Rapid Prototyping Master Scheduler

RTX
Full-time•$82k-164kundefined (USD)•United States
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📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Rapid Prototyping Master Scheduler

Company: RTX

Location: Tucson, AZ, USA

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Manufacturing/Operations Planning

Date Posted: 2025-06-09T00:00:00

Experience Level: 5+ years

Remote Status: Onsite

🎨 Role Summary

  • Manage and optimize complex master schedules within a fast-paced, high-volume rapid prototyping and fabrication environment.
  • Collaborate with project managers and shop leadership to ensure on-time delivery of critical engineering prototypes and fabricated components.
  • Utilize and enhance internal shop floor management systems to analyze data, identify bottlenecks, and implement mitigation strategies.
  • Bridge the gap between engineering design, fabrication capabilities, and project timelines through effective scheduling and communication.
📝 Enhancement Note: While not strictly a "design" role in the traditional sense of visual or interaction design, this position is crucial for supporting the engineering design process through rapid prototyping and fabrication. The scheduler's ability to manage complex timelines directly impacts the speed and efficiency with which design iterations can be tested and validated. The focus here is on the operational side of bringing engineering designs to life in a physical form.

🖼️ Primary Responsibilities

  • Develop, implement, and maintain detailed master schedules for rapid prototyping and fabrication projects, ensuring alignment with project timelines and customer commitments.
  • Analyze shop floor capacity, identify potential constraints, and proactively work with project managers and shop leadership to develop and execute mitigation plans to optimize workflow.
  • Utilize the internal shop floor management system (RAPID) for data analysis, reporting, and continuous improvement of scheduling processes and system functionality.
  • Oversee the maintenance and ongoing development of the RAPID system in collaboration with the software team to enhance scheduling capabilities and user experience.
  • Communicate schedule status, risks, and changes effectively to project managers, shop leadership, and department managers to ensure transparency and coordinated efforts.
📝 Enhancement Note: These responsibilities emphasize the critical role of the Master Scheduler in a prototyping environment. The focus is on dynamic scheduling, constraint management, and system utilization, which are key to supporting the agile and iterative nature of rapid prototyping. The mention of working with a software team highlights potential for process improvement and system enhancement, adding a layer of technical collaboration to the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) is typically required.

Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience implementing shop floor control processes in areas such as material requirements planning, factory floor scheduling, workflow tracking, or capacity planning. Experience managing complex scheduling constraints is essential.

Required Skills:

  • Proven experience in developing and maintaining complex master schedules.
  • Proficiency in using scheduling tools such as MS Project or similar software.
  • Experience with material requirements planning (MRP).
  • Strong understanding of factory floor scheduling principles and practices.
  • Ability to analyze workflow data and implement tracking mechanisms.
  • Experience in capacity planning and resource allocation in a manufacturing or fabrication environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage schedule constraints and develop mitigation strategies.
  • Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date.
  • U.S. citizenship is required.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with machine shop, mechanical fabrication, or electronics fabrication environments.
  • Advanced proficiency with MS Project.
  • Experience working with SAP ERP systems.
  • Proficiency with MS Office Suite, particularly for data analysis and reporting.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic teaming environment.
📝 Enhancement Note: The skills and qualifications are aligned with the operational and technical demands of a master scheduling role in a defense manufacturing context. The emphasis on specific software like MS Project and SAP, coupled with experience in fabrication environments, provides a clear picture of the technical proficiency required. The security clearance requirement is a critical piece of information for potential applicants.

🎨 Portfolio & Creative Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

While this role doesn't require a traditional design portfolio showcasing visual work, candidates should be prepared to present examples of their work in schedule management and operational optimization. This could include:

  • Examples of complex master schedules developed and managed.
  • Case studies detailing how scheduling constraints were identified and resolved.
  • Documentation of process improvements implemented in shop floor control or scheduling systems.

Process Documentation:

Candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to:

  • Gathering requirements and data for schedule development.
  • Utilizing scheduling software to build and maintain timelines.
  • Monitoring progress, identifying deviations, and adjusting schedules accordingly.
📝 Enhancement Note: Adapting the "Portfolio & Creative Requirements" section for a non-traditional design role involves focusing on the demonstration of relevant skills through work examples and process documentation. This provides candidates with clear guidance on how to showcase their qualifications in a way that is meaningful for this specific position.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $82,000 USD - $164,000 USD per year.

The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
  • Life Insurance, Short-term Disability, and Long-term Disability coverage.
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
  • Flexible Work Schedules (dependent on specific business unit and position).
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • Employee Scholar Program for further education.
  • Parental Leave.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Company Holidays.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week. The role is onsite, requiring presence at the specified location.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly provided in the original job description, removing the need for estimation. The benefits listed are comprehensive and typical of a large defense contractor, offering a strong package for employees.

🎯Team & Company Context

🏢 Company & Design Culture

Industry: Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing / Defense

Company Size: 10,001+ employees (approximately 133,141 employees globally)

Founded: While the exact founding date for RTX as currently structured may vary due to mergers and acquisitions, its legacy companies have over 100 years of experience.

