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Manufacturing Engineer I/II - 2nd Shift

Zone 5 Technologies

San Luis Obispo, CA · $79k–$120k a year · Posted October 19, 2026

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Pay compared with the market

This listing pays about $99,500 a year. Across 27 open manufacturing engineer i listings that state pay, the middle half runs $82,000 to $113,000 and the median is $113,000. That is inside the middle half of those listings, 12% below the median.

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AI use among industrial engineers is little observed so far. Measured exposure for industrial engineers: 4% (little observed).

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About the job

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in precision weapons and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Our team of engineers and innovators are developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions to deliver affordable and scalable precision weapons, interceptors, and UAS.

We're building the next generation of munitions and unmanned systems for the United States and its allies. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on defense technology, you belong here.

Role Summary for Level I:

The Manufacturing Engineer I supports day-to-day production activities while learning manufacturing processes, tooling, documentation, and quality requirements for UAV systems. This role works closely with technicians, assemblers, quality, and supply chain to support stable production.

Role Summary for Level II:

The Manufacturing Engineer II independently owns manufacturing processes for assigned assemblies or production areas. This role balances quality, schedule, and cost while supporting scalable production of UAV systems. Tasks and responsibilities expected for this role include those captured by lower role specific levels.

This role involves working closely with engineers, production technicians, and operations teams to support multiple programs and value streams.

Key Responsibilities for Level I:

Support assembly of:

Electromechanical assemblies

Avionics assemblies and subassemblies

Mechanical structures and components

Assist in creating and updating work instructions, travelers, and build documentation

Support production issue resolution under guidance

Assist with tooling, fixtures, and basic process improvements

Participate in first article and validation builds

Collect production data and support continuous improvement initiatives

Gain exposure to automation, robotics, and manufacturing software systems

Follow AS9100, safety, and configuration control requirements

Key responsibilities for Level II (In addition to Level I):

Own manufacturing processes for electromechanical, avionics, and mechanical assemblies

Develop and maintain work instructions, routings, and assembly documentation

Troubleshoot production issues and implement corrective actions

Support tooling and fixture design in partnership with engineering

Lead first article and process validation activities

Support automation and semi-automated processes

Interface with quality on NCRs, MRB actions, and corrective actions

Support production rate increases and takt time improvements

Qualifications for Level I:

Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace Engineering (or equivalent experience)

0–2 years manufacturing or production engineering experience

Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and drawings

Strong communication and learning mindset

Qualifications for Level II (In addition to Level I):

2+ years aerospace or high-reliability manufacturing experience

Strong print reading and basic GD&T proficiency

Experience supporting production builds and issue resolution

Comfortable working independently on the shop floor

Strong communication and learning mindset

2nd Shift Hours are 3:00pm to 11:30pm

Level I: $79,000 - $103,000

Level II: $93,000 - $120,000

Pay range for this role $79,000 — $120,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits:

Competitive total compensation package

Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.

401k with company-match

3 weeks of paid time off each year

40 hours of sick time

12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.

Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov .