Process Engineer

Position Summary 

The Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting the manufacturing processes that run our precision-machined components, with a focus on Hydromat rotary transfer and CNC equipment. This role owns the technical path from part print to repeatable production — tooling, fixturing, cycle time, and process documentation — and partners closely with Purchasing, Quality Engineering, and the shop floor to keep processes capable, on cost, and on schedule. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Develop and document manufacturing processes for new and existing parts, including tool selection, cycle time optimization, and work-holding/fixture design. 

• Program, set up, and troubleshoot Hydromat rotary transfer machines and CNC turning/milling equipment to support production runs and new part introduction. 

• Partner with Purchasing on tooling and material specifications, and with Quality Engineering on gauging, inspection methods, and process capability. 

• Lead root cause analysis and corrective action for process-related scrap, downtime, and quality escapes. 

• Design and specify fixtures, gauges, and work-holding to improve repeatability, throughput, and operator safety. 

• Support first-article inspection, PPAP, and customer qualification activities for new or revised processes. 

• Monitor process capability (Cpk/Ppk) using SPC data and drive continuous improvement initiatives. 

• Maintain accurate routings, work instructions, and process documentation within the ERP/MES system. 

• Support capital equipment evaluation, tooling investment justification, and automation projects. 

• Ensure processes comply with applicable quality and regulatory requirements, including ISO 9001/AS9100 and, where applicable, ITAR and CMMC. 

Required Qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering, or equivalent hands-on process engineering experience. 

• 3+ years of process engineering experience in a precision machining or high-volume manufacturing environment. 

• Hands-on CNC programming/setup experience; rotary transfer machine experience (Hydromat or similar) strongly preferred. 

• Working knowledge of GD&T, blueprint reading, and dimensional inspection equipment (CMM, optical comparators, hand gauges). 

• Familiarity with SPC and structured problem-solving methods (8D, fishbone, 5-why) and continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma). 

• Proficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks or similar) and ERP/MES systems. 

• Strong hands-on troubleshooting ability and comfort working directly on the shop floor. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience in a defense or aerospace manufacturing environment (ITAR, AS9100, CMMC). 

• Lean/Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification. 

• Experience machining specialty materials (carbide, UHMW, stainless, or similar). 

Work Environment & Physical Requirements 

• Primarily a plant-floor environment with exposure to machining coolant, noise, and moving equipment; safety glasses and required PPE must be worn. 

• Ability to stand or walk for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 35 lbs. 

• Occasional travel may be required for supplier or customer visits.