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Lead Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$120/hr

Overview We are seeking a Lead Manufacturing Engineer to lead manufacturing development and improvement for advanced electro-optical space systems . This individual will translate engineering designs ...

New

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$120/hr

Overview We are seeking a Lead Manufacturing Engineer to lead manufacturing development and improvement for advanced electro-optical space systems . This individual will translate engineering designs ...

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Irvine, CA

$120/hr

Overview We are seeking a Lead Manufacturing Engineer to lead manufacturing development and improvement for advanced electro-optical space systems . This individual will translate engineering designs ...

Curtisswright

Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$108K - $145K/yr

Lead Manufacturing Engineer-Electronics - Defense- Onsite Position We have an exciting opportunity for a Lead Manufacturing Engineer to join our team in Santa Clarita, CA! As our Lead Manufacturing ...

Zoo

Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

About The Role As a Lead Manufacturing Engineer at Zoo, you will lead the development and operation of our manufacturing systems, machine shop, and hardware production workflows that power the future ...

Zoo

Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Able to operate autonomously and work asynchronously, while also being an effective team player About The Role As a Lead Manufacturing Engineer at Zoo, you will lead the development and operation of ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsLead Manufacturing Engineer JobsLead Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in California

Lead Manufacturing Engineer information

See California salary details

$46.4K

$105.5K

$163.8K

How much do lead manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead manufacturing engineer in California is $105,486.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges lead manufacturing engineers face when introducing new processes on the production floor?

Lead Manufacturing Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring seamless integration of new technologies or processes with existing equipment, minimizing downtime during transitions, and gaining buy-in from production staff. They must carefully coordinate with cross-functional teams, including quality assurance and maintenance, to troubleshoot unforeseen issues and maintain product standards. Effective communication, comprehensive training, and continuous monitoring are key to overcoming these obstacles and achieving successful implementation.

What is the difference between Lead Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectLead Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees manufacturing processes, leads teams, implements improvementsDesigns and develops manufacturing processes, supports production
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, experience in manufacturing, leadership skillsBachelor's in Engineering, process knowledge, technical skills
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in production facilities, cross-functional teamsOperational settings, production lines, process development
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing plants, automotive, aerospaceWidespread in manufacturing sectors, electronics, consumer goods

The main difference is that a Lead Manufacturing Engineer typically manages teams and oversees process improvements, while a Manufacturing Engineer focuses on designing and supporting manufacturing processes. The lead role involves more leadership and strategic planning, whereas the manufacturing engineer is more technical and hands-on in process development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead manufacturing engineer?

To thrive as a Lead Manufacturing Engineer, you need a strong background in manufacturing processes, problem-solving, and engineering principles, usually supported by a degree in mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing engineering. Proficiency with CAD software, lean manufacturing systems, Six Sigma methodologies, and ERP/MES platforms is typically required, and certifications such as Six Sigma Black Belt can be advantageous. Leadership, effective communication, and project management are essential soft skills for coordinating teams and driving continuous improvement. These skills and qualities are crucial for optimizing production efficiency, ensuring quality, and leading successful engineering projects within a manufacturing environment.

What does a lead manufacturing engineer do?

A Lead Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for overseeing and optimizing production processes within a manufacturing facility. They lead a team of engineers and technicians to improve efficiency, ensure product quality, and implement cost-saving measures. Their duties often include designing manufacturing systems, troubleshooting issues, coordinating with other departments, and ensuring compliance with safety and industry standards. By leveraging their technical expertise and leadership skills, they help drive continuous improvement in manufacturing operations.
What are popular job titles related to Lead Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California? For Lead Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lead Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Lead Manufacturing Engineer jobs in CA? For Lead Manufacturing Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Lead Manufacturing Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Manufacturing Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,486 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

Lead Manufacturing Engineer

TRL11, Inc.

Irvine, CA • On-site

$120/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a Lead Manufacturing Engineer to lead manufacturing development and improvement for advanced electro-optical space systems.

This individual will translate engineering designs into robust, repeatable manufacturing processes and work closely with mechanical, electrical, optical, systems, quality, supply chain, and production teams. Responsibilities include factory-floor development, process design, work instructions, tooling, manufacturing readiness, and continuous improvement.

The role will also support nonconformance and corrective action activities, including NCCR, and may contribute to the implementation and improvement of a Manufacturing Execution System (MES).

Responsibilities
  • Lead manufacturing engineering for assembly, integration, inspection, and test of electro-optical space hardware.
  • Develop manufacturing processes, assembly sequences, routings, inspection points, and production controls.
  • Create and maintain work instructions, travelers, manufacturing plans, and process documentation.
  • Partner with design engineering to provide DFMA feedback and identify manufacturing risks.
  • Design or specify tooling, fixtures, equipment, and assembly aids.
  • Help develop factory-floor layouts, work cells, material flow, and production areas.
  • Troubleshoot manufacturing issues directly with technicians and engineering teams.
  • Participate in NCCR, nonconformance investigations, root-cause analysis, and corrective actions.
  • Improve manufacturing quality, yield, throughput, cycle time, and repeatability.
  • Support prototype, qualification, and flight hardware through production.
  • Help transition products from development into repeatable manufacturing.
  • Support configuration control, traceability, and production documentation.
  • Mentor manufacturing personnel and establish manufacturing best practices.
  • Support MES implementation and improvement, including electronic work instructions, routings, traceability, and production data collection.

Requirements

Basic
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Aerospace, Industrial, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of manufacturing engineering experience with complex electromechanical, optical, aerospace, defense, or other high-reliability hardware.
  • Experience developing manufacturing processes and production documentation.
  • Hands-on experience supporting hardware assembly, integration, and troubleshooting.
  • Experience with nonconformance investigations, root-cause analysis, and corrective actions.
  • Strong understanding of engineering drawings, GD&T, BOMs, configuration control, and manufacturing processes.
  • Experience with manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and production equipment.
  • Strong cross-functional communication and technical problem-solving skills.
  • Experience developing factory layouts, production cells, and capacity plans.
  • Experience with MES, ERP, PLM, or digital manufacturing systems.
Preferred
  • 7+ years of manufacturing engineering experience with technical leadership responsibilities.
  • Experience manufacturing spacecraft, payloads, satellites, or electro-optical systems.
  • Experience with precision optical, optomechanical, or cleanroom assembly.
  • Experience with low-volume, high-complexity flight hardware.
  • Familiarity with AS9100, NASA, IPC, or related aerospace standards.

Benefits

    • Fast paced, energetic startup culture, where you'll learn a lot, have great impact, and have fun doing it
    • 401k, Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
    • Unlimited Paid Time Off (with prior approval), for Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays
    • Stock Option Plan participation, based on performance and tenure
    • Salary range $120-180k