Principal Manufacturing Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading firearms manufacturer is seeking a Principal Manufacturing Engineer to develop and improve machining processes and production lines. The ideal candidate should have over 10 years of experience, strong knowledge in GD&T, and expertise in CNC machining. Responsibilities include managing projects, achieving production targets, and collaborating with R&D for innovative solutions. This role demands excellent communication skills and a creative problem-solving approach.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering.
• Deep knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5M-2009).
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement manufacturing processes for new firearm designs.
• Manage multiple projects for new product launches.
• Achieve cost, productivity, and quality goals.

Skills

GD&T

Project management

CNC machining

Documentation

Data analysis

Creative problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

SOLIDWORKS

Gantt charts

Job description

Principal Manufacturing Engineer

SIG SAUER, Inc. is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, airguns, suppressors, remote-controlled weapons stations, and training. With over 250 years of history, SIG SAUER combines American ingenuity, German engineering, and Swiss precision. The company is known for industry-leading quality and innovation, serving the U.S. Military, global defense, law enforcement, and civilian markets. Headquartered in Newington, New Hampshire, SIG SAUER employs over 3,400 people across multiple locations worldwide. For more information, visit: www.sigsauer.com

Position Summary: The Principal Manufacturing Engineer will develop, implement, and improve machining and assembly processes, new technology, and full production lines at SIG SAUER's firearm facilities. Focus areas include CNC machining, assembly of firearm components, and implementing breakthrough manufacturing technologies with an emphasis on planning, capital procurement, and cost justification. The role involves executing manufacturing feasibility, quality planning, and leading cross-functional teams to resolve internal quality concerns.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Determine manufacturing processes for new firearm designs, providing budget estimates for equipment, tools, and production rates. Serve as a subject matter expert.
• Manage multiple projects using project management techniques to procure tooling and equipment for new product launches.
• Support several projects simultaneously, including major capital investments and plant infrastructure.
• Achieve cost, productivity, and quality goals for multiple production lines through collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Develop annual cost savings plans using established procedures.
• Create detailed process drawings, quality control plans, work instructions, and production routings, focusing on NPI and new manufacturing technologies.
• Evaluate and improve product manufacturability, applying GD&T and dimensional analysis.
• Provide expert consultation in high-volume CNC machining, machine and tool design, assembly, metal finishing, automation, and robotics.
• Develop and implement new systems and processes, managing teams to ensure successful production integration.
• Specify and procure capital equipment, including detailed machine specifications and scope of work, negotiating with suppliers.
• Plan, debug, and execute turnkey machine runoffs, ensuring compliance with specifications.
• Recommend and implement new technologies to improve product quality and manufacturing efficiency.
• Collaborate with R&D to enable production of innovative products.
• Address quality issues using statistical methods, including Gage R&R, GD&T, and control plans. Advanced certifications like Six Sigma are required.
• Mentor less experienced engineers, recommending training and development opportunities.
• Consult on complex projects, acting as a top-level contributor and specialist.
• Order components for automated machines based on engineering BOMs.
• Design tooling, gages, and work-holding systems from concept to production, keeping designs simple and cost-effective.
• Maintain project schedules and update drawings as needed.
• Lead PPI efforts and perform miscellaneous duties as assigned.

Education, Experience, and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering with 10+ years of experience.
• Deep knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5M-2009).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, SOLIDWORKS, and data analysis tools.
• Experience with materials, heat-treating, manufacturing processes, machinery, and production lines.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to lead, plan, and execute multiple projects with high-quality standards.
• Strong documentation and record-keeping skills, familiar with project management tools like Gantt charts.
• Creative problem-solving skills and extensive industry experience.

Working Conditions:

• Sitting at a desk and working on a computer for extended periods.
• Physical ability to lift up to 25 pounds and perform manual tasks.
• Wearing PPE as required and adhering to safety protocols.

Qualified applicants will be considered regardless of protected characteristics, veteran status, or other legally protected categories.