Manufacturing Design Engineer II

Portland Forge; Lebanon (KY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading forging provider in Lebanon, Kentucky, is seeking a Manufacturing Design Engineer to enhance production efficiency and product quality. This mid-level role involves designing tooling, optimizing processes, and collaborating across teams. Candidates must possess at least 3 years of manufacturing experience and a relevant degree. The role offers an opportunity to contribute significantly to operational performance in an innovative manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in manufacturing, forging experience preferred.
• Familiarity with CAD software and manufacturing tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes and workflows.
• Lead manufacturing projects, including new product introductions.
• Create and update work instructions and standard operating procedures.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Collaboration

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

CAD software (PTC Creo, Anvil)

ERP/MRP systems

Job description

Overview

Portland Forge is dedicated to being the premier forging provider for our world-class customers by strengthening long term partnerships through engineered solutions, quality, diversified manufacturing, and profitable growth. Portland Forge brings more than one hundred years of forging industry leadership to each and every application. Our Lebanon Operation specializes in closed-die forgings using screw and mechanical presses which give us the ability to meet a wide range of size and geometry requirements for parts made of carbon and stainless steel and various high temperature and corrosion-resistant alloys. Our state-of-the-art production systems provide high throughput and fast changeovers to meet today’s supply chain demands.

Job Summary

The Manufacturing Design Engineer plays a critical role in improving production efficiency and product quality within the manufacturing process through development of high quality product, tooling, and processes applying industry best practices. This mid-level position is responsible for analyzing, developing, and implementing efficient forging designs and tooling to optimize operational performance. The role requires a strong understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and collaboration across multiple teams to ensure continuous improvement and compliance with industry standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Product and Tooling Design
  • Develop and optimize manufacturing processes and workflows for new and existing products.
  • Design and implement tooling, fixtures, and equipment to support efficient production.
  • Collaborate with product design teams to ensure manufacturability (DFM/DFA principles).
  • Conduct time studies, line balancing, and process simulations to enhance productivity.
  • Evaluate and improve manufacturing processes to increase efficiency, reduce costs, maintain and/or improve product quality, and improve company KPI performance.
  • Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for production challenges.
  • Collaborate with maintenance and engineering teams to maintain and repair manufacturing equipment as well as improve overall tooling design effectiveness.
• Project and Performance Management
  • Lead manufacturing projects, including new product introductions, tooling design, and equipment upgrades.
  • Develop project plans, timelines, and budgets, ensuring milestones are met.
  • Analyze production metrics and implement quality control measures.
  • Provide technical support to production teams for troubleshooting equipment and process issues.
• Training and Documentation
  • Create and update work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and process documentation.
  • Ensure compliance with safety regulations and industry standards (e.g., ISO, OSHA).
  • Train production staff on new processes, tools, and technologies.
  • Promote a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related engineering or science field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in manufacturing, forging experience preferred.
• Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., PTC Creo, Anvil) and manufacturing tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
• Knowledge of ERP/MRP systems is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry product (up to 50 lbs).
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing facility with exposure to high temperatures.
• Ability to stand, kneel, or crouch as needed.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with carbon and stainless steel, nickel alloys, and titanium forgings.
• Understanding of metallurgical and engineering principles.
• Familiarity with NDT methods of inspection (e.g., ultrasonic, penetrant inspection).
• Proficiency in computer-based documentation and reporting tools.
• Industrial or manufacturing setting with exposure to noise and varying temperatures.
• Occasional travel as required.

Seniority level

• Associate

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Manufacturing

Industries

• Manufacturing