Job Posting: Senior Prototype & Manufacturing Engineer
Location: Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD), Lakehurst, NJ (Joint Base MDL)
Clearance Required: Active DoD Secret
Schedule: Full-time, 0600–1530 M–F (some flexibility 0500–1730); Telework optional (up to 20%)
About the Role
We are seeking a highly experienced Engineer, Prototype & Manufacturing Senior to support the Prototype, Manufacturing and Test Department (PMTD) at NAWCAD Lakehurst. This position plays a critical role in the development, prototyping, manufacturing, and sustainment of Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment (ALRE) and Support Equipment (SE) systems. Programs include EMALS, AAG, ARC, and other mission-critical ALRE systems that directly support U.S. Navy fleet readiness.
This is a hands-on role requiring both engineering expertise and a deep understanding of manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate will bring advanced knowledge in manufacturing technology, prototyping, electrical/electronic systems, and Aircraft Platform Interface (API) systems.
Responsibilities
- Apply advanced engineering principles to support manufacturing, prototyping, and testing of ALRE and SE systems.
- Conduct technical analyses, data acquisition, and documentation of test results.
- Perform design reviews, manufacturability assessments, and recommend design improvements.
- Support engineering investigations of equipment/material failures and propose corrective actions.
- Manufacture proof-of-concept prototypes, production equipment, and test fixtures.
- Support installation, modification, and checkout of ALRE and SE systems shipboard and ashore.
- Develop and improve electronic manufacturing processes including printed wiring board assemblies.
- Conduct QA verification, inspections, and vendor assessments to ensure conformance to specifications.
- Support ISO-9001 quality management activities and document control.
- Utilize and support the J.E.D.I. system (VB.net, SQL Server, Crystal Reports) for workflow, project management, and reporting.
- Collaborate with production, quality, and engineering teams to ensure projects meet cost, schedule, and performance objectives.
Required Qualifications
- Education: Master’s degree in Electrical, Electronics, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering from an accredited institution.
- Experience:
- Minimum 10 years of experience in manufacturing of equipment.
- Comprehensive knowledge of manufacturing processes including electrical/electronic systems, analog/digital components, printed circuit card design/manufacture, and power distribution/loading.
- At least 3 years of specialized experience with prototyping, production, repair, and overhaul of Aircraft Platform Interface (API) systems, equipment, and components.
- Demonstrated knowledge of advancements in manufacturing technology and ability to assess their impact on API equipment manufacturing.
- Security Clearance: Active DoD Secret (required at start).
Desired Skills
- Experience with reverse engineering, prototyping, and producibility engineering.
- Familiarity with QA processes including ISO-9001 compliance.
- Hands-on background supporting shipboard installations of ALRE/SE systems.
- Strong communication skills for documentation, reporting, and cross-team collaboration.
Why Join Us?
- Opportunity to directly support U.S. Navy mission-critical programs.
- Engage in cutting-edge prototype and manufacturing work that impacts fleet readiness.
- Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.
- Work within a collaborative engineering environment with advanced technologies.
Apply now if you meet all qualifications and have the expertise to support this critical Navy program.