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