Manufacturing Engineer

Wabtec; Salem (VA); On-site; USD 68,900 - 98,200; Full time

Job summary

Wabtec seeks an Automation Engineer to lead development and implementation of advanced manufacturing techniques and automation solutions supporting DFМ. You will design and test complex electro‑mechanical systems, collaborating with cross‑functional teams to improve quality, reduce costs, and boost efficiency.

The role requires 7+ years in industrial manufacturing, hands-on tooling and automation experience, and proficiency with SolidWorks and metrology.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years of industrial manufacturing experience.
• 4+ years designing manufacturing tooling and equipment.
• Hands-on experience in machining, welding, assembly, testing, or molding.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, databases, and 3D design tools (SolidWorks preferred).
• Experience integrating automation components such as servos, sensors, and motion systems.
• Experience with precision measurement, metrology, and dimensional analysis.
• Strong problem solver who can communicate technical concepts clearly.
• Able to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing deadlines.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to work independently.
• Comfortable with ambiguity and complexity.
• Willing to travel as needed.
• Hands-on experience building prototypes, tooling, or automated systems.
• Expertise in CNC machining, metalworking, assembly, or automation.

Responsibilities

• Improve manufacturing processes, work instructions, and tooling designs
• Integrate and support automation equipment and technologies
• Conduct time studies and implement cost and efficiency improvements
• Manage equipment and capital projects within budget and timelines
• Collaborate with teams to resolve issues and enhance manufacturing performance
• Support supplier selection, feasibility studies, and project justifications
• Apply Lean principles and drive continuous improvement
• Ensure safety, quality, and compliance in all processes

Skills

CNC machining

Automation systems

PLC programming

Lean manufacturing

SolidWorks

Metrology

Problem solving

Technical communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CAD tools

Job description

Who will you be working with?

You will be part of the Manufacturing Engineering team, working closely with Automation, Manufacturing Operations, and Product Engineering teams. This role collaborates across functions to improve processes, integrate new technologies, and support high‑quality, efficient manufacturing operations.

How will you make a difference?

As an Automation Engineer, you will lead the development and implementation of advanced manufacturing techniques and automation solutions to support Design for Manufacturing (DFM). You will research, design, build, and test complex electro‑mechanical systems while partnering with cross‑functional teams to improve quality, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency. This role plays a key part in driving innovation, process optimization, and continuous improvement across manufacturing operations.

What do we want to know about you?

• Do you have a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field?
• Do you have at least 7 years of industrial manufacturing experience?
• Do you have 4+ years of experience designing manufacturing tooling and equipment?
• Do you have hands‑on experience in manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, assembly, testing, or molding?
• Are you proficient in Microsoft Office, databases, and 3D design tools (SolidWorks preferred)?
• Do you have experience integrating automation components such as servos, sensors, and motion systems?
• Are you experienced with precision measurement, metrology, and dimensional analysis?
• Are you a strong problem solver who can communicate technical concepts clearly?
• Can you manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing deadlines?
• Are you highly organized, detail‑oriented, and able to work independently?
• Are you comfortable working in environments with ambiguity and complexity?
• Are you able to travel as needed for the role?
• Do you have hands‑on experience building prototypes, tooling, or automated systems?
• Do you have expertise in areas such as CNC machining, metalworking, assembly, or automation?
• Do you have experience with PLC programming or LabVIEW?
• Do you have knowledge of industrial electrical/electronic systems and automation controls?
• Are you familiar with Lean manufacturing tools such as 5S, value stream mapping, and control plans?

What will your typical day look like?

• Improve manufacturing processes, work instructions, and tooling designs
• Integrate and support automation equipment and technologies
• Conduct time studies and implement cost and efficiency improvements
• Manage equipment and capital projects within budget and timelines
• Collaborate with teams to resolve issues and enhance manufacturing performance
• Support supplier selection, feasibility studies, and project justifications
• Apply Lean principles and drive continuous improvement initiatives
• Ensure safety, quality, and compliance in all processes

You may also be asked to perform other duties outside of your function or trade, for which adequate training will be provided if necessary.

The base pay range for this role is $68,900–$98,200. The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands, and work location. More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, is available at mywabtecbenefits.com.

Wabtec will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the U.S. for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable) and fitness for duty test (as applicable).

What could you accomplish in a place that puts People First?

At Wabtec, it’s not just about a job - it’s about the impact you make. When our people come together, we’re expanding the possible by continuously improving what we do and how we do it - for our clients and each other.

If you’re ready to revolutionize how the world moves for future generations, Wabtec is the place for you.

Our culture powers us and the possibilities.

We believe the best ideas come from a mix of experiences and backgrounds. At Wabtec, we strive every day to create a place where everyone belongs. We’re building a culture where leadership, inclusion, and your unique perspective fuel progress.

We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome talent of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including race, gender, age, disability, veteran status and more.

Need accommodation? Just let us know - we’ve got you.