Manufacturing Engineer

Position Summary:

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and sustaining manufacturing processes in a metal fabrication environment. This role translates drawings and specifications into efficient, repeatable production methods while driving improvements in quality, throughput, cost, and safety. The Manufacturing Engineer works cross-functionally with production, quality, sales, and supply chain to ensure manufacturability and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Process Development & Optimization

• Develop and document manufacturing processes for laser cutting, punching, forming, welding, and finishing.
• Create and maintain routings, work instructions, and standard work.
• Optimize cycle times, material utilization, and labor efficiency.
• Design and implement tooling, fixtures, and jigs to improve repeatability and productivity.

New Product Introduction (NPI)

• Review customer prints, CAD/Solidworks models, and specifications for manufacturability.
• Collaborate with sales and to support accurate quoting (labor, routing, and process assumptions).
• Lead production launch activities, including first article builds and validation.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify and execute process improvement initiatives using Lean manufacturing principles.
• Reduce scrap, rework, and bottlenecks.
• Lead or support root cause analysis (RCA) or problem-solving activities.

Production Support

• Troubleshoot manufacturing issues on the shop floor (forming issues, weld distortion, tolerance challenges, etc.).
• Provide technical guidance to operators, programmers, and supervisors.
• Support scheduling and production planning with accurate process data.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure processes meet customer specifications and internal quality standards.
• Support corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Collaborate with Quality on inspection methods and control plans.

Programming & Systems (as applicable)

• Develop or support programming for laser, punch, and press brake operations.
• Maintain accurate ERP/MRP system data (BOMs, routings, labor standards).
• Support integration of automation and digital manufacturing tools.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3–5+ years of experience in a production environment.
• Experience with sheet metal processes strongly preferred.

Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of:
  • Laser cutting, punch, press brake forming, and welding processes
  • GD&T and blueprint reading
  • Tooling and fixturing design
• Experience with software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD).
• Familiarity with programming software for fabrication equipment.
• Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems.

Process Improvement

• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
• Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis capability.

Core Competencies

• Proactively identifies inefficiencies and implements measurable improvements
• Strong floor presence; collaborates effectively with operators
• Balances speed, cost, and quality in decision-making
• Translates complex engineering concepts into practical shop solutions
• Data-driven; uses metrics to guide improvements

Work Environment

• Combination of office and shop floor exposure
• Regular interaction with fabrication equipment and production teams
• PPE required in manufacturing areas