Manufacturing Process Engineer

Position Summary

The Manufacturing Process Engineer serves as a hands-on process expert responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing manufacturing processes and equipment used in jet fuel production. The role focuses on improving safety, quality, yield, and productivity through engineering principles, structured problem-solving, and collaboration with Production, Quality, Product Engineering, and R&D teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the research, design, development, and implementation of new and improved manufacturing processes and equipment, including value stream mapping, process documentation, PFMEA, risk assessments, and control plans.
• Assist in managing new equipment projects from specification development through installation and release to operations, including vendor coordination, capital justification support, and execution under direction.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost reduction, quality improvement, yield enhancement, and ergonomic improvements.
• Analyze process data to identify trends, improve yield, and support root cause analysis of production issues.
• Maintain process-related documentation including manufacturing routers, process instructions, PFMEA, and control plans.
• Act as a manufacturing liaison supporting Design Engineering and R&D activities.
• Coordinate and participate in product trials and provide hands-on support and guidance to operators during development and validation activities.
• Review and approve engineering drawings, work instructions, and material specifications within established authority limits.
• Develop work instructions and operational control plans for shop floor use.
• Support safety initiatives and equipment/process compliance with NFPA codes and other applicable regulations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited institution required.
• Mechanical, Chemical, Materials Science, or Electrical Engineering disciplines preferred.
• Master's degree is a plus.

Experience

• Minimum of 3 years of manufacturing or process engineering experience.
• Experience with production equipment, assembly, inspection, or industrial processes.
• Experience in semi-automated assembly systems preferred.

Required Skills & Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to support process and equipment implementation projects.
• Strong collaboration skills with cross-functional manufacturing teams.
• Practical mechanical aptitude and hands-on problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and specifications.
• Familiarity with Lean manufacturing improvement methodologies such as Six Sigma, PDCA, Gemba Walks, and 5S.
• Experience implementing process and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience with SolidWorks, statistical tools, automation systems, and digital equipment is preferred.