rapids, IA or Phoenix, AZ or Charlette, NC. While these are the preferred locations, we are open to considering other Collins sites that this position regularly interacts with. This role may also be eligible for relocation assistance. This role may have up to 20% travel.

• →Contribute to the creation, improvement, and maintenance of manufacturing standards, processes, work instructions, and related documentation.
• →Support alignment of manufacturing standards with digital transformation initiatives, including MES, PLM, and digital work instruction platforms.
  Assist in developing workforce capability models, skills matrices, certification criteria, and technical training processes.
• →Evaluate current manufacturing practices to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement.
• →Provide technical expertise in modern manufacturing methods and digital tools.
• →Support implementation of standard processes, tooling strategies, and manufacturing capability improvements across sites.
• →Collaborate with cross-functional partners to ensure consistent deployment of manufacturing best practices.
• →Contribute to team planning, continuous improvement activities, and roadmap execution.

• →Become familiar with Collins Aerospace sites, products, and manufacturing processes.
• →Work cohesively with others of different backgrounds in the Advanced Operations Engineering and other organizations.
• →You will gain technical leadership experience through mentorship opportunities and exposure to real-world situations that will help advance your career.
• →Learn new skills or sharpen existing skills through learning tools and other development opportunities. 

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• Demonstrated ability to support process improvements and operational readiness.
• Ability to work with cross-functional teams across multiple sites.
• Strong communication, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Systems-thinking mindset with ability to collaborate across organizational boundaries.