Job Description

As our Lead AIT Production Engineer, you will be responsible for managing the execution of satellite production activities on the shop floor. You will oversee manpower allocation, ensure alignment with planning schedules, and provide real-time insights into floor capabilities and workload.



Acting as the bridge between Manufacturing Engineers and Production Technicians, you will ensure processes are followed, stations are ready, and technicians are well-supported and trained. This role combines technical depth with strong operational and people management, ensuring smooth and efficient AIT execution.

Key Responsibilities

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1. Production Floor & Manpower Management

+ Plan, allocate, and monitor technician workload based on production priorities and schedules.
+ Coordinate daily activities with planners and supervisors to ensure on-time project delivery.
+ Monitor floor capacity and provide real-time updates on workload, bottlenecks, and resource needs.
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2. Technician Oversight & Support

+ Supervise and guide production technicians in assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) activities.
+ Provide hands-on technical support when required, ensuring proper task execution.
+ Oversee and track technician training, ensuring readiness, compliance, and skill development.
+ Foster a culture of safety, discipline, and continuous learning on the production floor.
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3. Production / Test Station Management

+ Ensure production and test stations are operational, calibrated, and compliant with cleanroom requirements.
+ Oversee allocation and readiness of tools, fixtures, and ground support equipment (GSE).
+ Coordinate maintenance and troubleshooting of production stations with engineering and facilities teams.
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4. Process Adherence & Troubleshooting

+ Ensure adherence to work instructions, drawings, SOPs, and quality standards during execution.
+ Act as the first responder for production issues, escalating technical challenges to Manufacturing Engineers as needed.
+ Contribute to root cause analysis and implementation of corrective actions for non-conformances.
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5. Collaboration & Reporting

+ Act as the operational link between planners, engineers, quality, and technicians.
+ Report production progress, manpower usage, and station readiness to supervisors and management.
+ Provide feedback to Manufacturing Engineers on process efficiency and technician challenges.

Qualifications

+ Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing/Production Engineering, or related field. + 4-7 years of relevant experience in aerospace, satellite manufacturing, or high-tech precision industries.
+ Strong understanding of AIT processes, cleanroom protocols, and production practices.
+ Proven experience in managing teams of technicians and production activities.
+ Ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings and SOPs.
+ Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
+ Hands-on problem-solving ability in production environments.

Preferred Qualifications

+ Direct experience in satellite AIT execution. + Knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement practices.
+ Familiarity with ERP/MES production planning systems.
+ Exposure to test environments (thermal, vibration, vacuum).
+ Experience managing production/test stations and GSE.