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Critical Manufacturing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MES Consultant - Critical Manufacturing Locations: Boise, ID Duration: 6 Months Rate Range: $45 - $52/Hour on W2/C2C (All inclusive) Role Descriptions: "We are seeking a highly experienced MES ...

New

Manufacturing Engineer III

East Syracuse, NY · On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

The role owns critical manufacturing processes or technologies, leads highimpact improvement initiatives, and serves as a subjectmatter expert for process capability, equipment performance, and ...

New

Manufacturing Engineer

Garden City, NY · On-site

$75K - $96K/yr

Develop, document and implement standard work instructions for critical manufacturing operations. Required Skills and Abilities: * Excellent people and communication skills are required (both oral ...

Position Overview The Senior Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, improving, and sustaining manufacturing processes for modular power, electrical, and mission critical infrastructure ...

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Critical Manufacturing information

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$13

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$28

How much do critical manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for critical manufacturing in the United States is $20.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the common challenges faced by professionals working in critical manufacturing environments?

Professionals in critical manufacturing often navigate challenges such as maintaining strict quality control standards, ensuring equipment reliability, and adhering to rigorous safety protocols. The work environment is typically fast-paced and highly regulated, requiring constant attention to detail and the ability to quickly resolve production issues. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including engineering, quality assurance, and supply chain—is essential to meet production targets and maintain compliance. Adapting to rapidly changing technologies and continuous improvement initiatives is also a key aspect of the role.

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

To excel in Critical Manufacturing, you need a solid background in engineering, industrial processes, and quality assurance, often supported by a relevant degree or industry certifications. Familiarity with manufacturing execution systems (MES), automation tools, and lean manufacturing methodologies is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork distinguish high performers in this field. These competencies are vital to maintain high production standards, ensure operational efficiency, and minimize errors in mission-critical environments.

What is the difference between Critical Manufacturing vs Manufacturing Technician?

AspectCritical ManufacturingManufacturing Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, manufacturing, or related fieldsOften requires a high school diploma or associate degree, with technical certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, factories, and production plants with advanced machineryFactory floors, assembly lines, and equipment maintenance areas
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in high-tech, aerospace, and specialized manufacturing sectorsCommon across various manufacturing industries including automotive and electronics

Critical Manufacturing professionals focus on overseeing complex production processes, ensuring quality, and managing advanced systems. Manufacturing Technicians support daily operations, perform equipment maintenance, and assist in production tasks. While both roles are essential in manufacturing, Critical Manufacturing roles typically require higher technical expertise and education.

What is Critical Manufacturing?

Critical Manufacturing refers to the production processes and operations that are essential for the functioning of key industries, such as aerospace, defense, medical devices, and semiconductors. These manufacturing activities are often highly regulated and require strict quality control, advanced technologies, and robust security measures to ensure product reliability and safety. Critical Manufacturing can also refer to companies that provide Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) designed to optimize and monitor complex industrial operations. The term highlights the importance of these processes in supporting infrastructure, public health, and national security.
More about Critical Manufacturing jobs
What states have the most Critical Manufacturing jobs? States with the most job openings for Critical Manufacturing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Critical Manufacturing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Critical Manufacturing jobs are:
Infographic showing various Critical Manufacturing job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Internship, 62% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,185 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Critical Manufacturing SME

Systems Planning and Analysis

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Overview
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.
The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.
The Critical Infrastructure Group (CIG) within JOID provides technical, programmatic and analytical support to customers with missions in national security to include the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The Group brings technical and operational expertise in fields of countering weapons of mass destruction, critical infrastructure protection, emergency response, nuclear non-proliferation, weapons deployment programs, and transportation safety. In addition to management and advisory services, CIG staff collaborate closely with our clients to provide high-quality modeling, simulation, software, and analytical products to meet the most demanding government standards and timelines.
We have a near-term need for a Project Technical Lead - Research Scientist to provide hybrid support for DHS out of SPA HQ in Alexandria, VA.
Responsibilities
Provide subject matter expertise, skills, and services necessary to conduct research and analysis of evolving cybersecurity and technology risk areas within client equities and in support of client case reviews and investigations, threat assessments, and special projects through the identification of cybersecurity and technology risk posed to U.S. national security by foreign transactions and/or ownership and involvement in licensing activities. This requires complex analysis relying on specialized knowledge in national security, law enforcement, and cybersecurity and technology topics in core areas of interest including, but not limited to: networks and telecommunications, data security and cybersecurity, supply chain risk management, and critical manufacturing and emerging technologies. Provide routine services necessary to support the efficient analytic workflow, information, and knowledge management of client cases, reviews, and various program support projects. Conduct open-source intelligence research, risk analysis, and risk communication. Apply specialized capabilities in core areas of interest, including but not limited to open-source intelligence research and analysis, supply chain risk management, and financial risk analysis.
Qualifications
Required:
  • Active TS/SCI clearance.
  • Bachelor's degree in STEM field, with preference given to advanced degree and/or experience in a field closely related to a core area of FIRB cybersecurity and technology interest or the emerging and critical technology areas listed below.
  • 10+ years of experience in policy development and strategic planning, manufacturing environments, the implementation of quality assurance processes, and/or technical implementation or development in at least one emerging and critical technology relevant to CISA equities, including Biotechnology, Semiconductors and microelectronics, Quantum information systems/computing, and Artificial intelligence (AI).
  • Widely recognized certifications such as Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) may substitute for up to 2 years of work experience, depending on the level and relevance.
  • Demonstrated evidence of ongoing education and training to keep up with industry advancements and maintain adaptability to new technologies and processes.
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and analysis in an area related to cybersecurity and technology interest.
  • Demonstrated analytic writing and communication ability.
  • Demonstrated ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.