Heart Aerospace — Los Angeles, CA
At Heart Aerospace we develop the ES-30, a regional hybrid-electric airplane with a capacity of 30 passengers, an electric zero-emission range of 200 km and an extended hybrid range of 400 km. Heart is targeting type certification of the ES-30 by the end of the decade.
Your mission
We are seeking a hands-on, driven Manufacturing Engineer to lead key builds for the ES-30 hybrid-electric aircraft. As we continue to expand our vertical integration, this role offers a unique opportunity to take full ownership of manufacturing process development, from design to achieving production rate.
You will play a critical role in Heart’s success, working closely with technicians, design engineers, and supply chain partners to bring complex components and assemblies from prototype to scalable production. This is a highly collaborative, fast-paced role at the core of our mission to revolutionize regional air travel.
Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Process Development & Optimization
• Design and implement scalable manufacturing processes for aircraft structures, propulsion systems, avionics, batteries, and other critical subsystems (multiple roles are open across teams)
• Develop and optimize workflows to improve build efficiency, quality, and repeatability
• Proactively identify and resolve production bottlenecks using root cause analysis and continuous improvement techniques
Tooling & Equipment
• Design and specify custom tooling, fixtures, and solutions to support precision assembly and fabrication
• Collaborate with external vendors and internal teams to source or fabricate required equipment
• Support automation initiatives and ergonomic improvements across the manufacturing floor
Prototyping & Production Builds
• Lead the execution of prototype builds and transition processes into low- and high-rate production
• Work closely with technicians on first article builds, ensuring safe, efficient, and repeatable methods
• Implement in-line quality checks and provide real-time troubleshooting during assembly
Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Partner with Design Engineering to drive DFM/DFA (Design for Manufacturability/Assembly) feedback
• Develop and execute sourcing strategies by assessing supplier capabilities, and managing outsourcing timelines and budgets to ensure program alignment
• Ensure quality is built into the product by defining clear inspection criteria and implementing fast, cost-effective corrective actions
Documentation & Standards
• Create and maintain detailed work instructions, process documentation, and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Contribute to the development of manufacturing standards and best practices as the company scales
• Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and quality requirements
Skills & Requirements
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent experience)
• 3+ years of experience in a fast-paced manufacturing or production environment (internship or co-op experience counts)
• Proficiency in CAD (e.g., CATIA, NX, SolidWorks)
• Strong understanding of materials, GD&T, machining, welding, composites, and/or assembly techniques
• Experience working with cross-functional teams in design, quality, and production
• Bias toward action, attention to detail, and a passion for hands-on problem-solving
These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have
• Experience in aerospace, automotive, eVTOL, or electric propulsion manufacturing
• Exposure to high-voltage systems, thermal management, or battery integration
Base Pay Range:
$124,000 — $176,000 USD