---
title: 'Manufacturing Engineer I/II - 2nd Shift at Zone 5 Technologies'
canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/manufacturing-engineer-i-ii-2nd-shift-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-949b4ms2tcb9'
type: 'job'
last_seen: '2026-10-20'
---

# Manufacturing Engineer I/II - 2nd Shift at Zone 5 Technologies

- **Company:** Zone 5 Technologies
- **Location:** San Luis Obispo, CA
- **Compensation:** $79k–$120k
- **Posted:** 2026-10-19
- **Last confirmed live:** 2026-10-20
- **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/zone5technologies/jobs/5457729008

## Job description

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, 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.

## About Zone 5 Technologies

## Company Overview
- **One-liner**: Zone 5 Technologies develops advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and next-generation munitions for U.S. Department of Defense customers, with a focus on modular, open-architecture designs and rapid prototyping.
- **Entity Type**: Private (acquired by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace; prior to acquisition was privately held)
- **Headquarters**: San Luis Obispo, California, United States
- **Founded**: 2011
- **Founders**: Not publicly available

## Core Business
- **Primary Industry**: Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing; Defense Technology
- **Target Customers**: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), and allied military forces (B2G)
- **Mission Statement**: "Create the future" – focused on enabling modularity, collaboration, and rapid deployment of unmanned systems and munitions.

## Products & Services
- **Paladin UAS**: A multi-mission, TAK-integrated unmanned aircraft system that serves as an autonomous wingman. Capabilities include counter-UAS interception, precision munitions drop, and rifle takedowns. Listed on the DIU Blue UAS Refresh list, ensuring NDAA compliance and cybersecurity. (Hardware + Software)
- **White Spike Interceptor**: A modular, open-C2 missile and launcher system available in surface‑ and air‑launched configurations. Designed for counter-UAS and precision strike missions. (Hardware + Software)
- **Air Launched Effects (ALE)**: Low‑cost, digitally engineered effects for affordable mass and precision strike from mobility, bomber, and tactical aircraft. (Hardware + Software)
- **Next‑Gen Munitions**: Low‑cost containerized missile systems, including the Extended Range Attack Munition. (Hardware)
- **Engineering Services / R&D**: End‑to‑end system development including CONOPS, vehicle design, avionics, embedded hardware/software, ground control stations, and mission planning software.

## Market Standing
- **Valuation/Market Cap**: Not publicly disclosed (acquired by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace)
- **Key Metric**: Total headcount of 183 (LinkedIn, 2026‑07), representing +241.1% year‑over‑year growth
- **Notable Investors/Partners**: Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (acquirer); DIU (multiple contract awards); U.S. Air Force
- **Growth Signals**:
  - 241% headcount growth in the last year
  - Selected for multiple DoD/DIU programs: Blue UAS Refresh, Low‑Cost Containerized Missiles, Counter UAS Next, Extended Range Attack Munition, Enterprise Test Vehicle
  - 108 active job postings (260% year‑over‑year increase)
  - 13,284 LinkedIn followers (+62% yearly)

## Competitive Advantages
- **Vertical Integration**: Concept‑to‑production capability – design, manufacturing, testing, and sustainment in‑house.
- **Open Systems / Modularity**: MOSA/WOSA architectures enable rapid adaptation of vehicles, sensors, and weapons.
- **Blue UAS Listing**: Provides an Authority to Operate (ATO) for all DoD operators, a key differentiator for government contracts.
- **Flight‑Proven Hardware**: Paladin and White Spike have undergone extensive flight testing (SIL, HIL, flight tests).
- **Agile Prototyping**: Low‑cost, digitally engineered designs allow for fast iteration and unit‑cost discipline.

## Strategic Focus
- **Expanding DoD & Allied Contracts**: Leveraging recent DIU and Air Force wins to secure production orders for Paladin, White Spike, and missile systems.
- **Scaling Workforce & Capabilities**: Rapid hiring across engineering (GNC, embedded, avionics, flight test) to support increasing program loads.
- **International Expansion**: Acquisition by Kongsberg may open access to NATO and allied markets.
- **Next‑Gen Munitions**: Emphasis on affordable mass – developing low‑cost missiles for high‑volume procurement.

## Why Work Here
- **Culture & Ratings**: Employer rating 4.2/5 on LinkedIn (based on 8 reviews); Work‑Life 4.0, Compensation 3.6, Culture 3.4, Career 3.8.
- **Growth Opportunity**: 108 open positions across software, hardware, flight test, and manufacturing – strong upward mobility in a rapidly expanding company.
- **Technical Environment**: Tech stack includes Python, MATLAB, C++, CUDA, PyTorch, Docker, Kubernetes, PostgreSQL, React, GitLab, Jenkins, and more – modern engineering tools.
- **Mission‑Driven Work**: Directly contribute to defense technology that is fielded today (Blue UAS, interceptor programs).
- **Location**: San Luis Obispo, CA – a vibrant college town near the Central Coast with outdoor lifestyle.
- **Hybrid/Remote**: Not specifically stated; most roles appear on‑site at one of three U.S. offices (San Luis Obispo, Fort Walton Beach FL, Fort Worth TX).

## Sources
1. [LinkedIn – Zone 5 Technologies](https://www.linkedin.com/company/zone-5-technologies)
2. [Company Website – zone5tech.com](https://www.zone5tech.com/)
3. [Greenhouse Careers Page](http://job-boards.greenhouse.io/zone5technologies)
4. [robotics.press – Company Profile](https://robotics.press/news/zone-5-technologies-company-profile/)
5. [YouTube – Zone 5 Technologies](https://www.youtube.com/@Zone5Technologies)

## Other roles at Zone 5 Technologies

- [Electrical Engineer III/IV](https://feeny.ai/job/electrical-engineer-iii-iv-zone-5-technologies-fort-walton-beach-0tb26ge7g0k0) — Fort Walton Beach, FL / Fort Worth, TX / San Luis Obispo, CA
- [Sr. Surface Modeler](https://feeny.ai/job/sr-surface-modeler-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-7y2ma2q3z0zx) — San Luis Obispo, CA / United States
- [Production Support Specialist](https://feeny.ai/job/production-support-specialist-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-er9xx8xx32bp) — San Luis Obispo, CA
- [Test & Evaluation Operations Scheduler](https://feeny.ai/job/test-evaluation-operations-scheduler-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-em4q3jrgzb0g) — San Luis Obispo, CA
- [Electrical Engineer I/II](https://feeny.ai/job/electrical-engineer-i-ii-zone-5-technologies-fort-walton-beach-vtn9924ztz66) — Fort Walton Beach, FL / Fort Worth, TX / San Luis Obispo, CA
- [Manufacturing Engineer I/II](https://feeny.ai/job/manufacturing-engineer-i-ii-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-j2zfb9ggrja8) — San Luis Obispo, CA
- [Loads Engineer - Weapon Performance IV/V](https://feeny.ai/job/loads-engineer-weapon-performance-iv-v-zone-5-technologies-united-states-rcjwmsk0ckny) — United States
- [Loads Engineer - Weapon Performance IV/V](https://feeny.ai/job/loads-engineer-weapon-performance-iv-v-zone-5-technologies-fort-walton-beach-mwy56jk5ac85) — Fort Walton Beach, FL
- [Loads Engineer - Weapon Performance IV/V](https://feeny.ai/job/loads-engineer-weapon-performance-iv-v-zone-5-technologies-fort-worth-vkykmhmya4tz) — Fort Worth, TX
- [Loads Engineer - Weapon Performance IV/V](https://feeny.ai/job/loads-engineer-weapon-performance-iv-v-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-fzq5ah8by55w) — San Luis Obispo, CA