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Critical Manufacturing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amgen, Inc.

Associate Manufacturing

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

Perform and monitor critical manufacturing processes * Execute routine validation protocols * Comply with GMP requirements and all safety and compliance expectations * Draft and revise routine ...

Club Car LLC

Advanced Manufacturing Engineer

Evans, GA · On-site

Relocation assistance available - Augusta Georgia Job Summary The Advanced Manufacturing Engineer will drive manufacturing process practices through the development and application of critical ...

Ametek

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 ...

Amgen

Associate Manufacturing

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

Perform and monitor critical manufacturing processes * Execute routine validation protocols * Comply with GMP requirements and all safety and compliance expectations * Draft and revise routine ...

Amgen

Associate Manufacturing

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

Perform and monitor critical manufacturing processes * Execute routine validation protocols * Comply with GMP requirements and all safety and compliance expectations * Draft and revise routine ...

Nextracker

Senior Manager, MES & Manufacturing IT

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$130K - $130K/yr

Oracle Fusion MES, 42Q, Critical Manufacturing, Plex, or similar) from design through validation, go-live, and hypercare. * Configure work order routing, station definitions, operator workflows ...

Actalent

Manufacturing Process Engineer

Manchester, CT

$75K - $100K/yr

The analyst collaborates closely with engineering, production, and quality teams to maintain accurate data, resolve supplier issues, and support reliable, flight-critical manufacturing output.

Nextpower

Senior Manager, MES & Manufacturing IT

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$130K - $130K/yr

Oracle Fusion MES, 42Q, Critical Manufacturing, Plex, or similar) from design through validation, go-live, and hypercare. * Configure work order routing, station definitions, operator workflows ...

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Critical Manufacturing information

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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:
Critical Manufacturing jobs near you
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.
Senior Solar Manufacturing Engineer

Senior Solar Manufacturing Engineer

K2 Space

Los Angeles, CA

$140K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

The Role 

You will lead the transformation of solar array designs into reliable, flight-ready hardware at scale. Deeply embedded in the build of solar modules and photovoltaic arrays, you'll operate at the center of production to drive process development, solve complex manufacturing challenges, and ensure hardware is built with precision, repeatability, and speed. 

You'll own critical manufacturing processes end-to-end, from early design engagement through production ramp and sustained operations. This role is built for someone who combines strong technical judgement with a bias for action. Your impact will extend beyond individual builds, shaping the foundation of manufacturing systems designed to deliver high-performance solar hardware, reliability and at scale, for mission pushing the boundaries of what's possible in space.  

Responsibilities 

  • Own manufacturing processes for solar modules, photovoltaic array integration, and associated mechanical structures from development through production 
  • Develop, qualify, and maintain assembly procedures, tooling requirements, and build sequences that make flawless execution repeatable at scale 
  • Drive design-for-manufacturing feedback into array and module designs in partnership with the Solar Design team, identifying producibility risks early in the design cycle 
  • Lead root cause investigation and corrective action on build escapes, non-conformances, and process failures 
  • Support sourcing and qualification of manufacturing equipment, fixtures, and tooling; manage vendor relationships to ensure on-spec delivery 
  • Mentor and technically guide Manufacturing Engineering team members 
  • Represent manufacturing engineering in design reviews and build readiness reviews 

Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace, materials or other relevant engineering discipline 
  • 5+ years of experience in a high-volume manufacturing, production, or hands-on engineering environment 
  • Experience working with photovoltaic modules, solar cells, or electromechanical array assemblies 
  • Demonstrated ownership of end-to-end manufacturing processes in high-rate environments, including process documentation, tooling, and build execution 
  • Track record of driving DFM improvements that tangibly reduced cost, cycle time, or defect rate 
  • Strong cross-functional collaboration skills and comfortable engaging Design, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to resolve issues and close builds 

Nice to Have 

  • Hands-on background in high-volume or automated solar manufacturing environments 
  • Experience ramping a production line from pilot builds to sustained production rate 
  • Experience in space, defense, or other high-reliability manufacturing environments with rigorous acceptance test requirements 
  • Experience working closely with technicians and build tooling 
  • Familiarity with CAD software (NX or equivalent) and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) 

Compensation and Benefits: 

  • Base salary range for this role is $140,000 - $175,000 + equity in the company 
  • Salary will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level 
  • Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision/ coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks 
K2 Space logo

About K2 Space

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2022

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