Team Structure:

  • This role is within the Engineering Prototyping and Fabrication department (the "Bike Shop"), part of the Systems Integration and Test directorate’s Environment Center.
  • The team is focused on providing rapid prototyping, early demonstration, and product development support.
  • Collaboration with project managers, fabrication shop leadership, software teams, and engineering teams is essential.

Methodology:

  • The team supports engineering teams throughout the product development process, suggesting an iterative and potentially agile approach to prototyping.
  • The focus is on rapid turnaround and demonstrated solutions.

Company Website: https://www.rtx.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Providing context about RTX's industry, size, and history helps applicants understand the scale and nature of the organization. Detailing the specific department and its function ("Bike Shop") gives insight into the immediate team environment and its role in supporting broader engineering efforts. The mention of "rapid prototyping" and "demonstrated solutions" hints at the pace and goals of the team.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Design Career Level: This role appears to be at a mid-to-senior level, requiring a Bachelor's degree and a minimum of five years of relevant experience in scheduling and shop floor control within a technical or manufacturing environment. It involves managing complex processes and potentially overseeing system development.

Reporting Structure: The Master Scheduler will work closely with the shop project management team and shop leadership. The reporting structure likely places this role within the operations or engineering support hierarchy, potentially reporting to a manager within the Prototyping and Fabrication department.

Design Impact: While not directly involved in product design, this role has a significant impact on the speed and efficiency of the engineering design cycle. By optimizing prototype fabrication schedules, the Master Scheduler directly influences the ability of engineering teams to test, iterate, and validate their designs rapidly.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Potential for advancement to leadership roles within the Prototyping and Fabrication department or broader operations management.
  • Opportunities to specialize in advanced scheduling techniques, supply chain management, or manufacturing operations.
  • Growth through contributing to and potentially leading the development and enhancement of internal shop floor management systems.
📝 Enhancement Note: Analyzing the role's level based on the required experience and responsibilities provides clarity for applicants. Connecting the scheduling function to the broader engineering design cycle highlights the strategic importance of the role. Identifying potential growth paths within operations, system development, or management offers insight into long-term career prospects at RTX.

🌐 Work Environment

Studio Type: Onsite at a manufacturing and fabrication facility supporting rapid prototyping.

Office Location(s): AZ505: 6880 South Tucson Blvd. 6880 South Tucson Boulevard Building B, Tucson, AZ, 85706-7016 USA.

Design Workspace Context:

  • The work environment is primarily within a physical prototyping and fabrication shop setting.
  • Collaboration spaces are likely available for interacting with project managers, engineers, and shop personnel.
  • Access to relevant scheduling software, internal systems (RAPID), and potentially manufacturing execution systems (MES) will be provided.

Work Schedule: Full-time, onsite position with standard working hours. Flexibility might be available depending on specific project needs and business unit policies, but the core requirement is onsite presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Describing the work environment as an onsite fabrication facility sets clear expectations for applicants. Detailing the specific location and mentioning the likely presence of collaboration spaces and relevant software provides a more concrete picture of the daily work setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Design Interview Process:

  • Initial screening interview to assess basic qualifications and fit.
  • Technical interviews focusing on experience with scheduling, shop floor control processes, and relevant software (MS Project, potentially SAP). Be prepared to discuss specific examples of scheduling challenges you've faced and how you resolved them.
  • Behavioral interviews to assess organizational skills, communication abilities, and ability to work in a team environment.
  • Discussions about your experience managing schedules in a dynamic, fast-paced setting and your approach to working with cross-functional teams (project managers, engineers, fabrication staff).

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Prepare to discuss specific projects or scenarios where your scheduling expertise directly contributed to successful outcomes in a manufacturing or prototyping environment.
  • Be ready to walk through examples of complex schedules you've managed, explaining your methodology and the tools you used.
  • Highlight instances where you identified and mitigated schedule risks or bottlenecks.

Challenge Preparation:

  • While a traditional design challenge is unlikely, be prepared for potential case studies or hypothetical scenarios related to scheduling in a rapid prototyping environment.
  • Practice articulating your thought process for developing and optimizing schedules under pressure and with dynamic constraints.
  • Review principles of capacity planning and workflow management.

ATS Keywords:

  • Skills: Master Scheduling, Production Scheduling, Factory Scheduling, Shop Floor Control, Material Requirements Planning (MRP), Capacity Planning, Workflow Tracking, Schedule Management, Constraint Management, Mitigation Strategies, Project Management, Data Analysis, Process Improvement, Communication, Collaboration, Problem Solving, Organizational Skills.
  • Tools & Technology: MS Project, SAP ERP, MS Office Suite, RAPID (internal system - mention familiarity with similar systems), Scheduling Software, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES - general knowledge).
  • Methodologies: Rapid Prototyping, Fabrication, Manufacturing Operations, Supply Chain Principles, Lean Manufacturing (beneficial).
  • Industry Terms: Prototyping, Fabrication, Defense Industry, Aerospace, Security Clearance, Onsite Role.
📝 Enhancement Note: Tailoring the interview preparation and portfolio review advice to the specifics of a scheduling role in a manufacturing context is crucial. The focus shifts from visual design to demonstrating expertise in operational planning and problem-solving. Providing relevant ATS keywords helps candidates optimize their applications for this specific type of role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Tools:

  • MS Project: Essential tool for building and managing complex project schedules. Expect to demonstrate proficiency in creating, maintaining, and analyzing schedules within this software.
  • Internal Shop Floor Management System (RAPID): This proprietary system is central to the role. While you won't need prior experience with RAPID specifically, highlighting experience with similar Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) or shop floor control software will be beneficial. Expect to learn and become proficient in using RAPID for data analysis and schedule management.

