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Aerospace Manufacturing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly skilled team of ...

Aerospace Manufacturing SME

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$139K - $251K/yr

Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly skilled team of ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

Description Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly ...

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How much do aerospace manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerospace manufacturing in the United States is $20.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Who are the big 4 in aerospace?

The Big 4 in aerospace typically refer to Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman, which are the largest aerospace and defense contractors globally. These companies design, manufacture, and maintain aircraft, spacecraft, and defense systems, often requiring specialized skills and certifications for aerospace manufacturing roles.

What is aerospace manufacturing?

Aerospace manufacturing is the process of designing, building, and assembling aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and related parts and systems. This industry involves working with advanced materials and technologies to produce components that meet strict safety and performance standards. Aerospace manufacturing includes everything from small precision components to entire airplanes and spacecraft. It is a highly regulated field focused on innovation, quality, and reliability to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo.

Can I make 200k as an aerospace engineer?

Aerospace engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, or working in high-paying industries like defense or space exploration. Salaries vary by location, employer, and level of expertise, with senior engineers and those in managerial roles more likely to reach or exceed this figure.

What is the difference between Aerospace Manufacturing vs Aerospace Engineering?

AspectAerospace ManufacturingAerospace Engineering
Required CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications, associate degrees, or vocational trainingRequires a bachelor's degree or higher in aerospace engineering or related fields
Work EnvironmentFactories, assembly lines, production facilitiesDesign labs, research facilities, offices
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, production plants, aerospace companiesDesign firms, research institutions, aerospace companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding production roles, job requirements, and skillsUnderstanding design, development, and technical aspects

While both roles are essential in the aerospace industry, Aerospace Manufacturing focuses on assembling and producing aircraft and spacecraft components, often requiring technical certifications and hands-on skills. Aerospace Engineering involves designing and developing aerospace systems, requiring higher education and engineering expertise. Both careers are vital but differ in responsibilities, work environment, and educational requirements.

What are some common challenges faced in aerospace manufacturing, and how do teams typically address them?

Aerospace manufacturing professionals often encounter challenges such as strict adherence to quality standards, complex regulatory requirements, and the need for precise coordination across multidisciplinary teams. To address these, companies implement rigorous quality control systems, continuous training, and regular communication between engineering, production, and quality assurance departments. Collaboration and attention to detail are crucial, and employees are encouraged to participate in problem-solving initiatives and process improvement programs to maintain the high safety and performance standards required in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Aerospace Manufacturing, and why are they important?

To excel in Aerospace Manufacturing, a strong background in mechanical engineering principles, quality control, and manufacturing processes is essential, often supported by a relevant degree or technical certification. Familiarity with CAD software, CNC machinery, and industry standards such as AS9100 is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the production of high-quality, safe, and reliable aerospace components in a highly regulated environment.

What do aerospace manufacturers do?

Aerospace manufacturers design, develop, and produce aircraft, spacecraft, and related components. They use specialized tools and materials, often working in controlled environments, and may require certifications in quality and safety standards. Their work involves precision engineering, assembly, and testing to ensure compliance with industry regulations.

What kind of jobs are in the aerospace industry?

The aerospace industry offers a variety of jobs including aerospace engineers, manufacturing technicians, quality inspectors, and assembly line workers. These roles often require knowledge of CAD software, precision tools, and safety protocols, and may involve working in manufacturing plants or research facilities.
More about Aerospace Manufacturing jobs
What cities are hiring for Aerospace Manufacturing jobs? Cities with the most Aerospace Manufacturing job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Manufacturing jobs? The most popular types of Aerospace Manufacturing jobs are:
What states have the most Aerospace Manufacturing jobs? States with the most job openings for Aerospace Manufacturing jobs include:

Aerospace Manufacturing Estimator

RTC Aerospace

Chatsworth, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

About RTCA:

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands-on machining expertise, with roots spanning more than 50 years. We support mission-critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America through four U.S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 150+ CNC machines and a team of 250+ professionals.

Unlike large organizations where roles can be narrow, RTCA offers hands-on ownership and real visibility โ€“ you understand how your work supports the team, the operation, and the end customer. Our flat structure allows employees to take initiative, grow their skills, and have their contributions recognized, while still providing the stability, advanced technology, and meaningful work of an established aerospace manufacturer.

At RTCA, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission!

