Process Engineer

Process Engineer OpportunityFounded in 1990, Utility Solutions is a designer and manufacturer of hot-line tools and products for the electrical power industry. Our success is based on working as a team to deliver high-quality products and unsurpassed customer service. We believe that each team member contributes directly to our growth and success as a company. Come grow with us!We are seeking a Process Engineer to join our team in Hickory, NC!The Process Engineer is responsible for leading the design, implementation, and continuous optimization of manufacturing systems across the organization. Acting as a technical Subject Matter Expert (SME), this role bridges engineering strategy with floor-level execution to ensure production meets safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.This position requires a highly hands-on, proactive engineering leader who spends significant time on the production floor working directly with operators to troubleshoot real-time issues, while also driving long-term capital projects and strategic efficiency initiatives. The Process Engineer collaborates closely with CNC operations and internal manufacturing teams to support the supply chain and ensure scalable, repeatable production processes.Job Responsibilities:Process Design & OptimizationDesign, develop, and implement innovative manufacturing methods to improve production flow, cycle times, throughput, and capacityConduct time studies and capacity analyses to support data-driven decisionsLead process improvement initiatives, including tooling and fixture designProvide hands-on equipment support and troubleshootingUpdate and maintain SOPs to reflect best practices and process changesLead 5S and workplace organization initiativesImprove changeover processes and reduce non-value-added activitiesSupport product quality control, quality assurance, and internal auditsImplement poka-yoke and lean manufacturing principlesTechnical Leadership & MentorshipServe as a technical leader and Subject Matter Expert for manufacturing processesProvide coaching, oversight, and development for other engineersCollaborate cross-functionally with production and engineering teamsAdvanced TroubleshootingApply structured problem-solving methodologies, including true root cause analysis and 5 Whys with Preventive Actions (PA), Corrective Actions (CA), and Opportunities for Improvement (OFI)Continuous ImprovementChampion Lean and Six Sigma initiatives, such as Kaizen events, Value Stream Mapping, and waste reduction projectsDrive improvements in yield, scrap reduction, and overall equipment effectivenessNew Product Introduction (NPI)Support the industrialization of new products from prototype and R&D stages into full-scale manufacturingEnsure processes are scalable, repeatable, and production-readyPartner with CNC and internal manufacturing teams to ensure part availability and manufacturabilityRequired Qualifications:5+ years of progressive experience in a manufacturing environmentBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Manufacturing EngineeringStrong safety orientation. Perform all tasks safely and responsiblyExpertise in CAD/SolidWorks for equipment, tooling, and layout designExperience with 3D modeling and 3D printingDemonstrated ability to lead process improvement and capital projectsProven problem-solving, analytical, and communication skillsAbility to work effectively on the production floor and with cross-functional teamsWilling to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and background checkLean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt is a plusElectronics and controls troubleshooting experience is a plusStrong mechanical aptitude with hands-on equipment experienceWork Environment:Approximately 25% office-based work and 75% time spent on active production linesUp to 10% travel may be required for multi-site projects or vendor coordinationWork Hours: 8:00am-5:00pm Monday-Friday, in office.Salary Range: $80,000-100,000 annually.