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Lead, Composite Manufacturing Engineer

Huntsville, Alabama
Full Time On-site

Summary

Job Description

We are seeking a Lead, CompositeManufacturing Engineer to work at our new state-of-the-art Advanced Manufacturing Facility (AMF) in Huntsville, AL, which will be our inert manufacturing facility for fabrication and assembly of composite rocket motor hardware.

The Lead, CompositeManufacturing Engineer is a Subject Matter Expert (SME) with comprehensive knowledge of job area and in-depth knowledge of project management. They manage large, complex project initiatives of substantial importance to the organization with minimal oversight or direction. They communicate within and outside of the organization to explain and influence changes to practices, processes and approaches. They make significant improvements in processes, systems, or products, and provide input into new products/processes to implement operational plans that have measurable impact on business or functional results.

This is a dynamic team that requires motivated, self-starting individuals with hands-on experience. Manufacturing Engineers lead process management activities and create associated documentation for their assigned processes. They must be able to follow company procedures and requirements for the manufacture of advanced, man-rated, and high value aerospace hardware.

Essential Functions:

  • Champion process improvement projects using Lean Manufacturing methodologies.

  • Lead transition efforts for programs moving from other L3Harris facilities to Huntsville.

  • Train and mentor less experienced engineers on manufacturing processes and best practices.

  • Provide in-depth technical knowledge and guidance on manufacturing processes, equipment, and materials.

  • Stay updated with the latest advancements in manufacturing technology and industry best practices.

  • Evaluate and recommend new equipment and technologies to improve manufacturing capabilities.

  • Identify, analyze, and resolve manufacturing issues and bottlenecks.

  • Perform investigations of nonconforming hardware and implement corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.

  • Implement cost-saving measures without compromising quality or efficiency.

  • Ensure that manufacturing processes adhere to safety regulations and environmental standards.

  • Create detailed work instructions, procedures, PFMEAs, and JSAs that meet design, process, quality, safety, and environmental requirements.

  • Provide shop floor support of advanced composite manufacturing processes.

  • Analyze engineering drawings and specifications in support of developing robust and advanced part and tooling designs.

  • Present fabrication processes at customer readiness reviews and present process changes to customers at change board meetings.

  • Less than 10% travel may be required to support suppliers or other manufacturing sites.

  • Occasional off-shift and weekend work required to support manufacturing schedules.

  • Ability to obtain US Secret Security Clearance.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s Degree and minimum 9 years of prior composite engineering experience.  Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior composite engineering experience.  In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior composite engineering experience.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Hand layup and cure of insulation, composite and/or other materials.

  • Experience writing specifications for new pieces of equipment.

  • Strong GD&T background supporting part validation.

  • CAD modeling experience.

  • Surface preparation for primary substrates to bond rubber or composite materials.

  • Precision assembly of aerospace hardware.

  • Experience with operation of robots, presses, ovens, winders, CNC machines, cutting tables and/or autoclaves.

  • Knowledge of composite materials, including the behavior of different fibers (carbon, glass, aramid) and resin systems.

  • Strong cross-functional communication skills.

  • Strong problem-solving skills.

  • Adaptable to a changing work environment.

#LI-HW1

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

About L3 Harris

L3 Harris

L3 Harris is one of the largest defense and aerospace companies in the United States, delivering advanced technologies that support missions across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains. The company develops communications systems, space payloads, intelligence platforms, electronic warfare capabilities, missile defense technologies, and mission-critical sensors used by the U.S. military, intelligence community, and allied nations around the world.

For job seekers, L3Harris offers opportunities across engineering, software development, cybersecurity, space systems, manufacturing, intelligence, program management, and mission operations. The company is especially attractive to veterans, cleared professionals, and engineers who want to work on advanced technologies that directly support national security. With programs spanning tactical communications, ISR platforms, satellite systems, and defense electronics, employees have the opportunity to contribute to some of the military’s most important capabilities.

Unlike companies focused on a single mission area, L3Harris operates across a diverse portfolio of defense technologies, providing employees exposure to a broad range of programs and technical disciplines. Teams work on everything from secure communications and autonomous systems to space-based sensors and electronic warfare platforms, creating opportunities for both specialization and long-term career growth within the organization.

As governments continue investing in modernization, space capabilities, resilient communications, and advanced sensing technologies, L3Harris remains one of the most important employers in the defense industry. For professionals seeking a mission-driven career with strong growth opportunities, technical challenges, and direct impact on global security, L3Harris continues to stand out as a leading destination in aerospace and defense.

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