Manufacturing Training Specialist II

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