Manufacturing Engineer

Join Our Mission-Driven Team

At Applied Companies, we don t just manufacture products, we create mission-critical, combat-proven thermal management solutions and pressure vessels that support defense, aerospace, and high-tech industrial applications. Our work ensures soldiers, radar systems, directed energy weapons, and satellite transport solutions operate in extreme conditions with precision, reliability, and excellence. If you re a Manufacturing Engineer looking for a high-impact role in a dynamic, fast-paced, and growth-oriented environment, this is your opportunity to make a difference.

Position Summary

As a Manufacturing Engineer, you ll own the optimization of manufacturing processes, drive continuous improvement, and support the development of next-generation ruggedized HVAC, cooling, and thermal management systems. You will work cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness while ensuring our products meet military, defense, and aerospace standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and enhance manufacturing processes for high-performance HVAC and cooling systems.
• Optimize production workflows, ensuring efficiency, repeatability, and compliance with AS9100, ISO 9001, and MIL-STD requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and advanced process control methodologies.
• Partner with Engineering to ensure designs are optimized for manufacturability (DFM) and assembly (DFA).
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and work instructions.
• Investigate and resolve production issues through root cause analysis and corrective actions (RCCA).
• Assess and scale production capacity to meet demand while reducing waste and inefficiencies.
• Interface with Quality and Regulatory teams, ensuring compliance with military, aerospace, and defense standards.
• Develop Work Order Routers in the ERP system to capture all necessary operations, processes, labor hours, and inspections.
• Implement automation and digital manufacturing tools where applicable to improve efficiency and consistency.
• Train and mentor production staff on manufacturing best practices and technical procedures.
• Run Kaizen events to foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Collaborate with Supply Chain to resolve supplier issues and qualify new vendors.

Who You Are

You re a results-driven, solutions-focused Manufacturing Engineer who thrives in a fast-moving, hands-on manufacturing environment. You re passionate about precision engineering, problem-solving, and making an impact in mission-critical industries.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, preferably in defense, aerospace, or high-tech industrial environments.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and other 3D modeling software.
• Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement.
• Familiarity with AS9100, ISO 9001, and military quality standards.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and technical reporting skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance as required.
• A proactive, hands-on approach to problem-solving in a high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge in HVAC systems, thermal management, and complex mechanical assemblies.
• Experience with GD&T and sheet metal design for manufacturability.
• Working knowledge of material and production planning in ERP systems.
• Familiarity with Six Sigma tools such as PFMEA, DOE, SPC, and Capability Analysis.
• Ability to drive cross-functional collaboration and influence process improvements.

Why Join Applied Companies?

• Impact: Your work directly supports warfighters, aerospace programs, and mission-critical applications.
• Innovation: Work on cutting-edge technologies and advanced thermal management solutions.
• Growth: We re a fast-growing, dynamic company where your contributions drive real results.
• Culture: We foster a collaborative, innovative, and performance-driven environment.
• Benefits: Competitive salary, medical, dental, vision, 401K match, and profit-sharing.

Take the Next Step

Join Applied Companies and be a part of something bigger. Apply today and help shape the future of mission-critical thermal management solutions!

ABOUT APPLIED COMPANIES

Applied Companies, Inc. is a Southern California manufacturer of ruggedized Environmental Control Units (ECU s) and Pressure Vessels for tactical military systems. As a small company, Applied Companies relies on the capabilities and good judgement of its people. We provide a pleasant, professional, and dynamic entrepreneurial work environment where creativity is encouraged. Every person at Applied is expected to help when and where needed. We have been in business since 1958 and offer a competitive salary and benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision, along with a generous 401K match and profit-sharing program. Veteran-Founded | Woman-Owned.