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Manufacturing Training Specialist II

San Luis Obispo, California

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.

The Manufacturing Training Specialist II independently delivers, supports, and evaluates manufacturing training for new and existing production employees. This role supports the Zone5 Foundations onboarding program, hands-on production simulation, MES and andon training, role-readiness assessment, and targeted on-the-job training for employees supporting UAV Aircraft Assembly, UAV Avionics Assembly, and other production-related roles. 

 

This is a working-level training role designed to prepare employees for production floor release and support continued skill development when employees transition areas, experience workmanship issues, or require additional production training.  

 

This role involves working closely with Production/Operations/Engineering teams to support the needs of all Zone5 multiple programs and value streams. 

 

Scope & Ownership 

  • Owns assigned Zone5 Foundations training modules and onboarding activities 
  • Independently trains employees in basic and intermediate production-readiness expectations 
  • Supports role-readiness assessment for assigned production areas 
  • Provides targeted OJT support for production staff 
  • Maintains training records, skill matrices, and qualification evidence for assigned employees or areas 
  • Supports continuous improvement of training content and simulation activities 

Key Responsibilities 

Zone5 Foundations Execution 

  • Deliver new-hire onboarding training through the Zone5 Foundations program 
  • Lead employees through simulated production exercises before release to the production floor 
  • Train employees on production expectations, standard work behavior, escalation practices, and documentation discipline 
  • Assess employee readiness against role expectations for production-related positions 

Production Systems & Simulation Training 

  • Train employees on MES usage, work instruction navigation, production data entry, and traveler completion 
  • Train employees on andon system usage, escalation timing, and production communication expectations 
  • Develop and support realistic production simulation scenarios that reinforce shop floor behaviors 
  • Validate that employees can complete basic production steps in a controlled training environment 

Workmanship, Compliance & Quality Support 

  • Support training related to IPC awareness, ESD, FOD, safety, workmanship expectations, and quality culture 
  • Reinforce traceability, configuration discipline, clean-as-you-go behavior, and defect prevention 
  • Support targeted retraining when workmanship issues, process escapes, or recurring errors are identified 
  • Coordinate with Quality and Manufacturing Engineering to ensure training reflects current standards and production requirements 

OJT & Production Support 

  • Provide on-the-job training support for employees transitioning into new areas or roles 
  • Support production teams when employees require additional coaching or skill reinforcement 
  • Assist supervisors and managers in identifying training gaps that affect production readiness 
  • Document retraining activities and provide feedback on employee readiness 

 

Training System Support 

  • Maintain assigned training records, skill checklists, and qualification documentation 
  • Support training matrix updates and employee readiness tracking 
  • Recommend improvements to training materials, exercises, checklists, and evaluation methods 
  • Communicate training status, risks, and readiness concerns to leadership 

 

Qualifications 

  • 2–4 years of experience in manufacturing, aerospace, defense, UAV production, electronics, training, quality, or related field 
  • Experience training, mentoring, or coaching production employees preferred 
  • Working knowledge of manufacturing processes, work instructions, travelers, and production documentation 
  • Familiarity with MES systems, digital work instructions, and production execution tools 
  • Familiarity with IPC, ESD, FOD, safety, quality systems, or aerospace manufacturing standards preferred 
  • Ability to assess employee readiness and identify practical skill gaps 
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills 
  • Ability to work effectively with Production, Quality, Manufacturing Engineering, MES, and Operations leadership 

 

Pay range for this role

$36 - $43.50 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 
  • 4 weeks of paid time off each year
  • 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.

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