CNC Process Technician / Engineer
Job DescriptionJob Description
Overview
The Process Manufacturing Engineer drives efficient manufacturing and continuous improvement within a precision CNC machining environment. Serving as the first line of support, the Process Manufacturing Engineer proactively identifies and resolves CNC machining and automation issues, increases production efficiency, enhances product quality, and facilitates successful new product introductions (NPIs).
The role requires close collaboration across multiple departments—engineering, quality, production, and sales—to oversee manufacturing processes from quotation to finished product. Core responsibilities encompass developing comprehensive manufacturing workflows, refining inspection and quality-control methods, analyzing and improving process capabilities, and designing specialized fixtures and tooling. Candidates should have significant technical experience combined with hands-on troubleshooting skills, proficiency in CAD modeling, GD&T application, and a firm grasp of Lean and manufacturing best practices.
Responsibilities
- Manufacturing Quoting and Planning: Responsible for processing parts from start to finish, including quoting, developing manufacturing methods, ensuring quality, verifying delivery, and analyzing the efficiency of all involved processes.
- CAD Analysis and Fixturing: Work closely with programmers and machinists to develop efficient, repeatable manufacturing plans. Utilize CAD software to analyze customer designs, provide feedback, and develop in-house fixture designs.
- Manufacturing Documentation: Review and approve manufacturing drawings for new or revised product designs, and manage the control and release of engineering documentation.
- Tooling and Fixturing Design: Guide the specification and design of special tooling, fixturing, and gauging while considering budgetary constraints, efficiency, ease of use, standardization, and ergonomics.
- Manufacturing Troubleshooting and Improvement: Provide frontline support for manufacturing operations through direct hands-on troubleshooting and implement machine/process improvements on existing equipment.
- Inspection and Quality Control: Coordinate with Engineering and Quality Managers to define inspection plans and respond to systematic manufacturing issues. Analyze process capability data to justify adjustments in inspection frequency, aiming to minimize non-conformance and quality-control burden.
- Continuous Improvement and Lean Manufacturing: Own the sustainment of existing products and processes, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and support Lean Manufacturing efforts. Provide Production teams resources needed to maintain workspaces aligned with 5S principles.
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Training: Become intimately familiar with company products and processes to provide technical support, training, and guidance to Engineering and Production teams. Oversee the creation of SOPs and work instructions to standardize operations and assist staff training.
- Customer Interface and Communication: Digest customer requirements and feedback to create manufacturing production plans that balance standard practices with customer satisfaction. Occasionally interface directly with customers to ensure accurate technical communication.
- Vendor Management: Communicate with vendors to maintain delivery of quality materials and services.
- Equipment Lifecycle and Maintenance: Collaborate with management to understand equipment lifecycles and plan for equipment obsolescence. Engage with the Maintenance Manager to establish and maintain preventative maintenance schedules.
Requirements
- Associate’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering Technology, Applied Sciences, or related technical field.
- Minimum of 3 years experience in metalworking or CNC machining manufacturing environments.
- Strong technical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and confidence in hands-on troubleshooting on the production floor.
- Ability to independently manage tasks, make logical, data-driven decisions, and perform duties with minimal supervision.
- Proficient in interpreting technical drawings and applying GD&T standards per ASME Y14.5.
- Functional knowledge of CAD modeling/drafting with SolidWorks.
- Familiarity with standard measurement tools including calipers, micrometers, and indicators.
- Ability and willingness to regularly work approximately 45 hours per week, with occasional extended hours to meet critical objectives.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor of Science degree in an engineering discipline
- Lean certification or experience
- Experience with CMM (coordinate measuring machine) inspection
Benefits Include:
- Salary $60,000 - $85,000 annually based on experience
- Group Medical, Dental, Vision & Life
- Short and Long-Term Coverage