Collaboration & Handoff:

  • MS Office Suite: Used for communication (Outlook), data analysis (Excel), and presentations (PowerPoint). Strong Excel skills for data manipulation and analysis related to scheduling and capacity will be valuable.
  • Internal Communication Platforms: Likely utilizes company-standard tools for team communication and collaboration with project managers and shop personnel.

Research & Testing:

While not a primary focus for this role, understanding how scheduling impacts the research and testing phases of rapid prototyping is important. Familiarity with systems that track materials or project progress can be relevant.

📝 Enhancement Note: Clearly listing the required tools, especially MS Project and the internal RAPID system, is vital. Explaining the context of tool usage (e.g., MS Project for complex schedules, RAPID for shop floor management) gives applicants a better understanding of the technical demands of the role. Mentioning MS Office highlights necessary foundational skills.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Design Values:

While the direct focus isn't on traditional design values, the underlying principles of efficiency, accuracy, collaboration, and problem-solving are key to success in this role within a prototyping environment.

  • Efficiency: Optimizing schedules to ensure timely delivery of prototypes is paramount.
  • Accuracy: Maintaining accurate and reliable schedules is critical for effective planning and execution.
  • Collaboration: Working closely with project managers, leadership, and shop personnel is essential for successful scheduling and problem resolution.
  • Problem-Solving: Proactively identifying and mitigating scheduling constraints requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Collaboration Style:

  • The role requires close collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including project managers, shop leadership, and potentially engineering teams.
  • Effective communication and the ability to work cohesively in a diverse teaming environment are highlighted as preferred skills.
  • Expect a collaborative environment focused on achieving project goals through coordinated efforts.
📝 Enhancement Note: Adapting the "Team Culture & Values" section involves identifying the values and collaboration styles that are relevant to an operational role within a technical and manufacturing environment. Focusing on efficiency, accuracy, collaboration, and problem-solving provides a realistic picture of the team's priorities.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Design Challenges:

  • Dynamic Environment: Managing schedules in a "fast-paced high volume, low mix, dynamic manufacturing engineering fabrication environment" presents a constant challenge of adapting to changing priorities and unexpected constraints.
  • Bottleneck Management: Identifying and effectively managing bottlenecks within the prototyping and fabrication process requires continuous analysis and proactive problem-solving.
  • System Enhancement: Working with the software team to oversee the maintenance and continued development of the internal scheduling system (RAPID) presents technical and collaborative challenges.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Opportunity to deepen expertise in advanced scheduling techniques and operational optimization within a complex manufacturing environment.
  • Potential to gain experience in system development and contribute to the evolution of internal operational tools.
  • Exposure to a wide range of rapid prototyping and fabrication processes and technologies.
  • Opportunities for professional development through company-sponsored training programs, including the Employee Scholar Program.
📝 Enhancement Note: Highlighting the specific challenges of working in a dynamic prototyping environment provides candidates with a realistic understanding of the role's demands. Connecting these challenges to opportunities for skill development and learning (e.g., advanced scheduling, system enhancement) frames them as growth opportunities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Design Process Questions:

While not a design role, be prepared to discuss your process for:

  • Developing a master schedule from initial requirements and constraints.
  • Monitoring schedule progress and identifying potential deviations or risks.
  • Analyzing data to identify bottlenecks and optimize resource allocation.
  • Communicating schedule information and changes to stakeholders.

Company Culture Questions:

  • Research RTX's values (Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, Innovation) and be prepared to discuss how your work style aligns with these values.
  • Learn about the Systems Integration and Test directorate and the role of the Environment Center ("Bike Shop") within the organization.
  • Be ready to discuss your experience working collaboratively in a team environment and across different functions (engineering, fabrication, software).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Focus on presenting case studies or examples that demonstrate your ability to manage complex schedules, identify and resolve constraints, and improve operational efficiency.
  • Clearly articulate your process and the tools you used in each example.
  • Highlight the impact of your scheduling efforts on project timelines and outcomes.
📝 Enhancement Note: Providing targeted interview preparation advice, including the types of questions to expect and how to frame responses based on the role's requirements, is valuable for applicants. Adapting the "portfolio presentation" concept to focus on schedule management examples makes the advice relevant to this specific position.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this design position:

  • Submit your application through this link
  • Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in master scheduling, shop floor control, and relevant software proficiency (MS Project, SAP, etc.). Include specific examples of managing complex schedules and solving operational challenges.
  • Prepare to discuss your experience with material requirements planning, capacity planning, and workflow tracking during the interview process.
  • Research RTX and the specific department to demonstrate your understanding of the company's work and the role's context within the organization.
⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and design industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.
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