Production Engineer

Overview

i3 is seeking a Production Engineer to provide production expertise in support of evaluation and qualification of Uncrewed Aircraft Systems. The Production Engineer will be a key member of the engineering team, responsible for supporting all phases of production, from initial prototype builds to low-rate and full-rate production. This role requires a strong understanding of manufacturing processes, quality control, and engineering principles, with a focus on complex systems involving Launched Effects (LE) Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UASs). The Production Engineer will collaborate closely with systems engineers, quality assurance personnel, and contractors to ensure successful and efficient production of high-reliability systems. This position demands a proactive individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and demonstrates a strong ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Responsibilities

• Manufacturing Support: Provide engineering support to manufacturing processes, including government oversight of work instructions, tooling plans, and process flow diagrams.
• Production Issue Resolution: Investigate and resolve production discrepancies, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.
• Design for Manufacturability (DFM) & Design for Assembly (DFA): Participate in DFM/DFA reviews to optimize designs for efficient and cost-effective production.
• Test & Validation Support: Support the development and execution of production test plans and procedures and analyze test data to ensure system performance and reliability.
• Supplier Management: Collaborate with suppliers to ensure component quality and adherence to specifications. May involve Manufacturing Readiness Assessments and supplier audits. Specifically, experience with the procurement of Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) military hardware, navigating rapid prototyping and fielding acquisition processes (e.g., Other Transaction Authority (OTA), rapid fielding initiatives) is highly valued.
• Configuration Management: Maintain accurate configuration control of production documentation and engineering changes.
• Process Improvement: Identify and implement process improvements to enhance production efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Documentation: Prepare and maintain comprehensive production documentation, including manufacturing plans, test reports, and engineering change orders.
• Rapid Prototyping: Support the build and testing of rapid prototypes to validate design concepts and manufacturing processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Qualifications Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Manufacturing, or related field).
• Minimum of five (5) years of production experience. UAS production preferred.
• Program Management Office experience desired.
• U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Active DoD Secret Clearance and the ability to maintain the a clearance
• Experience with manufacturing processes (e.g., machining, composite fabrication, electronics assembly, testing).
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and specifications.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage time effectively in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications Desired:

• Experience with UAV/UAS or missile systems development and production.
• Knowledge of quality control methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, Agile/Lean Manufacturing).
• Familiarity with DoD specifications and standards (MIL-STD, etc.).
• Experience with configuration management tools (e.g., Windchill).
• Experience with root cause analysis methodologies (e.g., 5-Why, Fishbone diagrams)
• Experience with DoD acquisition processes, specifically related to rapid prototyping and fielding initiatives.

Physical Demands:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
• The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• Regular i3 hours are 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, however, additional hours may be required on occasion. Regular and punctual attendance is required.

About i3

i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.

Perks of being a team member owner include:

• Long-term financial security
• Higher job satisfaction
• Greater job security
• Personal and professional growth
• Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:

• Excellent insurance coverage
• 401(k) match
• Generous PTO
• Health and wellness incentives
• Tuition and certification reimbursement
• Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!