Research Development Process Engineer Jobs in Newton, KS

This role is at Spirit AeroSystems, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, at Spirit’s Defense Business Unit (“Spirit Defense”). Spirit Defense is an independent supplier to the defense and space marketplace. Through innovative engineering and rapid prototyping excellence, Spirit Defense provides the capabilities, technologies and support customers need to succeed in their missions.

Position Responsibilities:

• Conceives new product configurations, designs, manufacturing processes and advanced technologies for new aerostructures
• Defines and performs research programs to mature concepts, technologies and processes
• Understands full life cycle requirements for product development
• Defines future factory vision, concepts and options
• Defines engineering requirements and compliance approaches up front
• Defines test and certification plans
• Assesses or evaluates product performance and manufacturing cost and viability
• Performs trade studies for design alternatives
• Capable of defining necessary resources and development plans
• Works in concert with key functions to align and advance research plans
• Progresses concept through initial configuration, prototyping, risk reduction and mature technology readiness
• Documents and communicates plans and evaluations for future work packages, i.e. bid and proposal
• High energy, self-starter, with applicable knowledge of composite development techniques and manufacturing processes
• Develops concepts through the initial configuration, prototyping, risk reduction, verification, and validation and can progress a project through to completion
• Authors test reports and certification plans
• Hands‑on experience with a variety of carbon fiber reinforced thermoset matrix composite materials manufacturing processes, including hand layup, compression molding, and vacuum bagging

This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at the Wichita, KS, location.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical field
• 2+ years of related technical experience
• Ability to obtain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance and Special Program Access (for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship)

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

• Mid‑Level (Level 3): 5+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (preferably from an ABET‑accredited engineering program)
• Active U.S. Secret Security Clearance
• 3D computer aided modeling and/or 3D printing
• Experience with composite fabrication, composite materials, tooling related composites, layups and cure cycles
• Experience with robotics, automation, design, and various programming languages (e.g., C++ & Python)
• Familiarity with Linux operating system (e.g., Ubuntu)
• Machining/CNC background
• Experience utilizing various Microsoft Office Suite applications, such as Office 365 and Microsoft Project, Power Point, Excel, Word, Teams and Visio
• Experience with aerostructure manufacturing
• Experience in cross‑functional project management
• Experience with Continuous Improvement, Lean, Industry 4.0, World Class Manufacturing, Future Factory, Production System, etc.
• Knowledge of engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain
• Knowledge of operational processes, flow, and procedures
• Knowledge of financial processes and procedures
• Knowledge of Robotic Operating System (i.e., ROS and/or ROS2)
• Research experience
• Must be a self‑starter and able to perform duties with minimum supervision
• Experience building interpersonal professional relationships
• Strong verbal and written communication skills

This is a union‑represented position.

We are a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

We strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent.

Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

We also provide eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Summary Pay Range - Associate (Level 2): $67,150 - $103,000

Summary Pay Range - Mid‑level (Level 3): $78,100 - $119,700

Join Spirit AeroSystems’ Kansas team and you may be eligible for a $5,000 state of Kansas Aviation tax credit for up to five years. Click here for more information on the tax credit.

This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Secret Clearance Post‑Start is required.

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.