Manufacturing Engineer

Dane Manufacturing Company; Waunakee (WI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Dane Manufacturing Company is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to develop and optimize metal fabrication processes, translating drawings into efficient production methods. You will drive quality, throughput, cost, and safety improvements while working with production, quality, sales, and supply chain to ensure manufacturability.

The role covers laser cutting, punching, forming, welding, and finishing, with responsibility for tooling design, NPI launches, and continuous improvement using Lean

Qualifications

• B.S./B.E. in manufacturing-related field or equivalent experience.
• 3–5+ years in a production environment.
• Experience with sheet metal processes preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and document manufacturing processes for laser cutting, punching, forming, welding, and finishing.
• Create routings, work instructions, and standard work to improve repeatability.
• Lead NPI activities including first article builds and validation.
• Identify and execute Lean improvements to reduce scrap and bottlenecks.
• Provide technical guidance to operators and supervisors on process issues.
• Support production planning with accurate process data.
• Collaborate with quality on CAPA and inspection plans.
• Maintain ERP/MRP data related to BOMs and routings.

Skills

Process development

Lean manufacturing

Root cause analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

GD&T

Blueprint reading

ERP/MRP

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Position Summary:The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and sustaining manufacturing processes in a metal fabrication environment. This role translates drawings and specifications into efficient, repeatable production methods while driving improvements in quality, throughput, cost, and safety. The Manufacturing Engineer works cross-functionally with production, quality, sales, and supply chain to ensure manufacturability and operational excellence.Key ResponsibilitiesProcess Development & OptimizationDevelop and document manufacturing processes for laser cutting, punching, forming, welding, and finishing.Create and maintain routings, work instructions, and standard work.Optimize cycle times, material utilization, and labor efficiency.Design and implement tooling, fixtures, and jigs to improve repeatability and productivity.New Product Introduction (NPI)Review customer prints, CAD/Solidworks models, and specifications for manufacturability.Collaborate with sales and to support accurate quoting (labor, routing, and process assumptions).Lead production launch activities, including first article builds and validation.Continuous ImprovementIdentify and execute process improvement initiatives using Lean manufacturing principles.Reduce scrap, rework, and bottlenecks.Lead or support root cause analysis (RCA) or problem-solving activities.Production SupportTroubleshoot manufacturing issues on the shop floor (forming issues, weld distortion, tolerance challenges, etc.).Provide technical guidance to operators, programmers, and supervisors.Support scheduling and production planning with accurate process data.Quality & ComplianceEnsure processes meet customer specifications and internal quality standards.Support corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).Collaborate with Quality on inspection methods and control plans.Programming & Systems (as applicable)Develop or support programming for laser, punch, and press brake operations.Maintain accurate ERP/MRP system data (BOMs, routings, labor standards).Support integration of automation and digital manufacturing tools.Education & ExperienceBachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).3–5+ years of experience in a production environment.Experience with sheet metal processes strongly preferred.Technical SkillsStrong understanding of:Laser cutting, punch, press brake forming, and welding processesGD&T and blueprint readingTooling and fixturing designExperience with software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD).Familiarity with programming software for fabrication equipment.Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems.Process ImprovementExperience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis capability.Core CompetenciesProactively identifies inefficiencies and implements measurable improvementsStrong floor presence; collaborates effectively with operatorsBalances speed, cost, and quality in decision-makingTranslates complex engineering concepts into practical shop solutionsData-driven; uses metrics to guide improvementsWork EnvironmentCombination of office and shop floor exposureRegular interaction with fabrication equipment and production teamsPPE required in manufacturing areas