Manufacturing Engineer

At Heart Aerospace we develop the ES-30, a regional hybrid-electric airplane with a capacity of 30 passengers, an electric zero-emission range of 200 km and an extended hybrid range of 400 km. Heart is targeting type certification of the ES-30 by the end of the decade. Your mission We are seeking a hands-on, driven Manufacturing Engineer to lead key builds for the ES-30 hybrid-electric aircraft. As we continue to expand our vertical integration, this role offers a unique opportunity to take full ownership of manufacturing process development, from design to achieving production rate.  You will play a critical role in Heart’s success, working closely with technicians, design engineers, and supply chain partners to bring complex components and assemblies from prototype to scalable production. This is a highly collaborative, fast-paced role at the core of our mission to revolutionize regional air travel.  Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:   Process Development & Optimization  Design and implement scalable manufacturing processes for aircraft structures, propulsion systems, avionics, batteries, and other critical subsystems (multiple roles are open across teams)  Develop and optimize workflows to improve build efficiency, quality, and repeatability  Proactively identify and resolve production bottlenecks using root cause analysis and continuous improvement techniques   Tooling & Equipment  Design and specify custom tooling, fixtures, and solutions to support precision assembly and fabrication  Collaborate with external vendors and internal teams to source or fabricate required equipment  Support automation initiatives and ergonomic improvements across the manufacturing floor   Prototyping & Production Builds  Lead the execution of prototype builds and transition processes into low- and high-rate production  Work closely with technicians on first article builds, ensuring safe, efficient, and repeatable methods  Implement in-line quality checks and provide real-time troubleshooting during assembly   Cross-Functional Collaboration  Partner with Design Engineering to drive DFM/DFA (Design for Manufacturability/Assembly) feedback  Develop and execute sourcing strategies by assessing supplier capabilities, and managing outsourcing timelines and budgets to ensure program alignment  Ensure quality is built into the product by defining clear inspection criteria and implementing fast, cost-effective corrective actions   Documentation & Standards  Create and maintain detailed work instructions, process documentation, and standard operating procedures (SOPs)  Contribute to the development of manufacturing standards and best practices as the company scales  Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and quality requirements   Skills & Requirements  Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent experience)  3+ years of experience in a fast-paced manufacturing or production environment (internship or co-op experience counts)  Proficiency in CAD (e.g., CATIA, NX, SolidWorks)   Strong understanding of materials, GD&T, machining, welding, composites, and/or assembly techniques  Experience working with cross-functional teams in design, quality, and production  Bias toward action, attention to detail, and a passion for hands-on problem-solving   These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have Experience in aerospace, automotive, eVTOL, or electric propulsion manufacturing  Exposure to high-voltage systems, thermal management, or battery integration  Base Pay Range:  $124,000—$176,000 USD   Offices: Los Angeles, California, United States (Torrance);