Manufacturing Engineering Technician I

We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineering Technician who is passionate about continuous improvement, manufacturing process optimization, and data-driven problem solving. In this role, you will partner closely with Production, Manufacturing Engineering, and cross-functional teams to analyze manufacturing processes, identify improvement opportunities, and support new product introduction (NPI) activities. Responsibilities include process planning, root cause analysis, lean manufacturing initiatives, project coordination, and the development of tools and solutions that improve quality, productivity, and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate combines strong technical fundamentals with curiosity and initiative. We are particularly interested in individuals who enjoy analyzing manufacturing systems, applying Lean and Quality methodologies, and leveraging data to drive decisions. Experience with process analysis tools such as FMEA, Value Stream Mapping, and process flow modeling is highly valued. Interest or experience in manufacturing process simulation software—such as FlowSim, Arena, or similar platforms—is especially desirable, as this role will help evaluate and develop future simulation capabilities to identify bottlenecks, optimize workflows, and support strategic improvement efforts across our manufacturing operations. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Leverage World Class Manufacturing principles, work measurement, and flow analysis to recommend process improvement and automation opportunities for Production consideration. Participate in design reviews and manufacturability assessments in accordance with DFM guidelines. Complete assigned process planning, risk assessment, and/or process capability analysis tasks. Support manufacturing operations, specific technologies, and/or production lines; helping resolve issues through structured root cause analysis problem solving methods. Seek input, specify, and drive system enhancements to improve communications and optimize work processes. Provide accurate project estimates, coordinate prototype/pilot builds, and basic Engineering Change Orders through effective project management. Manage NPI project tasks (including build timelines, materials availability, and resource needs); execute assigned tasks, monitor progress, and capture results vs. plan to meet overall project deliverables. Support Production implementation efforts. Contribute to the development of basic solutions for production (e.g., jigs, tools) in accordance with defined engineering procedures and with engineering supervision. Help ensure product quality by interpreting and applying engineering requirements, specifications, IPC workmanship, IEC compliance, and other standards. Qualifications and Experience 1. Two-year technical degree or the combination of equivalent training and relevant work experience. 2. Demonstratable technical competence in ALL "core curriculum" subject areas: Drawing & schematic interpretation Problem solving skills, such as 8D, DOE, A3, or DMAIC Mathematics - geometry, trigonometry, college algebra Statistical Methods, Reasoning, & Applications Applied Physics Technical Writing 3. Demonstratable technical coming pathways: a. Continuous Improvement Methodologies, such as: Process analysis (FMEA, PFD, VSM) Lean principles (waste reduction, flow optimization, SMED/QCO) Quality tools (DMAIC, SPC, metrology, MSA, capability analysis) b.Mechanical design, Statics, CAD, Tolerance Analysis, and rapid prototyping c.Programming, Scripting, Data Structures, and Data Mining d. Project Management 4. Proficient user of (handles all standard tasks independently): Microsoft Outlook, Excel; Project Management tools, such as Confluence and JIRA 5. Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment 6. Strong written & verbal communication skills 7. Mechanical aptitude 8. Background check results satisfactory to SEL 9. Negative drug test results Physical Requirements Lift, push, pull and maneuver up to 20 pounds frequently, and up to 35 pounds occasionally Reach, Bend, Twist Sit and stand for at least 8 hours Vision correctable to 20/30 or better Ability to differentiate color Proficient in the use of computer keyboard devices Location Information Pullman, WA- This position is located in Pullman, WA. Nestled in Eastern Washington, offering an exceptional quality of life. Embrace the charm of small-town living with spacious surroundings, no traffic hassles, and easy access to outdoor adventures in nearby mountains, rivers, and forests. Plus, benefit from excellent schools and universities in the area. Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work. People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees. We’re 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options. We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance. We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay. We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs. Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits. Pay Range Information The range for this role is $32.88-$48.60 per hour. We base our starting pay offer on location and job-related factors such as candidate experience, training, knowledge, and skills. Our ranges are determined by job, responsibility, and location. Communication with Applicants We communicate with all applicants. If you do not receive a response about your application, please check your SPAM filter or reach out to us at View email address on click.appcast.io. SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled. SEL invents, designs, and builds digital products and systems that protect power grids around the world. This technology prevents blackouts and enables customers to improve power system reliability and safety at a reduced cost. A 100 percent employee-owned company headquartered in Pullman, Washington, SEL has manufactured products in the United States since 1984 and now serves customers worldwide. Our mission is simple: to make electric power safer, more reliable, and more economical.