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Critical Manufacturing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineer Sr

Grand Prairie, TX · On-site

$87K - $119K/yr

This role offers the opportunity to shape critical manufacturing processes, work with cuttingedge technology, and directly influence the success of highvalue defense programs. We are committed to ...

THE COMPANY Galvion designs, develops, and manufactures ballistic helmets and dynamic power and ... Define and control critical process parameters (temperature, pressure, cure time, consolidation)

Manufacturing Engineer II

Newport, VT

$74K - $96K/yr

THE COMPANY Galvion designs, develops, and manufactures ballistic helmets and dynamic power and ... Define and control critical process parameters (temperature, pressure, cure time, consolidation)

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Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Pompano Beach, FL · On-site

$85K - $117K/yr

... critical manufacturing/process specifications that are both robust and meet quality expectations. Use appropriate statistical support and Design of Experiments (DOE). • Collaborate cross ...

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Our approach is relationship-driven connecting great people with great companies while supporting critical manufacturing operations. At Trades Resource, we believe in People over Process. People over ...

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Manufacturing Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

This Manufacturing Engineer opportunity places you at the heart of a critical manufacturing phase, where your technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and hands-on approach will directly impact ...

Manufacturing Leader

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140K - $230K/yr

Experience supporting permitting, regulatory interfaces, or safety-critical manufacturing operations. * Familiarity with advanced materials, precision fabrication, or complex assembly processes.

Manufacturing Engineer

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

... critical manufacturing and/or quality details, selecting appropriate tooling given part geometry and specifications, determining feeds and speeds, running simulations to check for errors, and ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Cincinnati, OH

$70K - $90K/yr

... critical manufacturing and/or quality details, selecting appropriate tooling given part geometry and specifications, determining feeds and speeds, running simulations to check for errors, and ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

... critical manufacturing and/or quality details, selecting appropriate tooling given part geometry and specifications, determining feeds and speeds, running simulations to check for errors, and ...

Manufacturing Engineer 4

Brea, CA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Provide advanced troubleshooting support for critical manufacturing, process, and quality issues. * Lead root cause investigations and corrective action efforts for tooling complex production ...

This position will work closely with engineering and operations teams to maintain critical manufacturing equipment, troubleshoot mechanical systems, support production processes, and assist with ...

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Critical Manufacturing information

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$13

$20

$28

How much do critical manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,185 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Manufacturing Engineer Sr

$87K - $119K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 388 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

You will be the Senior Manufacturing Engineer for the Precision Fires Manufacturing Engineering team. Our team is responsible for delivering advanced manufacturing solutions that drive program success. The role combines hands on, above the shop floor, program responsibilities-such as leading line validations, providing on site supplier support, and managing tooling-with higher level program tasks like affordability analyses, proposal efforts, and cross functional cost reduction initiatives. You will thrive in a fast paced environment, build strong relationships across engineering, supply chain, and operations, and develop project management expertise while advancing manufacturability, efficiency, and quality throughout the program lifecycle.


What You Will Be Doing


As the Manufacturing Engineer you will be responsible for bridging handson production execution with strategic program initiatives.
Lead Production Line Validations for the program at LockheedMartin and supplier sites; proactively flag PLV needs during SMT calls, NOC reviews, and processchange activities.
Manage producibility and manufacturing readiness reviews for CRs/CNs, perform make / buy and cost benefit analyses, and coordinate with GSC, Quality, Production, and other teams to execute implementation of the approved change.
Own the development of programwide ManufacturingEngineering Statements of Work and conduct comprehensive Make/Buy and basisofestimate trade studies that shape affordability, costbaseline, and proposal strategy.
Perform proactive affordability analyses, devise costsaving strategies, and leverage tooling and continuousimprovement efforts to validate capability and ensure lowrate production readiness.
Serve as the primary contact for suppliers, anticipate and mitigate production impacts, and influence corrective actions across internal teams.
Coach Level2 engineers on best practices, problemsolving, and project execution.
Travel to supplier and LockheedMartin facilities to align efforts, resolve critical issues, and enforce program standards.


Why Join Us


The ideal candidate is a collaborative, resultsdriven engineer who thrives on solving complex problems and delivering highimpact solutions. This role offers the opportunity to shape critical manufacturing processes, work with cuttingedge technology, and directly influence the success of highvalue defense programs.


We are committed to supporting your worklife balance and overall wellbeing, offering flexible scheduling options. Learn more about Lockheed Martin's comprehensive benefits package here.


Further Information About This Opportunity


This position is in Dallas. Discover more about our Dallas, Texas location.


MUST BE A U.S. CITIZEN -This position is located at a facility that requiresspecial access. The selected candidate must possess an active Secretclearance to start.


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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912