Lean Process Engineer for Precision CNC

Actalent; New Market (VA); On-site; USD 105,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Kennametal in New Market, VA seeks a Process Engineer to develop, implement, and improve precision machining processes. You will lead Lean initiatives, optimize CNC milling/turning, and collaborate across Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain to raise throughput and reliability.

The successful candidate has a strong machining background, 5+ years in manufacturing, and experience with CAD/CAM, SAP or ERP systems, Six Sigma, and capital equipment projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Industrial/Manufacturing Engineering.
• 5+ years of manufacturing or process engineering in a machining, tooling, metal cutting, or precision manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of CNC machining processes including milling, turning, and toolmaking principles.
• Experience interpreting engineering drawings, blueprints, and knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with root cause analysis and process optimization.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and manufacturing data analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop, document, and optimize manufacturing processes for new and existing products.
• Evaluate machining methods, tooling strategies, fixturing, and equipment utilization to maximize efficiency and quality.
• Create and maintain process documentation, work instructions, routing sheets, and manufacturing standards.
• Lead Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost reduction.
• Analyze production data to identify process bottlenecks and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with CNC Programmers and Manufacturing teams to improve machining performance and productivity.
• Review engineering drawings, GD&T requirements, and customer specifications to ensure manufacturability.
• Provide technical support on complex machining operations including milling, turning, grinding, and tooling applications.
• Identify opportunities for automation and equipment upgrades and develop cost justifications for capital equipment investments.
• Lead equipment installation, commissioning, and process validation activities.
• Partner with Quality, Production, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams to ensure manufacturing objectives are achieved.
• Serve as a technical resource for manufacturing personnel and provide training as needed.
• Support customer audits, quality investigations, and corrective action initiatives.

Skills

Machining expertise

CNC

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Project management

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical/Industrial/Manufacturing Engineering

Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt

Tools

CAD/CAM systems

SAP

ERP systems

Job description

Kennametal in New Market, VA seeks a Process Engineer to develop, implement, and improve precision machining processes. You will lead Lean initiatives, optimize CNC milling/turning, and collaborate across Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain to raise throughput and reliability.

The successful candidate has a strong machining background, 5+ years in manufacturing, and experience with CAD/CAM, SAP or ERP systems, Six Sigma, and capital equipment projects.