Manufacturing Engineer (MET)

RBC Bearings; Westminster (SC); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

RBC Bearings in South Carolina is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to develop, evaluate, and continuously improve manufacturing processes, equipment, and workflows to boost safety, quality, productivity and cost efficiency.

You will collaborate with Operations, Quality, Engineering and Supply Chain to implement lean practices, lead or participate in Six Sigma projects, and drive cycle-time reductions while ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical/Industrial/Manufacturing Engineering or related field.
• Some manufacturing engineering experience preferred.
• Experience in aerospace, precision machining, or high-volume manufacturing is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Analyze manufacturing processes and implement improvements to increase efficiency and reduce waste.
• Evaluate workforce utilization, workflow, equipment placement, and facility layouts.
• Collaborate with Product Design, Engineering, and Production teams for manufacturability.
• Partner with vendors to define product specs and support procurement decisions.
• Estimate production times, labor needs, and manufacturing costs for planning.
• Provide technical support on capacity planning and scheduling.
• Use SPC and data-driven methods to forecast needs and identify improvements.
• Conduct time studies to reduce cycle times, boost throughput, and cut scrap.
• Design tooling, fixtures, and automation for continuous improvement.
• Lead or participate in Lean, Six Sigma, and cost-reduction projects.
• Develop process docs, work instructions, and manufacturing standards.
• Support quality initiatives by root-cause analysis and corrective actions.

Skills

Manufacturing processes

Statistical analysis

Lean manufacturing

Problem solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Industrial/Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Position Summary

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, evaluating, and continuously improving manufacturing processes to enhance safety, quality, productivity, and cost efficiency. This role applies engineering principles and technical expertise to optimize production methods, equipment, tooling, and workflow while supporting a lean manufacturing environment. The Manufacturing Engineer collaborates closely with Operations, Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams to ensure efficient and effective manufacturing processes that meet business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze manufacturing processes and implement improvements to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize production performance.
• Evaluate workforce utilization, workflow, equipment placement, and facility layouts to maximize productivity and operational effectiveness.
• Collaborate with Product Design, Engineering, and Production teams to ensure manufacturability and efficient production methods.
• Partner with vendors and suppliers to define product specifications, evaluate equipment and materials, and support procurement decisions.
• Estimate production times, labor requirements, equipment needs, and manufacturing costs to support strategic planning and decision-making.
• Provide technical support and recommendations regarding manufacturing capabilities, capacity planning, and production scheduling.
• Utilize statistical analysis and data-driven methodologies to forecast manufacturing requirements and identify improvement opportunities.
• Conduct time studies and analyze production data to drive cycle-time reductions, increase throughput, and reduce scrap.
• Design and implement tooling, fixtures, machinery, and automation solutions to support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Lead or participate in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and cost-reduction projects.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, work instructions, process flows, and manufacturing standards.
• Support quality initiatives by identifying root causes, implementing corrective actions, and driving process consistency.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications & Skills

Technical Requirements

• Proficiency in CAD software including SolidWorks, and AutoCAD.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, machining, tooling design, assembly methods, and process optimization.
• Working knowledge of blueprint reading, GD&T, metallurgy, product testing, and quality systems.
• Experience with Statistical Process Control (SPC) and process improvement methodologies.
• Knowledge of automation systems, pneumatics, process controls, and lean manufacturing principles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions.
• Experience with cost analysis, facility layout planning, project management, and budget oversight preferred.

Professional Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional, team-oriented environment.
• Results-driven mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods on concrete surfaces.
• Ability to bend, kneel, squat, crouch, twist, and perform repetitive movements as required.
• Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 35 pounds independently; heavier objects require team lift or mechanical assistance.
• Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment while adhering to all company safety policies and procedures.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Engineering Technology or Manufacturing Engineering required
• Some manufacturing engineering experience preferred.
• Experience in aerospace, precision machining, or high-volume manufacturing environments is a plus.

Why Join Us?

Our success is driven by a commitment to technical excellence, continuous improvement, and a customer-focused approach. We specialize in the design and manufacture of precision-engineered products that perform in demanding environments where quality, reliability, and performance are paramount.

With operations spanning multiple countries and manufacturing facilities across the globe, RBC Bearings offers employees the opportunity to contribute to meaningful work, collaborate with industry-leading experts, and support customers in some of the world's most advanced and dynamic industries. As we continue to grow, we remain focused on fostering innovation, developing talent, and delivering exceptional value to our customers and shareholders.

RBC Bearings is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment.