Industrial Engineer

About the role

Stratolaunch is focused on advancing technology that enables operational testing at speeds exceeding Mach

5. Our Talon testbeds provide reusable and cost-effective solutions for consistent access to hypersonic environments. We are committed to delivering crucial flight data that supports system performance validation and accelerates technology deployment, contributing to national security advancements.

We are looking for an Industrial Engineer to enhance our manufacturing operations by refining processes, boosting production efficiency, and facilitating the implementation of our Manufacturing Execution System (MES). This role reports to the Manufacturing Engineering Manager and involves collaboration with various teams to ensure that MES solutions and process enhancements meet operational objectives. The ideal candidate will possess solid industrial engineering expertise, practical experience with MES systems, and a mindset geared towards continuous improvement to elevate productivity and quality on the production floor.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance manufacturing processes and promote the adoption of MES on the production floor.
• Assist in the setup, testing, and rollout of MES solutions alongside the ME Manager and IT teams.
• Ensure the integration of MES with current manufacturing workflows, maintaining accurate data capture and alignment.
• Create and update process documentation, work instructions, and MES user manuals to support production staff.
• Provide ongoing support for MES users, including troubleshooting and basic training for operators and supervisors.
• Analyze production and MES data to pinpoint bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
• Utilize industrial engineering techniques such as time studies, workflow analysis, and value stream mapping to enhance manufacturing operations.
• Engage in root-cause analysis for production challenges and assist in implementing corrective measures using MES insights.
• Work with quality, production, and IT teams to ensure MES solutions align with quality and compliance standards.
• Contribute to continuous improvement projects, including lean manufacturing initiatives and kaizen events.
• Aid in the assessment and execution of shop floor automation and digital transformation efforts.
• Provide technical insights to the ME Manager and project teams regarding MES functionality, process modifications, and improvement prospects.
• Participate in project planning and contribute to scheduling and resource allocation as necessary.
• Maintain consistent communication with the ME Manager about MES developments, challenges, and opportunities.
• Exhibit professionalism and integrity while striving to meet team and organizational objectives.
• Travel as needed to assist with MES implementations and manufacturing operations at other locations.

Requirements

• Strong understanding of industrial engineering concepts and manufacturing process optimization.
• Experience in supporting MES implementation, configuration, or user assistance within a manufacturing setting.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles, process mapping, and continuous improvement strategies.
• Proven ability to create and maintain manufacturing documentation and work instructions.
• Proficient in data analysis and reporting using Excel or similar software.
• Capability to work independently, manage priorities, and adapt to evolving demands.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Experience in designing and producing manufacturing documentation.
• Initiative and the ability to prioritize tasks in alignment with business objectives.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities quickly.

Nice to have

• Experience with specific MES platforms.
• Background in ERP/MES integration and shop floor automation.
• Lean Six Sigma certification or formal training in continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience in a regulated manufacturing environment, such as automotive, aerospace, or medical sectors.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency with data visualization tools like Power BI or Tableau.
• Familiarity with 3D CAD or process simulation software.
• Competence in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Practical notes

This position may require operating company vehicles as part of job responsibilities. Stratolaunch offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including a 9/80 work schedule, healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs), paid maternity and parental leave, a 401(k) savings plan with a 50% company match up to $11,500, and tuition reimbursement.

Mojave Air & Spaceport is located near Lancaster/Palmdale, approximately 95 miles north of Los Angeles, providing affordable living with easy access to California's attractions. For those who enjoy city life, Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco are within a half-day drive, offering a variety of entertainment, museums, and dining options.

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. U.S. Citizenship may be necessary for certain positions requiring government clearance.

About the company

High-speed flight test services form the core work of this American aerospace team. Company roots trace to 2011, created by Paul Allen and Burt Rutan to explore air-launched space transport. Home base is Seattle. Earlier collaboration on SpaceShipOne informed the project. New ownership arrived in 2019 through Cerberus Capital Management. Funding remains private. Operations follow a non-traditional defense contractor model, focusing on test missions and system development under continued private investment.