Manufacturing Engineer II

Manufacturing Engineer IIAscentec Engineering is hiring a Manufacturing Engineer II to serve as an experienced technical contributor responsible for independently managing manufacturing processes, leading moderate-complexity NPI projects, and providing technical guidance to junior engineers. This role demonstrates proven capability in process optimization, cost reduction initiatives, and cross-functional collaboration while developing toward advanced technical leadership and strategic process development. The position requires solid hands-on machining knowledge, the ability to analyze engineering drawings for manufacturability, and demonstrated competence in project management.This position is on-site (not remote/not hybrid) at our Tualatin headquarters and is not eligible for Visa sponsorship or transfer of Visa sponsorship.Job ResponsibilitiesManufacturing Process Ownership & OptimizationIndependently develop and implement manufacturing processes for moderate-complexity components and assembliesLead NPI projects from concept through full production transition with minimal oversightOptimize existing processes to improve cycle time, yield, and cost-effectivenessDesign and validate manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and work-holding solutionsConduct time studies and establish standard work documentation for production operationsAdvanced Problem-SolvingLead root cause analysis investigations for quality escapes and process failuresDevelop and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) with measurable effectivenessApply statistical methods (DOE, capability studies) to optimize process parametersTroubleshoot complex machining issues involving multi-axis operations, tight tolerances, and difficult materialsIdentify and eliminate sources of variation in manufacturing processesTechnical DocumentationCreate comprehensive work instructions, process maps, and control plansDevelop and maintain process FMEA documentationEstablish process validation protocols and acceptance criteriaDocument lessons learned and contribute to knowledge base developmentManufacturing Cost Management & Value EngineeringDevelop detailed manufacturing cost estimates for new products and process changesConduct make-vs-buy analysis with supporting financial justificationIdentify cost reduction opportunities through process improvement and design optimizationTrack and report cost savings achieved through engineering initiativeValue Engineering LeadershipCollaborate with design engineering to optimize product manufacturabilityPropose alternative materials, processes, or manufacturing approaches to reduce costsEvaluate emerging manufacturing technologies for potential cost or quality benefitsBalance cost objectives with quality, delivery, and performance requirementsTechnical Mentorship & Team DevelopmentProvide technical guidance and mentorship to Manufacturing Engineer I team membersReview and approve work instructions and process documentation prepared by junior engineersServe as subject matter expert for specific manufacturing processes or technologiesLead knowledge-sharing sessions on advanced manufacturing techniquesTraining DevelopmentDevelop and deliver training materials for production personnel on new processesCreate visual aids, training videos, and quick-reference guidesAssess training effectiveness and implement improvementsProject Management & Cross-Functional LeadershipManage NPI projects involving 3-5 concurrent work streams with interdependenciesDevelop project plans with clear milestones, resource requirements, and success criteriaCoordinate cross-functional activities across engineering, quality, supply chain, and productionProactively identify and mitigate project risksReport project status to stakeholders with data-driven analysisStakeholder ManagementInterface with suppliers on technical process development and problem resolutionSupport customer technical reviews and process qualification activities (with PM coordination)Collaborate with quality engineering on inspection methods and acceptance criteriaPartner with production supervision to implement process improvementsQuality Systems & Continuous ImprovementParticipate in internal and external quality audits as process ownerLead closure of audit findings related to manufacturing processesEnsure processes comply with ISO9001, AS9100, and customer-specific requirementsMaintain process validation and control documentation per quality system requirementsAdvanced Quality ToolsApply SPC techniques to monitor process capability and stabilityConduct measurement system analysis (GR&R) studiesImplement poka-yoke (error-proofing) solutionsDevelop process control plans with appropriate reaction plansContinuous Improvement LeadershipLead Lean Six Sigma projects targeting specific operational metricsFacilitate kaizen events and value stream mapping activitiesImplement 5S workplace organization initiativesTrack and report improvement project results with validated savingsJob Qualifications / Experience and Technical SkillsEducation & Experience:Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Industrial Engineering3-5 years of manufacturing engineering experience in precision machining environmentDemonstrated experience leading NPI projects from design through productionExperience with CNC programming, setup, troubleshooting, and process optimizationTechnical Expertise:Intermediate to Advanced Machining Knowledge: Solid understanding of CNC machining operations, multi-axis programming, tooling selection, feeds/speeds optimization, and setup proceduresManufacturing Cost Estimation: Ability to analyze engineering drawings and develop accurate manufacturing cost estimates with cycle time analysisERP Systems: Experience with Epicor ERP or similar manufacturing systems for process planning, costing, and project managementQuality Systems Knowledge: Familiarity with ISO9001 and AS9100 standards, statistical process control, and CAPA methodologiesProcess Improvement: Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt certification preferred)Leadership & Communication:Proven ability to manage multiple projects independently with minimal supervisionStrong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with structured approach to root cause analysisExcellent written and verbal communication skills for technical and non-technical audiencesDemonstrated ability to mentor junior engineers and contribute to team developmentEffective collaboration skills with cross-functional teams including design, quality, and productionPersonal Qualifications:Self-starter / Self-motivated / Flexible / Detail orientedReliable and dependablePositive customer-focused attitudeEnjoy fast-paced and rapidly changing environmentHonest 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, documentation, and meetingsOccasional travel to supplier facilities or customer sites (<10% annually)May require flexibility for project deadlines and production support requirementsPhysical requirements include walking, standing, and lifting up to 35 lbs in manufacturing environmentCompensation / Benefits:Salary range: $80,000 - $105,000 DOE with performance-based annual reviewPerformance bonus program based on individual and company performance metrics