How Youโ€™ll Make an Impact:

The Aerospace Manufacturing Estimator will be responsible for preparing accurate, competitive, and technically sound cost estimates for aerospace machined components, assemblies, and manufacturing programs. This individual will analyze engineering drawings, specifications, manufacturing requirements, material costs, labor content, outside processing, tooling requirements, and assembly operations to develop comprehensive quotations.

The ideal candidate has extensive aerospace manufacturing experience and a deep understanding of machining processes, special processes, assembly operations, multi-level BOMs, and manufacturing routings.


What youโ€™ll be doing as a Aerospace Manufacturing Estimator:

  • Working a full-time, onsite position at our Chatsworth, CA location.
  • Prepare detailed cost estimates and quotations for aerospace and defense customers.
  • Analyze engineering drawings, specifications, models, and customer requirements.
  • Develop manufacturing strategies and production routing plans.
  • Create and maintain multi-level Bills of Material (BOMs) and Bills of Process (BOP/BPM).
  • Calculate machine cycle times, setup times, labor standards, and material requirements.
  • Develop cost models for machining, assembly, inspection, testing, and outside processing.
  • Coordinate with engineering, operations, quality, supply chain, and production teams during quote development.
  • Identify manufacturing risks and opportunities to improve competitiveness and profitability.
  • Support new business pursuits, contract reviews, and customer RFQ activities.
  • Establish and maintain estimating standards, databases, and best practices across RTCA divisions.
  • Assist leadership in evaluating capital equipment requirements and manufacturing capabilities.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

  • Minimum 5 years of aerospace estimating experience.
  • Minimum 10 years of aerospace manufacturing experience preferred.
  • Strong understanding of CNC machining and aerospace manufacturing processes.
  • Ability to read and interpret complex aerospace engineering drawings and GD&T.
  • Experience estimating complete manufacturing processes from raw material through final assembly.
  • Experience developing manufacturing routings, labor standards, and cost models.
  • Strong knowledge of AS9100 quality systems and aerospace customer requirements.
  • Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and estimating software.

Technical Experience Required:

Machining Processes:

  • 3, 4, and 5-Axis CNC Milling
  • CNC Turning
  • Mill-Turn Operations
  • Swiss Machining
  • Grinding
  • Honing
  • EDM
  • Precision Inspection

Materials:

  • Aluminum Alloys
  • Stainless Steels
  • Titanium
  • Inconel
  • Nickel Alloys
  • Tool Steels
  • Copper Alloys
  • Plastics and Composite Materials

Special Processes:

  • Anodize
  • Hardcoat Anodize
  • Chem Film
  • Passivation
  • Heat Treat
  • Shot Peen
  • NDT
  • Cadmium and Nickel Plating
  • Thermal Spray
  • HVOF Coatings
  • Paint and Dry Film Lubricants
  • Laser Marking
  • Source Inspection Requirements

Assembly & Quality:

  • Mechanical Assembly
  • Aerospace Hardware Installation
  • Testing and Validation
  • AS9102 First Article Inspection
  • Configuration Management
  • Quality Planning

Preferred Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or related field.
  • Experience supporting aerospace OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers.
  • Experience with Boeing, Collins Aerospace, Honeywell, Parker, Eaton, Safran, Triumph, Kawasaki, Spirit AeroSystems, or similar customers.
  • Experience supporting multiple manufacturing facilities.
  • Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement experience.
  • Cost engineering and value engineering background.

Compensation and Benefits:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
  • Choice of medical plan options, including a no-cost employee-only coverage plan
  • HSA-eligible health plan with employer contributions
  • Basic and supplemental life insurance
  • Long-term disability coverage
  • 401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match
  • Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine (9) paid company holidays
  • Shift differentials for applicable off-shifts
  • Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance

The Aerospace Manufacturing Estimator Compensation range for onsite California applicants is $90,000 - 100,000 annually commensurate with experience. Some shifts may include shift differential pay rates. Other site ranges may differ.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a โ€œUS Personโ€ as defined by 22 C.F.R. ยง 120.15 is required.

RTCA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants wishing to receive information on RTCAโ€™s Affirmative Action Plans, or those requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, should contact the RTCA Human Resources Department. Qualified individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans who are unable or limited in their ability to access or use our career center due to a disability may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting Human Resources.

Candidates will receive consideration without discrimination in accordance with Article 9, Chapter XVIII of the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code and applicable federal, state, and local laws.