Specialist II - Engineering Assistant

Group Description

The Fabrication Engineering Group (Group 72) provides rapid fabrication, assembly, integration, and test of advanced hardware prototypes for national security applications. Examples include the precision machining of fiber mounts for airborne high-energy laser systems, multi-functional structures using additive processes for ground-based radar systems, custom printed circuit boards for space-borne data processing, and highly integrated mechanical packaging for undersea communication terminals. Core mechanical competencies span precision fabrication, additive manufacturing, and 5-axis machining. Core PCB capabilities include automated solder paste dispensers, precise pick-n-place machines, and automated optical inspection systems. Assembly, integration, and test capabilities include integration spaces, clean rooms, vibration testing, thermal testing, and space simulation chambers. The Group focuses on quality management, operational proficiency, and technical excellence.

Job Description

The Group seeks a talented, creative, and motivated assistant staff member to strengthen the Group’s ability to provide rapid and innovative fabrication solutions. The successful candidate will work as part of an interdisciplinary program team providing fabrication expertise, coordinating design for manufacturability reviews, facilitating fabrication activities, and developing fabrication plans that will be executed while working closely with internal shop operations. Responsibilities will include a wide variety of technical activities required to generate conceptual designs and translate those concepts into realized prototypes that demonstrate advanced technology. The successful candidate will have an opportunity to grow in many exciting areas such as program management, research and technology development, operations management, and contribute to the creation of a state-of-the-art fabrication capability through the implementation of advanced digital processes and the design of a new engineering and prototyping facility.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science, or equivalent
• Ability to thrive in a team environment and work independently
• Interest in continual learning of current and future fabrication technologies
• Ability to multi-task and drive issues to closure
• Knowledge of Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Hands-on experience with machine shop operations, including precision machining, diamond turning, polishing, or post-processing techniques
• Experience with additive manufacturing (3D printing) processes and their integration with traditional machining

Preferred Experience (not required)

• Experience utilizing digital engineering methodologies and data systems
• Experience with advanced mechanical and PCB assembly technologies
• Expertise in diamond turning and polishing for precision components
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM software for machining and additive manufacturing
• Knowledge of quality assurance practices for precision and additive manufacturing