Description
Ascentec Engineering is hiring a Manufacturing Engineer III to serve as the senior technical authority for complex manufacturing processes, combining deep machining expertise with advanced engineering leadership. This role addresses critical organizational needs for manufacturing cost estimation, process optimization, and technical mentorship while driving strategic manufacturing initiatives. The position requires extensive hands-on machining knowledge, the ability to analyze complex engineering drawings for manufacturability, and proven leadership in cross-functional project management.
This Manufacturing Engineer III position represents a critical leadership role in our manufacturing organization, offering significant opportunities for professional growth, technical innovation, and strategic impact. The successful candidate will join a dynamic team committed to manufacturing excellence, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction.
- Portfolio of manufacturing projects and cost estimation examples preferred
- References from previous supervisors and cross-functional team members required
This position is onsite (not remote / not hybrid) and not eligible for Visa sponsorship or transfer of Visa sponsorship.
Requirements
ADVANCED MACHINING EXPERTISE & PROCESS DEVELOPMENT
Blueprint Analysis & Manufacturing Strategy :
Analyze complex multi-operation engineering drawings to determine optimal machining sequences, operation breakdown, and manufacturing flowEvaluate geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) requirements to establish critical machining parameters and quality control pointsAssess part geometry for manufacturability and provide design feedback to optimize production efficiency and cost-effectivenessDetermine comprehensive fixturing strategies, work holding solutions, and multi-setup coordination for complex precision componentsEvaluate material properties, heat treatment requirements, and their impact on machining parameters, tool selection, and process stabilityCNC Programming Support & Production Planning :
Assist in technical feedback to our CAM programing team for complex multi-axis operations including 4th and 5th axis positioning and simultaneous machiningSupport CAM and Machinist teams in selection of optimal cutting tools, speeds, feeds, and cutting parameters based on material characteristics, part geometry, and tolerance requirementsDesign custom tooling solutions and specialized work holding for unique manufacturing challengesCalculate accurate cycle times including setup, machining, in-process inspection, and changeover operations with ±5% accuracyTroubleshoot complex machining issues including vibration analysis, tool wear optimization, dimensional accuracy, and surface finish problemsExtensive root cause analysis utilization for prevent and full containment of complex technical issues related to machine repeatability and volume.Capacity Planning & Production Optimization :
Estimate machine utilization requirements and capacity constraints for new product introductionsIdentify production bottlenecks and develop comprehensive solutions to optimize manufacturing flowRecommend capital equipment investments based on capability gap analysis and volume projectionsDevelop detailed work instructions, setup sheets, and quality control procedures for production implementationLead manufacturing readiness reviews ensuring seamless transition from prototype to productionMANUFACTURING COST ESTIMATION & QUOTING EXCELLENCE
Comprehensive Cost Analysis :
Perform detailed manufacturing cost estimation including material, labor, overhead, tooling, and quality inspection costsDevelop accurate operation-by-operation cycle time estimates from raw material receipt through finished goods deliveryCreate comprehensive manufacturing plans with setup times, run times, quality checkpoints, and yield considerationsConduct make-vs-buy analysis for complex components considering core competencies, capacity constraints, and strategic objectivesProvide technical risk assessment and manufacturability analysis for customer quotationsQuote Development & Customer Interface :
Collaborate with R&D Project Managers to develop technically sound and commercially competitive proposalsInterface with estimation teams to provide manufacturing expertise for complex multi-operation componentsSupport rapid quote turnaround requirements (3-5 days) through efficient process assessment and standardized costing modelsDevelop alternative manufacturing approaches and cost reduction opportunities for competitive positioningCreate technical presentations and process flow documentation for customer review and approvalValue Engineering & Cost Optimization :
Identify cost reduction opportunities through process optimization, design modifications, and manufacturing method improvementsDevelop standard cost models and estimation templates for product families to streamline future quotingPerform tolerance analysis and process capability studies to optimize manufacturing efficiencyEvaluate emerging manufacturing technologies for cost reduction and competitive advantage opportunitiesCreate comprehensive cost-benefit analyses for process improvements and capital equipment investmentsTECHNICAL LEADERSHIP & MENTORSHIP
Team Development & Knowledge Transfer :
Mentor Manufacturing Engineers I & II in advanced machining concepts, process optimization, and problem-solving methodologiesDevelop and deliver structured training covering GD&T interpretation, cost estimation, and project managementCreate technical documentation including manufacturing best practices, troubleshooting guides, and lessons learned databasesEstablish technical review processes for junior engineers' project deliverables and manufacturing recommendationsFacilitate knowledge sharing sessions and cross-functional learning opportunitiesADVANCED PROJECT MANAGEMENT & LEADERSHIP
Complex NPI Management :
