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.
Listed pay is what employers advertise, not what people are paid.
Manufacturing Engineer I salaries by state · Check your own pay
How AI is used in this kind of work
AI use among industrial engineers is little observed so far. Measured exposure for industrial engineers: 4% (little observed).
Share of this job’s tasks that AI is already used for at work, from real usage. It is not a forecast of job loss, and a low number means no use seen yet. Source: Anthropic Economic Index.
Skills this job asks for
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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 .