Manufacturing Specialist I - IV

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet-powered subscale targets has established us as a go-to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price.

At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

Job purpose of Manufacturing Specialist is to develop lean concepts and tools that can be used across the enterprise and to support the development of Operations leadership to effectively apply those concepts and tools to address problems and to make improvements within their businesses.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The duties and responsibilities listed below apply to all levels of Manufacturing Specialist.

• Lead resolution of technical and process problems, initiate/execute/closure of quality actions for equipment/process modifications.
• Work with the plant support to organize Six Sigma/Kaizen projects. This includes project selection, justification, planning, training, execution, and project reporting.
• Responsible for developing and maintaining standards for key areas. This includes working with counterparts to ensure cohesive standards are maintained.
• Member/Lead of project teams for technical transfer or new product scale-up.
• Lead closure of process deviations, investigations, and corrective actions.
• Identify, develop, and implement process improvements, equipment improvements/upgrades.
• Coordinate conference calls with plant personnel to ensure proper knowledge transfer. This includes best practices sharing and training.
• Establish good working relationship with support and pillar leaders. This includes answering questions and providing assistance in a timely manner.
• Insure intradepartmental and cross-functional alignment of procedures and best practices.
• Identify corrective actions to prevent recurrent deviations.
• Participate in cross-functional teams to solve production issues.
• Serves as a change agent to challenge the existing processes in place. Uses data to communicate and support the opportunities that exist.
• Interfaces with all supporting functions in the plants for the necessary support of the teams.
• Provides leadership to the Project Team.
• Draft and revise MOs as necessary.
• Develop and implement training best practices to ensure compliance. Works with customer released or Kratos released drawings and/or CAD models, engineering BOMs, and other engineering specifications to assist with development, implementation, and improvement of manufacturing processes.
• Develops and documents the manufacturing process in detail with an emphasis on visual media, ease of training, and standardized format.
• Designs, coordinates and validates workstation layouts with an emphasis on ergonomics, single piece or small batch flow, visual aids, Poke Yoke (mistake proofing), 5S, and zero-defect policies.
• Conducts time & motion studies to establish standard cycle times for each part number.
• Acts quickly to lead, develop, and implement solutions in cooperation with plant Six Sigma/Kaizen teams.
• May have contact with customers, vendors, and/or consultants.
• Tracks time spent on jobs and enters it electronically.
• Other duties as assigned and relevant to overall position.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

None

COMPENSATION:

$70,000 - $130,000

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Required:

Manufacturing Specialist I

• Technical: Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and equipment; familiarity with CAD software is a plus.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to troubleshoot simple manufacturing issues and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Communication: Good verbal and written communication skills for collaborating with team members and reporting on daily tasks.

Manufacturing Specialist II

• Technical: Proficient in using manufacturing tools and machinery; experience with quality control and process optimization.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze and resolve moderate technical issues; experience in developing and implementing process improvements.
• Project Management: Capable of managing small to medium-sized projects, including coordinating with other departments and meeting deadlines.

Manufacturing Specialist III

• Technical: Advanced knowledge of manufacturing systems and equipment; expertise in advanced manufacturing techniques and technologies.
• Problem-Solving: Proven track record of diagnosing complex issues and devising effective solutions; ability to mentor junior staff in problem-solving.
• Strategic Planning: Experience in developing and executing manufacturing strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.

Manufacturing Specialist IV

• Technical: Expert-level understanding of manufacturing processes, systems integration, and cutting-edge technologies; ability to innovate and implement new solutions. Journeymen level, hands on experience in the particular field of focus.
• Problem-Solving: Demonstrated ability to lead large-scale troubleshooting efforts and drive continuous improvement across multiple teams.
• Leadership & Strategy: Proven ability to assist lead cross-functional teams, influence strategic decisions, and manage high-impact projects that align with organizational goals.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Required:

Each successive level of Manufacturing Specialist builds on the identified typical qualifications listed for the previous level(s) Manufacturing Specialist.

Manufacturing Specialist I

• Requires 1 - 5 years of related technical experience in a related field
• High School Degree or Equivalent. Entry level technical skills focused on hand tooling, basic mechanics, and methods
• Basic skills in math.
• Computer skills: MS Office, MRP.
• May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Manufacturing Specialist II

• Requires 5 - 10 years of related technical experience in a related field (Mechanical or Industrial Engineering or Manufacturing Operations Management with direct experience implementing lean manufacturing practices preferred).
• Experience implementing Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen principles in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to analyze problems and recommend effective solutions, then lead the implementation effort hands-on as well as by facilitating change acceptance with all levels of personnel.
• May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Manufacturing Specialist III

• Required 10 - 15 years of specific, related technical and hands on experience in a particular trade or field of study.
• May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Manufacturing Specialist IV

• Required 15+ years of specific, related technical and hands on experience in a particular trade or field of study.
• May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Preferred:

• Experience with lean/Six Sigma
• Some experience using CATIA v5.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, kneel, bend, crouch, sit, hold, grasp, type, talk, and hear. Some lifting (not over 25 lbs.).
• May work extended hours or weekends.
• Some local travel may be required.
• Office and manufacturing environment with potential exposure to uncontrolled climate conditions and potential exposure to noise, dust and hazardous chemicals.
• Employee may generate, handle, manage, or work around hazardous materials and hazardous wastes.

• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

N/A

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