Lead Planner - Fabrication Engineering Group (Specialist II)

The Fabrication Engineering Group (72) provides rapid fabrication, assembly, integration, and test of advanced hardware prototypes for national security applications. Examples include the precision machining of fiber mounts for airborne high energy laser systems, multi-functional structures using additive processes for ground-based radar systems, custom printed circuit boards (PCBs) for space-borne data processing, and highly integrated mechanical packaging for undersea communication terminals. The group concentrates on high-complexity parts, quick-turn capabilities, and activities that require concurrent engineering with program teams. Core mechanical competencies span precision fabrication, additive manufacturing, and 5-axis machining. Core PCB capabilities include automated solder paste dispensers, precise pick-n-place machines, and automated optical inspection systems. Assembly, integration, and test capabilities include integration spaces, clean rooms, vibration testing, thermal testing, and space simulation chambers. The Group focuses on state-of-practice prototyping capabilities, technical excellence, exceptional collaboration, and outstanding operation. Job Description The Fabrication Engineering Group seeks a talented, creative, and motivated individual to strengthen the Group’s ability to provide rapid and innovative solutions to challenging problems. The successful candidate is a cross-functional leader responsible for driving the operational execution of engineering development and prototype manufacturing from planning through assembly, integration, and delivery. This role integrates program management, supply chain planning, supplier management, engineering manufacturing execution, and operational readiness to ensure prototype hardware is delivered to programs on time, within budget, and to the required quality and technical specifications. The successful candidate will collaborate with an interdisciplinary team including program team members, shop area leads, and the planning team to optimize and effectively execute shop operations to develop a prototype system. A unique aspect of MIT LL is that we develop prototype systems rather than high volume production. The role of the Lead Planner will focus on effective execution in a job shop environment. The ideal candidate will partner with the program planning team to continuously improve fabrication schedule alignment to program needs as well as optimize utilization of Fabrication Engineering resources and ensure a smooth transition from planning to fabrication of prototypes. The position serves as the operational bridge between Engineering, Program Management, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality, Finance, and external suppliers. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable developing an integrated program schedule, managing cost and capacity constraints, working through supplier issues, and getting into the details of a PCBA, cable assembly, machined chassis, or electro-mechanical build. The role will establish and maintain the planning and execution infrastructure required to translate engineering development plans into executable manufacturing and supply-chain activities. Program Operations and Integrated Planning - Develop and maintain cross-functional plans spanning Engineering, Supply Chain, Procurement, Manufacturing, Quality, and Integration Supply Chain and Master Scheduling – Coordinate master development and production schedules, translating engineering requirements, BOMs, and program milestones into material and procurement plans. Drive material readiness, identify and mitigate supply-chain risks, and coordinate configuration change management as it affects supply chain partners and manufacturing areas. Vendor and Supplier Management – Manage operational relationships with key component and prototype manufacturing suppliers, including commitments, milestones, capacity, cost, quality, and delivery. Prototype Manufacturing Execution –…

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