Lead new product introductions for high-complexity, tight-tolerance components requiring advanced manufacturing processesManage multi-phase projects incorporating prototype development, pilot production, process validation, and production rampCoordinate with external suppliers, customer engineering teams, and regulatory bodies for project executionDevelop comprehensive project schedules integrating manufacturing readiness, quality validation, supply chain coordination, and delivery commitmentsInterface directly with customer engineering teams for technical reviews, requirement clarification, and issue resolutionCross-Functional Team Leadership :
Lead multidisciplinary project teams including R&D, Quality Assurance, Production Operations, Supply Chain, and external partnersFacilitate design reviews with authority to approve / reject designs based on comprehensive manufacturability assessmentCoordinate with Product Development Engineers on technical feasibility, process optimization, and manufacturing risk mitigationManage resource allocation and priority setting across multiple concurrent projects with competing demandsEstablish communication protocols, reporting structures, and escalation procedures for complex, long-duration programsE. STRATEGIC PROCESS DEVELOPMENT & INNOVATION
Manufacturing Strategy & Technology Integration :
Develop long-term manufacturing strategies aligned with business growth objectives, market demands, and competitive positioningEvaluate emerging manufacturing technologies (automation, Industry 4.0, advanced materials) for competitive advantageCreate manufacturing capability roadmaps identifying technology gaps, development priorities, and investment requirementsDesign scalable manufacturing processes accommodating volume fluctuations, product mix changes, and market dynamicsLead technology transfer initiatives from R&D prototypes to production manufacturing environmentsOperational Excellence & Continuous Improvement :
Implement advanced Lean Manufacturing methodologies including value stream mapping, cellular manufacturing, and pull systemsLead Six Sigma projects targeting major cost reduction, quality improvement, and efficiency enhancement opportunitiesDevelop manufacturing standards, best practices, and process control systems across product linesCreate performance metrics, dashboards, and monitoring systems for manufacturing excellence and continuous improvementDesign quality systems ensuring consistent production output, customer satisfaction, and regulatory complianceJOB QUALIFICATIONS / EXPERIENCE AND TECHNICAL SKILLS
Education & Experience :
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Industrial Engineering8+ years of manufacturing engineering experience with progressive technical and leadership responsibility5+ years of project leadership experience managing complex, cross-functional engineering initiativesProven track record of successful new product introductions from concept through high-volume productionTechnical Expertise :
Expert-Level Machining Knowledge : Deep understanding of CNC machining operations, multi-axis programming, tooling selection, feeds / speeds optimization, and advanced setup proceduresManufacturing Cost Estimation : Demonstrated ability to analyze engineering drawings and develop accurate manufacturing cost estimates with cycle time analysisAdvanced CAD / CAM Skills : Expert proficiency in SolidWorks, CAM programming, manufacturing simulation, and process modeling softwareERP Systems Mastery : Advanced proficiency in Epicor ERP or similar manufacturing systems for process planning, costing, and project managementQuality Systems Knowledge : Working expertise in ISO9001, AS9100, statistical process control, and regulatory compliance requirementsLeadership & Communication :
Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage complex projects, and mentor junior engineering personnelExcellent communication skills with demonstrated ability to present technical information to senior management, customers, and suppliersStrong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with experience in root cause analysis and corrective action implementationAbility to work effectively under pressure with multiple competing priorities and tight deadline requirementsPERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS :
Self-Starter / Self-Motivated / Flexible / Detail OrientedReliable and dependablePositive customer focused attitudeEnjoy fast pace and rapidly changing environment.Honest with good integrityProfessional demeanor and respectful to people in all situationsFlexible and willing to help others as needs and tasks change oftenTeam playerWORKING CONDITIONS : ??
Position requires significant time on the production floor conducting process analysis, troubleshooting, and team collaborationOffice-based work for project management, cost analysis, customer interface, and technical documentationOccasional travel to supplier facilities, customer sites, and industry conferencesMay require flexibility for project deadlines and customer support requirementsPhysical requirements include walking, standing, and lifting up to 25 lbs. in manufacturing environmentThe employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job, absent undue hardship. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.COMPENSATION / BENEFITS :
Salary range : $95,000 - $125,000 DOE with performance-based annual reviewPerformance bonus program based on individual and company performance metricsComprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance401(k) retirement plan with generous company matching contributionProfessional development support including certification reimbursement and conference attendancePaid time off / paid holidaysContinuing education opportunities and tuition reimbursement programEmployee Assistance ProgramsApplication 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.
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