Manufacturing Engineer II

Ascentec Engineering, LLC; Tualatin (OR); On-site; USD 80,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

401(k) retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Ascentec Engineering, LLC is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer II in Tualatin, Oregon. This role involves managing manufacturing processes, leading NPI projects, and providing technical guidance. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and 3-5 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, especially with CNC programming. The position offers a salary range of $80,000 - $105,000 DOE, comprehensive benefits, and a performance bonus program.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of manufacturing engineering experience in precision machining.
• Demonstrated experience leading NPI projects from design through production.
• Intermediate to Advanced Machining Knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement manufacturing processes for components and assemblies.
• Lead NPI projects from concept through full production.
• Optimize existing processes to improve cycle time and cost-effectiveness.

Skills

Process optimization

Project management

Statistical methods

CNC programming

Lean Manufacturing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Epicor ERP

Job description

Description

Ascentec Engineering is hiring a Manufacturing Engineer II to serve as an experienced technical contributor responsible for independently managing manufacturing processes, leading moderate-complexity NPI projects, and providing technical guidance to junior engineers. This role demonstrates proven capability in process optimization, cost reduction initiatives, and cross-functional collaboration while developing toward advanced technical leadership and strategic process development. The position requires solid hands‑on machining knowledge, the ability to analyze engineering drawings for manufacturability, and demonstrated competence in project management.

Job Responsibilities

Manufacturing Process Ownership & Optimization

Process Development & Refinement

• Independently develop and implement manufacturing processes for moderate‑complexity components and assemblies
• Lead NPI projects from concept through full production transition with minimal oversight
• Optimize existing processes to improve cycle time, yield, and cost‑effectiveness
• Design and validate manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and work‑holding solutions
• Conduct time studies and establish standard work documentation for production operations

Advanced Problem‑Solving

• Lead root cause analysis investigations for quality escapes and process failures
• Develop and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) with measurable effectiveness
• Apply statistical methods (DOE, capability studies) to optimize process parameters
• Troubleshoot complex machining issues involving multi‑axis operations, tight tolerances, and difficult materials
• Identify and eliminate sources of variation in manufacturing processes

Technical Documentation

• Create comprehensive work instructions, process maps, and control plans
• Develop and maintain process FMEA documentation
• Establish process validation protocols and acceptance criteria
• Document lessons learned and contribute to knowledge base development

Manufacturing Cost Management & Value Engineering

Cost Estimation & Analysis

• Develop detailed manufacturing cost estimates for new products and process changes
• Conduct make‑vs‑buy analysis with supporting financial justification
• Identify cost reduction opportunities through process improvement and design optimization
• Track and report cost savings achieved through engineering initiative

Value Engineering Leadership

• Collaborate with design engineering to optimize product manufacturability
• Propose alternative materials, processes, or manufacturing approaches to reduce costs
• Evaluate emerging manufacturing technologies for potential cost or quality benefits
• Balance cost objectives with quality, delivery, and performance requirements

Technical Mentorship & Team Development

Peer & Junior Engineer Support

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to Manufacturing Engineer I team members
• Review and approve work instructions and process documentation prepared by junior engineers
• Serve as subject matter expert for specific manufacturing processes or technologies
• Lead knowledge‑sharing sessions on advanced manufacturing techniques

Training Development

• Develop and deliver training materials for production personnel on new processes
• Create visual aids, training videos, and quick‑reference guides
• Assess training effectiveness and implement improvements

Project Management & Cross‑Functional Leadership

NPI Project Leadership

• Manage NPI projects involving 3‑5 concurrent work streams with interdependencies
• Develop project plans with clear milestones, resource requirements, and success criteria
• Coordinate cross‑functional activities across engineering, quality, supply chain, and production
• Proactively identify and mitigate project risks
• Report project status to stakeholders with data‑driven analysis

Stakeholder Management

• Interface with suppliers on technical process development and problem resolution
• Support customer technical reviews and process qualification activities (with PM coordination)
• Collaborate with quality engineering on inspection methods and acceptance criteria
• Partner with production supervision to implement process improvements

Quality Systems & Continuous Improvement

Quality System Contribution

• Participate in internal and external quality audits as process owner
• Lead closure of audit findings related to manufacturing processes
• Ensure processes comply with ISO9001, AS9100, and customer‑specific requirements
• Maintain process validation and control documentation per quality system requirements

Advanced Quality Tools

• Apply SPC techniques to monitor process capability and stability
• Conduct measurement system analysis (GR&R) studies
• Implement poka‑yoke (error‑proofing) solutions
• Develop process control plans with appropriate reaction plans

Continuous Improvement Leadership

• Lead Lean Six Sigma projects targeting specific operational metrics
• Facilitate kaizen events and value stream mapping activities
• Implement 5S workplace organization initiatives
• Track and report improvement project results with validated savings

Education & Experience

Job Qualifications / Experience and Technical Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Industrial Engineering
• 3‑5 years of manufacturing engineering experience in precision machining environment
• Demonstrated experience leading NPI projects from design through production
• Experience with CNC programming, setup, troubleshooting, and process optimization

Technical Expertise

• Intermediate to Advanced Machining Knowledge: Solid understanding of CNC machining operations, multi‑axis programming, tooling selection, feeds/speeds optimization, and setup procedures
• Manufacturing Cost Estimation: Ability to analyze engineering drawings and develop accurate manufacturing cost estimates with cycle time analysis
• ERP Systems: Experience with Epicor ERP or similar manufacturing systems for process planning, costing, and project management
• Quality Systems Knowledge: Familiarity with ISO9001 and AS9100 standards, statistical process control, and CAPA methodologies
• Process Improvement: Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt certification preferred)

Leadership & Communication

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects independently with minimal supervision
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities with structured approach to root cause analysis
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical and non‑technical audiences
• Demonstrated ability to mentor junior engineers and contribute to team development
• Effective collaboration skills with cross‑functional teams including design, quality, and production

Personal Qualifications

• Self‑starter / Self‑motivated / Flexible / Detail oriented
• Reliable and dependable
• Positive customer‑focused attitude
• Enjoy fast‑paced and rapidly changing environment
• Honest with good integrity
• Professional demeanor and respectful to people in all situations
• Flexible and willing to help others as needs and tasks change often
• Team player

Working Conditions

• Position requires significant time on the production floor conducting process analysis, troubleshooting, and team collaboration
• Office‑based work for project management, cost analysis, documentation, and meetings
• Occasional travel to supplier facilities or customer sites (<10% annually)
• May require flexibility for project deadlines and production support requirements
• Physical requirements include walking, standing, and lifting up to 35 lbs in manufacturing environment

Compensation / Benefits

• Salary range: $80,000 - $105,000 DOE with performance‑based annual review
• Performance bonus program based on individual and company performance metrics
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with generous company matching contribution
• Professional development support including certification reimbursement and conference attendance
• Paid time off / Paid holidays
• Continuing education opportunities and tuition reimbursement program

Other Requirements

Applicant must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check prior to employment.

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Ascentec Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Ascentec Engineering is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.