Rickita Ellis
Seattle
Summary
Manufacturing professional with strong expertise in process optimization, quality control, and lean manufacturing principles. Proven track record of improving production efficiency and reducing waste while maintaining high standards. Strong focus on team collaboration and adaptability to evolving project requirements, ensuring reliable and efficient operations. Equipped with problem-solving skills, technical proficiency in CAD software, and commitment to continuous improvement.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Production Quality Engineer
Amazon Kuiper
02.2025 - Current
- Reduced waste in manufacturing processes by identifying areas of inefficiency and executing lean methodologies.
- Enhanced product reliability by conducting thorough root cause analysis for defects and implementing corrective actions.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to resolve production issues and implement preventive measures, reducing downtime significantly.
- Performed quality inspections and drafted reports to detail non-conforming material issues.
- Championed a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging open communication and fostering employee engagement in problem-solving activities.
- Improved production quality by implementing rigorous inspection processes and updating standard operating procedures.
Manufacturing Engineer Planner
Butler Aerospace
02.2024 - Current
- Presented technical findings to stakeholders, ensuring clear understanding of project status and goals.
- Provided input to team lead regarding areas for process and procedural improvement.
- Wrote, reviewed and edited technical document in accordance with template requirements.
- Reviewed technical drawings developed by CAD technicians and drafters.
- Collaborated with other departments to facilitate successful project completion.
- Utilize the ERP systems GOLDesp and reference resources such as REDARS, TQNS, Change Registers, and CMPRO to complete daily tasks. Ensure that the Bill of Materials (BOM) is accurate and that applicable drawings are used for the work being performed.
Manufacturing Engineer III
Karman Space and Defense
07.2024 - 01.2025
- Developed technical documentation, including standard operating procedures, work instructions, and training documents to support manufacturing operations.
- Provided engineering support during new product launches, coordinating efforts between design, production, and quality control teams.
- Served as technical liaison between customer, manufacturing, quality assurance and vendor and supplier personnel to resolve technical and quality issues.
- Implemented cost-saving measures by identifying opportunities for reducing material waste in the production process.
- Conducted detailed root cause analysis for production issues, preventing recurrence and maintaining high-quality standards.
- Streamlined communication channels between production and engineering teams, facilitating faster resolution of technical issues.
Processing Manufacturing Engineer
Blue Origin
07.2022 - 03.2024
- Provided engineering support to off-shift processing departments, including Cleaning, Passivation and Verification (CPV), Nondestructive Testing (NDT), and Engine Valves, ensuring consistent processing of parts and materials for engine, rocket, and valve assembly.
- Executed troubleshooting and root cause analysis, implementing solutions that reduced operational downtime by 80%.
- Achieved a 35% reduction in escalated blocked work orders over a four month period, leading to an increased workload for processing departments.
- Revised documented work instructions and standard operating procedures using the Jules ERP System.
- Provided a 70% turn-around in work continuation
- Referred to 2D drawings, workmanship standards, AWS (American Welding Society), and AMS (Aerospace Material Specifications) standards to address work stoppages.
- Provided engineering support for detailed mechanical designs, including machined parts, additive parts, weldments, fasteners, seals, and assemblies. Collaborated closely on tight tolerance surface finish callouts and how to process them appropriately.
Manufacturing Engineer
Hexcel
05.2023 - 01.2024
- Reduced the scrap rate on the Sikorsky program by $157,000 in four months, increasing the first-pass yield (FPY) to 98%.
- Achieved a 60% reduction in back pressure defects within three months for the Sikorsky program.
- Established Standard Processing procedures for 2 Sikorsky programs
- Trained 30 operators on standard processing procedures for Sikorsky Programs
- Utilized Velocity ERP, AX, and Pilgrim to track planning and production of work
- Designed shop aid to produce standardized results across the program
- Completed Capital Expense Request for tooling design
D-Shift Lead New Shepard Integration Engineer III
Blue Origin
05.2022 - 07.2022
- Managed and guided a team of five aerospace technicians in the manufacturing and assembly of hardware, avionics, and subassemblies for integration into various rocket modules.
- Organized and scheduled on-the-job training for the shift team members.
- Assigned tasks to team members for completion during shifts
- Tracked completion dates and the tasks required to meet delivery schedules.
- Communicated with production control, material handlers, buyers, and procurement to resolve parts shortages and inventory discrepancies
- Produced high-quality standard work documentation
- Conducted 5-Why root cause analysis when work did not meet quality standards
New Shepard Integration Engineer III
Blue Origin
03.2022 - 05.2022
- Assembled rocket modules per engineering specifications and detailed work instructions of the utmost quality
- Applied continuous improvement methodology to support cost reduction and enhance efficiency and productivity
- Utilized hand tools, measuring, and quality inspection tools
- Reviewed and recommended revisions to work instructions
- Referenced Aerospace Standard Procedures and Processes while completing assemblies
- Utilized CAD/CAM Creo View and Windchill to complete assemblies and work instructions to a high-quality standard
- Read, and interpreted 2D Drawings, and 3D CAD models
Composite Technician III
L3 Harris Technologies
06.2020 - 02.2022
- Managed the kitting of pre-preg carbon fiber materials for four projects, ensuring timely lamination and fabrication of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) while meeting all delivery deadlines.
