Staff Manufacturing Systems Engineer (Level 5)

The Manufacturing Systems Engineer develops requirements, performs technical planning, manufacturing system development/integration, verification and validation, and evaluates cost (implementation, savings and return on investment) and implementation/program risk impacts. Manufacturing systems engineers follow projects through all manufacturing readiness level phases: concept development, design, fabrication/assembly/test at lab level, production environment demo, full production operations implementation, sustainment/maintenance/ continuous improvement. These projects focus on advanced and emerging manufacturing capabilities/digital technologies with the goal of improving overall production manufacturing quality, span times/time to market and reduce cost. Leads project technical proposal/SOW writing & estimating while ensuring systemic conversion of requirements to design, implementation and production validations. Manages project cost and schedule through all phases and execution of transition to production activities of the developed systems to program and functional manufacturing spaces.
Key Responsibilities:

Conduct Manufacturing Readiness Assessments (MRAs) to evaluate production readiness of manufacturing systems, suppliers, and processes at various program milestones.

Develop and maintain MRA plans, schedules, and checklists to ensure comprehensive evaluations.

Assess production processes for compliance with industry standards, program requirements, and contractual obligations (e.g., AS9100, MIL-STD-882, or proprietary requirements).

Identify and analyze risks associated with manufacturing processes, supply chain, materials, and equipment. Propose mitigation strategies to address shortcomings.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, procurement, quality assurance, and program management to verify manufacturability and production maturity.

Evaluate automation, tooling, equipment, and production capabilities relevant to aerospace and defense manufacturing.

Participate in supplier assessments and audits to ensure compliance with program and customer requirements.

Prepare detailed reports and presentations summarizing MRA findings, including recommendations for process improvements and corrective actions.

Monitor the implementation of manufacturing readiness improvements and corrective actions throughout the production lifecycle.

Stay updated on emerging manufacturing technologies, industry trends, and best practices to recommend process optimizations.

Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing processes, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.

This position will work a 9/80 schedule, with every other Friday off.

Basic Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) discipline with 12 years related engineering experience - OR - Master's degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) discipline with 10 years of related engineering experience.

Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government DoD Secret security clearance

Experience performing audits and presenting results to senior staff and customers

Experience with Manufacturing Readiness Assessments & Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRA/MRL)

Familiarity with contracts and requirements

Analytical approach to problem-solving and proven ability to work independently with limited supervision

Able to travel to suppliers 10-20%

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor's in Mechanical or Systems Engineering

Active U.S. Government DoD Secret (or higher) security clearance, current and within scope

Familiarity with Northrop Grumman tools and processes

Experience with Manufacturing Engineering System (MES)

Microsoft Office Suite

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Working at Northrop Grumman is more than just a paycheck. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards and benefits package designed to help you thrive at work and in life. For more information on our Total Rewards package, please visit our Total Rewards site.
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Primary Level Salary Range: $152,900.00 - $229,300.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

Client-provided location(s): Chandler, AZ

Job ID: NorthropGrumman-R10227017

Employment Type: OTHER

Posted: 2026-03-27T20:38:41