Manufacturing Engineer - Elgin, IL

MissionHires; Elgin (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

MissionHires is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer in Elgin, IL, to enhance CNC machining and assembly processes. This hands-on role includes developing CNC programs and improving manufacturing workflows while leading Lean initiatives. The ideal candidate will have relevant engineering education and proven CAD/CAM experience.

Compensation ranges from $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in relevant engineering field or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 3 years of CAD/CAM experience.
• Strong CNC programming experience required.
• 3-5 years of precision machining/CNC machine assembly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support CNC machining and CNC assembly operations.
• Develop and optimize CNC programs, tooling, and fixtures.
• Lead Lean initiatives including 5S and DMAIC.
• Drive cost reduction and production improvement initiatives.

Skills

CAD/CAM experience

CNC programming

Lean/Six Sigma methods

Project management

Manufacturing processes

Excellent communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering Technology

Tools

Mastercam

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

SmartCam

ERP systems

Job description

MissionHires is recruiting a hands-on Manufacturing Engineer for our client in Elgin, IL to support CNC machining operations and CNC lathe assembly. The role focuses on optimizing CNC programs, tooling, fixtures, and routings; leading Lean/continuous improvement (5S, Standard Work, DMAIC); standardizing processes to ISO 9001; and driving measurable gains in quality, throughput, and cost. Reports to the Operations Manager.

Compensation: $70,000-$100,000 DOE. No visa sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Support daily CNC machining and CNC machine assembly operations
• Develop and optimize CNC programs, routings, tooling, and fixtures
• Improve manufacturing processes to enhance quality, efficiency, and cost
• Lead Lean initiatives including 5S, Standard Work, DMAIC, and material flow improvements
• Analyze cycle times, workflows, and equipment layout to increase throughput
• Drive cost reduction and production improvement initiatives
• Coordinate engineering changes with engineering, assembly, and quality teams
• Support new product introductions from Product Engineering to Manufacturing
• Develop and maintain manufacturing documentation aligned with ISO 9001
• Train and guide technicians on improved processes and best practices
• Maintain accurate manufacturing data in ERP systems

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering Technology (related degree and/or equivalent experience considered)
• Minimum 3 years of CAD/CAM experience (e.g., Mastercam, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, SmartCam or similar)
• Strong CNC programming experience
• 3-5 years of experience in precision machining and/or CNC machine assembly (preferred)
• Experience leading process improvement initiatives using Lean/Six Sigma methods
• Project management capability to drive initiatives to completion
• ERP experience (JD Edwards a plus)
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and lean methodologies
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to influence and lead in a production environment
• Six Sigma certification or training (preferred)