DANIEL NIKO
Long Beach
Summary
Manufacturing professional with strong foundation in analytical problem-solving and technical skills. Known for effective team collaboration and adaptability to changing project requirements. Proficient in CAD software and data analysis. Reliable and result-driven, consistently delivering high-quality outcomes while supporting team objectives.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
NDE Operations Supervisor
SpaceX
03.2023 - 10.2025
- Managed a team of 34 in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, overseeing scheduling, safety, and process improvement.
- Team sizes varied from 34 across the 1st and 2nd shifts, with 7-day coverage, to 6 individual inspectors on the 2nd shift.
- Mentored peer supervisors and internal/external leads, providing insight and understanding of business operations, as well as leadership styles.
- This resulted in 2 lead inspectors being promoted to supervisor and 4 inspectors being promoted to lead inspector.
- Lead day-to-day operations of NDE for Turbo Pump Assembly, Nose Cone Extension, Panel Fabrication, Merlin Engine Assembly/Sub-Assembly, and Composite assembly inspection, ensuring compliance with safety protocols and quality/compliance standards (AS9100, NAS410, NAS5009).
- Implementing process improvements, resulting in enhanced efficiency and reduced downtime.
- Optimize NDE procedures, achieving improvements in lead time, and process consistency. Develop strategic action plans to address operational challenges effectively.
Lead Propulsion Technician, Tube Shop
SpaceX
05.2021 - 03.2023
- Lead a team of 7 to 30 across multiple process lanes for fluid system manufacturing, e.g., pressure testing, inspection, nonconformance rework/repair, in-process inspection, final preparation, and insulation/thermal protection installation.
- Fostered strong partnerships with engineering and operations teams, ensuring seamless integration of new manufacturing strategies. Mentored new technicians, elevating team expertise.
- Optimized propulsion systems, enhancing operational efficiency. Implemented targeted training programs, significantly boosting team performance and productivity.
- Facilitated cross-functional synergy, ensuring seamless tech adoption. Nurtured a culture of knowledge sharing, fostering team growth, and cohesion.
Propulsion Technician, Tube Shop
SpaceX
09.2020 - 05.2021
- Meticulously processed and tested propulsion tubes, ensuring precise alignment with engineering specifications.
- Implemented new training and labor distribution protocols, streamlining the assembly process. Contributed to team efforts in optimizing propulsion system efficiency.
- Reduced cycle times while maintaining high-quality standards. Collaborated with engineers to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues promptly.
Tooling & Drafting Engineering Intern
Impresa Aerospace
- Created detailed 2D and 3D CAD models and engineering drawings using SolidWorks/AutoCAD (or whichever software you used).
- Assisted in the design and fabrication of production tooling, jigs, and fixtures to improve manufacturing efficiency.
- Collaborated with engineers and machinists to refine designs and ensure manufacturability and safety compliance.
- Updated and maintained engineering documentation, including BOMs, revision histories, and drawing standards.
Education
Bachelor's degree - Mechanical Engineering
California State University-Northridge
03.2016
Skills
- Led a campus-wide initiative to standardize and automate procurement of a critical inspection reagent, improving reliability across 8 work centers within the department
- Implemented automated inventory and ordering workflows that ensured built-in compliance with key internal and external audit requirements, eliminating the need for manual corrections and reducing risk of non-conformance
- Developed and deployed a standardized digital planning and recording system for process checks, migrating from isolated off-network files to the company's centralized platform
- Enabled real-time data visibility and traceability for 160 inspectors, dramatically improving querying, feedback loops, and audit readiness across all 8 work centers
- Directed operations for the site's first inspection qualification under newly adopted corporate protocols, surpassing traditional industry standards and establishing the blueprint for future qualifications
- Coordinated quality, engineering, and operations stakeholders to deliver a fully compliant, audit-ready process under the new framework
Timeline
NDE Operations Supervisor
SpaceX
03.2023 - 10.2025
Lead Propulsion Technician, Tube Shop
SpaceX
05.2021 - 03.2023
Propulsion Technician, Tube Shop
SpaceX
09.2020 - 05.2021
Tooling & Drafting Engineering Intern
Impresa Aerospace
Bachelor's degree - Mechanical Engineering
California State University-Northridge