Associate Manufacturing Engineer Trainee

RBC Bearings; Westminster (SC); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

RBC Bearings is seeking an Associate Manufacturing Engineer in South Carolina to support production with hands-on problem solving, CAD-driven tooling design, and continuous improvement initiatives. You will collaborate with engineering, maintenance, quality, and production teams to enhance throughput, reduce downtime, and drive robust manufacturing processes for aerospace parts.

Ideal candidates bring a strong mechanical aptitude, CAD experience (SolidWorks/AutoCAD), and the ability to read and

Qualifications

• Associate degree or technical equivalent required with focus on mechanical systems or manufacturing processes.
• Proficiency with CAD tools and reading engineering drawings.
• Experience in manufacturing environment and problem-solving mindset.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily engineering support to production teams to resolve manufacturing issues and minimize downtime.
• Assist with troubleshooting equipment, tooling, and process-related concerns on the manufacturing floor.
• Evaluate processes to improve productivity, efficiency, and quality.
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions for recurring issues.

Skills

CAD software

Mechanical aptitude

Problem solving

Communication skills

Education

Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology

Industrial Engineering Technology

Mechanical Drafting/Design

Manufacturing Technology

Related technical discipline

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Position Summary

The Associate Manufacturing Engineer plays a key role in supporting production operations by improving manufacturing processes, designing tooling and fixtures, troubleshooting production challenges, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. This hands-on position works closely with engineering, maintenance, quality, and production teams to enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and support the successful manufacture of aerospace products. This role is ideal for an individual with a strong mechanical aptitude, CAD experience, and a passion for solving real-world manufacturing challenges.

What You'll Do

Manufacturing & Process Support

• Provide daily engineering support to production teams to resolve manufacturing issues and minimize downtime.
• Assist with troubleshooting equipment, tooling, and process-related concerns on the manufacturing floor.
• Evaluate manufacturing processes and identify opportunities to improve productivity, efficiency, and quality.
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions for recurring production issues.

Tooling & Fixture Design

• Design, develop, and improve manufacturing fixtures, tooling, jigs, and workholding solutions.
• Utilize CAD software to create and revise engineering drawings and models under engineering supervision.
• Identify opportunities to reduce tooling costs while maintaining production requirements and quality standards.

Continuous Improvement

• Analyze setup and changeover processes and implement improvements to reduce cycle times and increase throughput.
• Collect and evaluate production data to support Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Document process changes and maintain accurate manufacturing records.

Operator & Production Support

• Assist production operators with interpreting engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions.
• Ensure adherence to engineering standards, manufacturing specifications, safety requirements, and quality expectations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support efficient and effective production operations.

Additional Responsibilities

• Support preventative maintenance efforts designed to improve equipment reliability and uptime.
• Participate in special projects and process improvement initiatives as assigned.
• Perform other duties as required to support business objectives.

Qualifications

Education

• Associate degree in:
  • Mechanical Engineering Technology
  • Industrial Engineering Technology
  • Mechanical Drafting/Design
  • Manufacturing Technology
  • Or a related technical discipline

Experience & Skills

• 1-3 years of manufacturing experience preferred.
• Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD.
• Ability to read, interpret, and explain engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively with engineers, operators, maintenance personnel, and leadership teams.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes, tooling, machining, or aerospace manufacturing is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods on concrete surfaces.
• Frequent bending, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and repetitive movement.
• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 35 pounds independently; heavier items require assistance.
• Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment and comply with all company safety policies and procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.

Why Join RBC AeroStructures?

Our success is driven by a commitment to technical excellence, continuous improvement, and a customer-focused approach. We specialize in the design and manufacture of precision-engineered products that perform in demanding environments where quality, reliability, and performance are paramount. With operations spanning multiple countries and manufacturing facilities across the globe, RBC Bearings offers employees the opportunity to contribute to meaningful work, collaborate with industry-leading experts, and support customers in some of the world's most advanced and dynamic industries. As we continue to grow, we remain focused on fostering innovation, developing talent, and delivering exceptional value to our customers and shareholders.

RBC Bearings is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment.