Production Engineer

About SYOS Aerospace

SYOS Aerospace is focused on developing cutting-edge autonomous systems that operate across air, land, and sea. Situated in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand, the company rapidly takes innovative ideas from concept to prototype, refining and delivering products that address real-world challenges globally.

Role Overview

This Production Engineer role is unique and integral to transforming new autonomous systems from prototypes to full production. You will collaborate closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to optimize product assembly, improve processes, solve manufacturing challenges, and ensure readiness for mass production both domestically and internationally. The position demands adaptability and involvement in a variety of tasks, offering the opportunity to lead innovation and production efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with new product introduction moving designs from prototype stages through to large-scale production.
• Enhance product designs to streamline manufacturability and assembly processes.
• Create and maintain production process documentation, quality controls, and standards.
• Support prototype assembly efforts and systematically capture lessons learned to inform improvements.
• Identify and implement strategies to boost product quality, operational efficiency, and delivery timelines.
• Prepare products for manufacturing in New Zealand and international facilities.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, software, and systems engineering teams.

Desired Qualifications and Experience

• Proven experience in Quality, Manufacturing, or Production Engineering within product development or new product introduction contexts.
• Hands-on involvement in prototype builds and transitioning products from concept through to production scale.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, design for manufacturing/assembly principles (DFM/DFA), assembly validation, and production documentation.
• Familiarity with quality assurance tools such as DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans, and First Article Inspection (FAI).
• Ability to read and analyze engineering drawings effectively.
• A proactive, self-motivated approach enabling ownership and successful project delivery.

Additional Preferred Skills

• Experience working within aerospace, defense, UAV/drone, robotics, or advanced manufacturing sectors.
• Knowledge of aerospace quality standards including AS9100.
• Understanding of Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) and supplier quality management.
• Exposure to requirements management software and standards for electronic assembly.
• Educational background with a formal engineering qualification in mechanical, manufacturing, or related disciplines.