- Utilized Costpoint ERP to track shipment, procurement, and inventory of materials
- Worked with external equipment vendors to gain insights into the behavior of pre-preg materials in new and innovative processes.
- Followed quality control procedures and verified work to ensure quality products were delivered on time, within budget, and to the predetermined specifications
- Applied continuous improvement methodology to support cost reduction initiatives and help to improve efficiency throughout all production processes
- Created a solution when a procedure deviated from written instructions or when there was a shortage of materials for a program that could cause a delay in the schedule.
Composite Technician and Assembler Sr.
Lockheed Martin
07.2018 - 04.2020
- Trained and assisted coworkers while maintaining a clean and safe work environment
- Demonstrated adaptability by quickly learning new processes, technologies, and software applications relevant to composite manufacturing operations.
- Coordinated with engineers to prevent operational problems that require technical, procedural, or quality assurance actions to resolve
- Worked safely and efficiently while maintaining a clean, FOD-free work area
- Performed complex procedures using chemicals and composites where Control of Substance Hazardous to Health (COSHH) is a priority
Composite Operator II
ITT Aerospace Controls
07.2017 - 11.2017
- Maintained a safe working environment by enforcing strict adherence to safety guidelines and protocols.
- Operated various types of machinery, demonstrating versatility and adaptability in diverse work environments.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure seamless coordination of tasks and efficient completion of projects.
- Accurately documented all operational data, ensuring up-to-date records for review and analysis.
Composite Technician Contractor
SpaceX
04.2017 - 07.2017
- Demonstrated adaptability by quickly learning new processes, technologies, and software applications relevant to composite manufacturing operations.
- Operated machinery and tools safely during composite manufacturing.
- Prioritized work assignments based on customer needs, project timelines, and resource availability to maximize productivity while minimizing downtime.
- Increased workplace safety by implementing proper handling procedures for hazardous materials and adhering to OSHA guidelines.
- Streamlined workflow by organizing tools, equipment, and workspaces for maximum productivity during daily operations.
Composite Technician Contractor
Scaled Composites
05.2016 - 03.2017
- Ensured timely delivery of products by coordinating with team members to meet strict deadlines and customer specifications.
- Operated machinery and tools safely during composite manufacturing.
- Demonstrated adaptability by quickly learning new processes, technologies, and software applications relevant to composite manufacturing operations.
- Collaborated with engineers to troubleshoot issues and develop solutions for complex composite manufacturing challenges.
- Increased workplace safety by implementing proper handling procedures for hazardous materials and adhering to OSHA guidelines. Maintained comprehensive documentation of process controls, quality assurance measures, and inspection records for traceability purposes.
Test Technician Contractor
Virgin Galactic
12.2015 - 02.2016
- Implemented comprehensive test plans to evaluate product functionality, safety, and performance according to industry standards.
- Supported engineering teams in making data-driven decisions by providing timely and accurate test results.
- Promoted a safe working environment by following established safety guidelines and protocols during all testing activities.
- Safeguarded intellectual property by adhering to strict confidentiality protocols when handling sensitive information related to product designs and performance data.
- Operated tools such as band saw, grinder, sander, polisher and mounting machinery.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Computer Networking Administration
DeVry University
Chicago, ILSkills
- Active Aerospace/Defense
- Scrap Reduction
- Full Assembly Production
- Prototype
- Research and Development
- Continuous Improvement
- Lean Basics Certification
- Wet-Layup/Pre-Preg
- Carbon Fiber Fabrication
- DOD Clearance
WEBSITES, PORTFOLIOS, PROFILES
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickita
Timeline
Production Quality Engineer
Amazon Kuiper
02.2025 - Current
Manufacturing Engineer III
Karman Space and Defense
07.2024 - 01.2025
Manufacturing Engineer Planner
Butler Aerospace
02.2024 - Current
Manufacturing Engineer
Hexcel
05.2023 - 01.2024
Processing Manufacturing Engineer
Blue Origin
07.2022 - 03.2024
D-Shift Lead New Shepard Integration Engineer III
Blue Origin
05.2022 - 07.2022
New Shepard Integration Engineer III
Blue Origin
03.2022 - 05.2022
Composite Technician III
L3 Harris Technologies
06.2020 - 02.2022
Composite Technician and Assembler Sr.
Lockheed Martin
07.2018 - 04.2020
Composite Operator II
ITT Aerospace Controls
07.2017 - 11.2017
Composite Technician Contractor
SpaceX
04.2017 - 07.2017
Composite Technician Contractor
Scaled Composites
05.2016 - 03.2017
Test Technician Contractor
Virgin Galactic
12.2015 - 02.2016
Associate of Applied Science - Computer Networking Administration
DeVry University
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