Industrial Engineer

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.

To help achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking Industrial Engineer will play a key role in supporting manufacturing operations by optimizing processes, improving production efficiency, and assisting with the implementation and ongoing use of the Manufacturing Execution System (MES). Reporting to the Manufacturing Engineering (ME) Manager, this position will work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to ensure that MES solutions and process improvements align with operational goals. The ideal candidate will bring strong industrial engineering skills, hands-on experience with MES systems, and a continuous improvement mindset to help drive productivity and quality on the shop floor.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Contribute to a cross-functional team by supporting manufacturing process optimization and MES (Manufacturing Execution System) adoption on the production floor.
• Assist with the configuration, testing, and deployment of MES solutions in collaboration with the ME Manager and IT teams.
• Support the integration of MES with existing manufacturing processes, ensuring accurate data capture and process alignment.
• Generate and maintain process documentation, work instructions, and MES user guides to support production teams.
• Provide day-to-day MES user support, troubleshooting, and basic training for operators and supervisors.
• Analyze production and MES data to identify process bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and improvement opportunities.
• Apply industrial engineering methods such as time studies, workflow analysis, and value stream mapping to optimize manufacturing operations.
• Participate in root-cause analysis of production issues and assist in implementing corrective actions using MES data.
• Collaborate with quality, production, and IT teams to ensure MES solutions support quality and compliance requirements.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives, including lean manufacturing projects and kaizen events.
• Assist in the evaluation and implementation of shop floor automation and digital transformation projects.
• Provide technical input to the ME Manager and project teams on MES performance, process changes, and improvement opportunities.
• Participate in project planning and provide schedule and resource inputs as required.
• Maintain regular communication with the ME Manager regarding MES progress, issues, and opportunities.
• Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to meeting team and organizational goals.
• Travel, as needed, to support MES rollouts and manufacturing operations at other sites.
• Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity, and fulfillment of commitments

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of industrial engineering principles and manufacturing process optimization.
• Experience supporting MES implementation, configuration, or user support in a manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, process mapping, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience generating and maintaining manufacturing documentation and work instructions.
• Proficient in data analysis and reporting using Excel or similar tools.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Experience designing and producing manufacturing documentation
• Ability to work on your own initiative and prioritize tasking to fit within the business goals
• Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with specific MES platforms.
• Experience with ERP/MES integration and shop floor automation.
• Lean Six Sigma certification or formal continuous improvement training.
• Experience in a regulated manufacturing environment (e.g., automotive, aerospace, medical)

Required Computer Skills

• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).
• Familiarity with 3D CAD or process simulation tools.
• MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

Preferred Computer Skills

• Computer Aided Design tools - CATIA V5 or SOLIDWORKS

Education and Experience

• Level II ($101,000-$146,500): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 2-5 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
• Sr-level ($120,500-158,000): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

• Staff-level ($157,000-$206,000): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 10-20 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.

Benefits and our location(s) : 

• Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
• Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
• 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
• Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.

Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles.  The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.  

Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You’re within a half day’s drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers. 

Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state’s best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke’s in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won’t find anywhere else in the United States.

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment.  For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law  :

https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf