Manufacturing Technician

Tenneco; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Tenneco in Blacksburg, VA is seeking a Manufacturing Technician to support operations through process improvements, equipment optimization, and hands-on problem solving on the shop floor. The role focuses on improving production efficiency, quality, safety, and environmental performance by implementing process changes and supporting maintenance programs.

The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, machine set-up and operation experience, and CAD/AutoCAD familiarity, with the ability to

Qualifications

• Associate degree preferred in Engineering Science or Machine Design.
• 4 years of experience in machine operation and set-up.
• 5 years of coating and surface finish experience (IROX Only).
• CAD Design and AutoCAD experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Implement process improvements on the shop floor.
• Possibly lead full projects from design through installation, or partial scope.
• Assist in day-to-day machine and tooling problem resolution.

Skills

Machine operation

Set-up

Problem solving

Process improvement

Interpersonal skills

Education

Associate degree in Engineering Science or Machine Design

Tools

CAD Design

AutoCAD

Job description

Job Title

Manufacturing Technician

Reports to

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Job Summary

We are seeking a Manufacturing Technician who will be responsible for supporting manufacturing operations through process improvement, equipment optimization, and technical problem‑solving. This role focuses on improving production efficiency, quality, safety, and environmental performance by implementing process changes, supporting equipment maintenance programs, and troubleshooting machine and tooling issues. The position works closely with production teams to identify opportunities for continuous improvement, document and implement process changes, provide employee training, and ensure compliance with quality, safety, and environmental standards.

The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, machine set‑up and operation experience, problem‑solving skills, and the ability to support projects from design through installation. Experience with CAD design, preventative maintenance systems, and manufacturing process improvement is preferred. This role requires a hands‑on presence in a manufacturing environment, including standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working safely around industrial equipment while adhering to all company, environmental, safety, and IATF 16949 requirements.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for implementing process improvements on the floor.
• May be responsible for entire project from design through installation, or a portion of the project.
• Also responsible for assisting in day‑to‑day machine and tooling problem resolution.

Specific Duties

• Promotes continuous improvement in environmental and safety issues by ensuring that equipment is designed, modified, or repaired to maintain and improve safety and environmental performance. Reacts immediately to safety issues as they arise.
• Follow all environmental and safety policies and procedures.
• Monitors and controls current processes and utilizes design and mechanical skills to help improve such processes.
• Identifies, implements, and evaluates process improvements (within individual capability) at the unit level and communicates these changes to the department.
• Participates in process improvement groups.
• Identifies the technical training needs of the unit and assists in the development of training programs.
• Write AR's and EARs as required.
• Documents process improvements through print changes and procedure changes.
• Trains all employees affected by process changes.
• Provides necessary technical support for plant safety and resolution of safety deficiencies within the department.
• Utilizes constraint management to maximize process output.
• Ensures equipment availability and capability through administration of the Preventative Maintenance Program.
• Provides support as requested by Supervisor.

Education

• An associate’s degree in engineering science or Machine Design is preferred.

Experience

• Four years of experience in machine operation and set‑up
• Five years of experience in coating and surface finish (IROX Only)
• CAD Design, AutoCAD® preferred.
• Demonstrated technical design and build experience.
• Proficiency in PM system administration.
• Interpersonal skills.

Physical Requirements

• Stand and walk for extended periods (8–12 hours).
• Lift up to 50 lbs. regularly.
• Work at heights using ladders or lifts.
• Manual dexterity for tools and equipment.
• Exposure to heat, cold, noise, dust, and humidity.
• Wear PPE including steel‑toe boots and safety glasses.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Equal opportunity employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities