Process Improvement Engineer (USI7) (2106)

VSE Corp

Independence, KS

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Analysis Skills, Automation, Calendar Management, Calibration, Capacity Management, Coaching, Communication Skills, Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), Continuous Improvement, Corrective Action, Cost Control, Customer Satisfaction, Data Analysis, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), Electrical Components, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Hydraulic Engineering, Lean Manufacturing, Maintain Compliance, Manufacturing Process Engineering, Mentoring, Microsoft Excel, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), Operational Improvement, Operational Strategy, Performance Metrics, Power BI, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Process Engineering, Process Improvement, Process Manufacturing, Regulations, Reliability Analysis, Root Cause Analysis, SAP, Technical Drawing, Test Equipment, Testing, TrAX (Transformation API for XML), Transportation Routing, Trend Analysis, User Documentation, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Independence, KS
POSTED
6 days ago

SUMMARY: The Process Improvement Engineer will lead initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing customer satisfaction. This role will focus on improving turnaround time (TAT), throughput, quality, and cost efficiency while ensuring strict compliance with FAA/EASA Part 145 and OEM requirements. This position requires a strong understanding of shop-level operations, test systems, and component-level workflows.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Review discrepancies between technical data and part condition, ensuring compliance and accuracy.
  • Track, analyze, and report on non-conformances, using data to identify trends and areas for improvement.
  • Lead root cause analysis to address process-related issues, developing and recommending corrective actions.
  • Implement corrective actions and continuously monitor the impact to ensure long-term effectiveness.
  • Create and update work instructions, including part routings and operation sheets, to reflect process improvements.
  • Effectively communicate corrective action plans, progress, and results to stakeholders at all levels within the organization.
  • Research and implement innovative technologies and processes to enhance company capabilities and drive innovation.
  • Serve as a liaison with vendors, suppliers, and customers to support continuous improvement efforts.
  • Analyze end-to-end component repair workflows (receiving, teardown, inspection, repair, assembly, test, and release)
  • Identify bottlenecks in shop processes such as teardown, piece-part repair, and test stand utilization.
  • Improve test stand utilization (automation), capacity planning, and scheduling efficiency.
  • Perform root cause analysis (RCA) on failures, repeat discrepancies, and no-fault-found (NFF) events.
  • Develop and maintain process maps, routing structures, and standard work instructions.
  • Collaborate with engineering, quality, and technicians.
  • Support implementation and optimization of MRO systems (e.g., ERP, MES, TRAX, AMOS, SAP)
  • Ensure all improvements comply with FAA/EASA regulations and OEM manuals (CMMs)
  • Track KPIs such as TAT, first-pass yield (FPY), test yield, and labor efficiency.
  • Support the culture of continuous improvement by mentoring and coaching teams on Lean principles and methodologies.
  • Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field

  • OR 3 years of related experience in lieu of degree.

  • 5 years of experience in process engineering, manufacturing, or a related field.

  • Strong understanding of accessory repair operations (mechanical, hydraulic, electrical components)

  • Ability to interpret technical drawings and data.

  • Experience with process mapping, workflow optimization, and data analysis.

  • Familiarity with FAA/EASA Part 145 regulations and component maintenance practices.

  • Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage at all levels of the organization.

  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Power Bi, or similar tools.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

  • Hands-on experience in a related OEM or MRO Manufacturing/Process Engineering discipline.
  • Experience with specific accessory types (fuel systems, air, etc.)
  • Knowledge of test equipment, calibration processes, and diagnostic systems
  • Familiarity with OEM Component Maintenance Manuals (CMMs)
  • Experience with reliability analysis and failure modes.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to drive continuous improvement initiatives.

OTHER:

  • The selected applicant will be subject to a background check and drug testing.

About the Company

V

VSE Corp

RAISE THE BAR

At VSE, we believe in celebrating our vibrant 60-year history of delivering exceptional value while continuously raising the bar for our land, sea, and air customers. From excellence in service for our federal and commercial customers to creating a culture of accountability and growth for our employees to consistently delivering and improving for our partners and stakeholders, the VSE family of companies share a commitment to not just meeting expectations, but exceeding them. VSE is your partner for success in your critical missions on land, sea, and air.

COMPANY SIZE
2,500 to 4,999 employees
INDUSTRY
Aerospace and Defense
FOUNDED
1959
WEBSITE
https://www.vsecorp.com/about.html