Description
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 costsEvaluate 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
Job Qualifications / Experience and Technical Skills
Education & Experience
- 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.