Engineering Manager

Engineering Manager Stevens Point, WI | Full-Time | On-Site About the Role: We are seeking an experienced Engineering Manager to help establish and scale engineering operations within a growing aerospace propulsion manufacturing facility. This role begins as a highly technical individual contributor responsible for building the engineering foundation for a new production site, supporting New Product Introduction (NPI), and partnering closely with Operations and Quality to develop robust manufacturing and test processes. As production ramps from startup through full-rate manufacturing, the position evolves into a leadership role responsible for building and leading a team of Manufacturing and Propulsion Engineers. This is a unique opportunity for an engineering leader who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, developing scalable manufacturing systems, and building engineering organizations from the ground up. The successful candidate will play a critical role in improving first-pass yield, eliminating manufacturing variability, and supporting next-generation aerospace propulsion technologies. Responsibilities: Lead engineering support for turbine engine assembly, integration, testing, and manufacturing operations. Partner with Operations and Quality to establish standardized assembly, inspection, and production processes during facility startup. Analyze engineering drawings, specifications, work instructions, and inherited product definitions to improve manufacturability and production consistency. Develop variation reduction strategies through tolerance analysis, critical-to-quality identification, and robust process controls. Support New Product Introduction (NPI), low-rate initial production, and full-rate manufacturing initiatives. Troubleshoot complex mechanical, manufacturing, and test issues involving turbine engines and propulsion systems. Lead Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA), 8D problem solving, fault tree analysis, and failure investigations. Participate in Design FMEA (DFMEA), Process FMEA (PFMEA), control plan development, and manufacturing risk assessments. Improve first-pass yield (FPY), reduce manufacturing variability, and increase process capability across production operations. Develop and maintain engineering documentation including assembly procedures, work instructions, process documentation, and engineering changes. Recruit, mentor, and lead Manufacturing Engineers and Propulsion Engineers as the engineering organization grows. Train technicians on engineering intent, assembly procedures, testing methods, and failure mode recognition. Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Quality to support production objectives. Drive Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and operational excellence initiatives focused on throughput, quality, and manufacturing efficiency. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline. Minimum of 7 years of experience supporting aerospace manufacturing, propulsion systems, gas turbine engines, or complex electromechanical products. Demonstrated experience transitioning products from New Product Introduction (NPI) into production manufacturing. Strong experience supporting turbine engine assembly, balancing, testing, and mechanical troubleshooting. Experience with GD&T, tolerance stack-up analysis, variation reduction, and manufacturing process development. Working knowledge of DFMEA, PFMEA, control plans, Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA), and structured problem-solving methodologies. Experience improving first-pass yield, manufacturing quality, and production efficiency. Proven ability to lead cross-functional engineering initiatives within a manufacturing environment. Strong leadership, communication, analytical, and project management skills. Desired Qualifications: Experience with turbojet, turbofan, gas turbine, or aerospace propulsion systems. Previous leadership experience managing Manufacturing Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, or Test Engineers. Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt, or equivalent continuous improvement certification. Experience within aerospace, defense, aviation, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments. Familiarity with AS9100 quality systems and aerospace manufacturing standards. Experience supporting startup manufacturing operations or greenfield facility launches. Demonstrated success improving production throughput, manufacturing capability, and engineering scalability. Why Join Us? This is a rare opportunity to help build and scale a new aerospace manufacturing operation from the ground up. You'll have the opportunity to shape engineering processes, build a high-performing technical team, and directly influence the successful transition from startup operations to full-rate production. In addition to competitive compensation, the role offers bonus potential, equity participation, relocation assistance, and significant long-term career growth within an innovative, mission-driven organization focused on advanced aerospace propulsion technologies.