Manufacturing Engineer

FUTEK; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

FUTEK in Irvine, CA is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to develop, optimize, and sustain efficient production processes. You will lead time studies, implement process improvements, and support ISO compliance while collaborating with design and maintenance teams to ensure product quality and repeatable results.

The role requires hands-on mentoring of operators, strong CAD/CAM proficiency, GD&T knowledge, and the ability to manage multiple projects from concept to implementation in a fast-paced

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering or equivalent.
• 3–5 years of relevant experience or internships/co-ops preferred.
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software and GD&T knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Develop and improve manufacturing methods using product design, materials, tooling, and equipment capabilities.
• Research and evaluate processes through experiments and observations.
• Support product and tooling designs with engineering input.

Skills

Communication

Detail-oriented

Problem solving

Multi-project management

GD&T knowledge

Team collaboration

Education

Mechanical Engineering degree

Tools

CAD/CAM software (Autodesk Inventor, SolidWorks, MasterCAM)

Job description

FUTEK is a leading manufacturer of precision sensor technology, specializing in load cells, torque sensors, and measurement solutions used across industries like aerospace, medical, robotics, and manufacturing. Our mission is to enable innovation through highly accurate measurement solutions that power real-world applications. At FUTEK, we combine engineering excellence with a collaborative, growth-oriented culture—giving employees the opportunity to make a tangible impact while continuing to develop their skills.

Job Summary

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and sustaining efficient manufacturing processes to ensure high-quality production. This role supports continuous improvement through time studies, process optimization, and preventive maintenance planning for production equipment. The engineer also collaborates on product and tooling enhancements, documents procedures, and provides hands-on training to leads and operators to maintain process consistency and operational excellence.

Essential Job Functions

• Process Development: Aid in the development and enhancement of manufacturing methods by applying knowledge of product design, materials, fabrication processes, and production equipment capabilities.
• Research and Evaluation: Evaluate and refine manufacturing processes by conducting research programs, designing experiments, and gathering observations from operators.
• Design Support: Assist in the development of new engineering plans and product designs.
• Material and Equipment Analysis: Support the investigation, analysis, and implementation of new materials, equipment, and manufacturing practices.
• Engineering Computations: Perform or assist with engineering computations, estimates, surveys, and statistical analysis.
• Testing and Validation: Conduct or support equipment and material test studies to validate manufacturing processes.
• Process and Continuous Improvement: Assist with time studies, tooling enhancements, operator training, and workflow optimization to improve manufacturing efficiency and consistency.
• ISO Compliance: Support FUTEK’s ISO objectives through monthly reviews of manufacturing processes. Work to understand and align with annual ISO forecasts and performance goals.
• Equipment Maintenance: Ensure equipment functionality by coordinating maintenance and repair services, following manufacturer instructions, and requesting special service when necessary.
• Project Execution: Complete design and development projects by training and guiding technicians.
• Continuous Learning: Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing industry publications, and participating in professional societies.
• Work Ownership: Works independently with minimal supervision, managing day-to-day engineering tasks, troubleshooting issues, and driving continuous improvement initiatives from concept to implementation.

Qualifications

• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities, including the ability to present technical information effectively.
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software (e.g., Autodesk Inventor, SolidWorks, MasterCAM, or equivalent).
• Self-motivated with the ability to support multiple projects simultaneously.
• High attention to detail and knowledge of manufacturing processes, tooling and production equipment.
• Strong understanding of GD&T and ability to interpret technical drawings.
• Problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot manufacturing challenges.
• Effective interdepartmental collaboration using emotional intelligence and active listening.
• Open to feedback, capable of teaching and mentoring operators.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• 3-5 years of relevant experience, including internships or co-op experience.
• Experience with metrology tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers) and basic lab equipment preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of various manufacturing processes, including injection molding, stamping, additive manufacturing, sheet metal, extrusion, welding, and castings.
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification
• Advanced understanding of materials and tooling design

Supervisory Responsibility

This position does not have any supervisory responsibilities.

• Office Setting: Primarily conducted in an office setting with standard office machinery.
• Production Area: Frequent visits to the production area, which may involve exposure to airborne particles, mild fumes, moving mechanical parts, and vibration. Noise levels are moderate in the production area.

Physical Demands

• Attendance: Regular, predictable attendance and punctuality are required.
• Physical Activity: Prolonged periods of sitting, occasional standing, stooping, bending, reaching, and repetitive hand movements. Ability to lift objects up to 30 lbs. routinely and occasionally lift heavier objects with assistance.
• Dexterity: Eye-hand coordination and dexterity sufficient for hand soldering and wire routing.
• Vision and Hearing: Normal range of hearing and vision, including color vision.
• Mobility: Ability to traverse two flights of stairs and walk moderate to long distances due to parking availability and work location.
• Mental Adaptability: Must be mentally adaptable and flexible in dealing with various people and situations, able to analyze and resolve interpersonal conflicts positively and professionally. Emotional stability and personal maturity are important attributes.
• Work Hours: May be required to work outside of normal business hours, including weekends and holidays.

Other Duties

This job description is not exhaustive and may be subject to change at any time with or without notice. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may vary.

Equal Opportunity Statement

FUTEK is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We participate in E-Verify. Final candidates may be required to successfully complete a background check and drug screening, where permitted by applicable law.