Manufacturing Engineer

Natilus is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to join our engineering team in San Diego, CA. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and implementing manufacturing processes, supporting aircraft fabrication and assembly, and ensuring engineering designs can be efficiently translated into high-quality, flight-ready hardware. You will work closely with design engineers, technicians, suppliers, and cross-functional teams to develop manufacturing solutions that support the development and production of our blended-wing-body aircraft. This is a hands-on opportunity to contribute directly to aircraft development, establish manufacturing processes, and help build the foundation for future production operations.

·         Develop and  implement manufacturing processes for aircraft structures, mechanical systems, and assemblies.

·         Collaborate with design engineering teams to ensure designs are manufacturable, cost-effective, and suitable for assembly and integration.

·         Develop manufacturing plans, work instructions, assembly procedures, and production documentation.

·         Support prototype fabrication, aircraft assembly, integration, and testing activities.

·         Design and develop manufacturing tooling, fixtures, jigs, and assembly aids.

·         Identify and resolve manufacturing challenges related to materials, tolerances, fabrication methods, and assembly processes.

·         Work with suppliers and vendors to evaluate manufacturing capabilities, resolve technical issues, and ensure component quality.

·         Support inspection, quality control, and verification activities to ensure compliance with engineering requirements.

·         Participate in design reviews and provide manufacturing input throughout the product development lifecycle.

·         Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing efficiency, reduce costs, and streamline production processes.

·         Support the transition from prototype development to repeatable manufacturing and production processes.

·         Work directly with engineering and technical teams to troubleshoot manufacturing and assembly issues.

·         Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline.

·         3+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering within aerospace or aviation industry.

·         Experience developing manufacturing processes, assembly procedures, and production documentation.

·         Experience with composite structures, metallic aircraft structures, or both.

·         Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing standards and quality systems, including AS9100.

·         Experience designing manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and assembly aids.

·         Proficiency with CAD software such as Siemens NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks.

·         Strong understanding of mechanical fabrication, machining, assembly techniques, and manufacturing tolerances.

·         Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications.

·         Familiarity with GD&T and engineering change processes.

·         Experience working collaboratively with design engineers, manufacturing technicians, and suppliers.

·         Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced engineering environment.

·         Willingness to take a hands-on approach to manufacturing challenges and aircraft development.

·         Experience in aircraft manufacturing, prototype development, or experimental aircraft programs.

·         Experience supporting aircraft integration, ground testing, or flight-test preparation.

·         Experience establishing manufacturing processes within an early-stage aerospace or hardware development company.