Weld Manufacturing Engineer

Weld Manufacturing Engineer – Newton, North Carolina. Dauch is looking for an engineer to support and improve welding operations in our high‑volume automotive manufacturing environment. The role focuses on process stability, quality, throughput, and cost efficiency, ensuring compliance with automotive standards while launching new programs, optimizing existing welding processes, and supporting automated and robotic welding systems. The ideal candidate is hands‑on and solutions‑oriented, with strong welding and automation expertise, a passion for continuous improvement, and the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced automotive manufacturing environment. The candidate should be comfortable troubleshooting on the floor as well as leading process improvements and supporting new program launches. Preferred qualifications include Tier 1 automotive supplier experience, strong knowledge of laser welding processes, and CAD experience (Inventor/Creo). Job Description Develop, implement, and optimize laser welding processes for production. Support daily manufacturing operations by troubleshooting weld‑related issues and minimizing downtime. Establish and maintain process parameters, work instructions, and standardized operating procedures. Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for weld defects, quality issues, and equipment failures. Support new product launches, including process design, equipment validation, APQP deliverables, PFMEA, and control plans. Work closely with Quality to ensure compliance with IATF 16949 and customer‑specific requirements. Analyze production data (scrap, rework, downtime, cycle time) to drive continuous improvement initiatives. Improve welding efficiency, including cycle time reduction and OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness). Assist in specifying, installing, and commissioning new welding equipment, tooling, and automation systems. Provide technical support and training to operators, technicians, and maintenance personnel. Collaborate with suppliers, integrators, and customers on weld process‑related issues. All other duties as assigned. Required Skills And Education Bachelor’s Degree in Welding Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field, or equivalent experience. 1–2+ years of experience in Welding or Manufacturing Engineering in an automotive or high‑volume production environment. Demonstrated experience supporting production welding operations and new program launches. Hands‑on experience with robotic welding systems (Fanuc, ABB, KUKA, or similar). Understanding of weld quality standards, inspection methods, and destructive/non‑destructive testing. Experience with PLC‑controlled equipment and automated production lines. Knowledge of metallurgy, weld joint design, and fixture/tooling concepts. Familiarity with APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans, and SPC. Proficiency in problem‑solving methodologies (8D, 5 Why, Fishbone). Ability to analyze and interpret production and quality data. Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. Dauch will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that Associates are treated equally during employment, without regard to their age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. For the Disabled Job Seeker: We offer reasonable accommodations for qualified disabled individuals who are applicants for employment. To request assistance or accommodations, please e-mail View email address on click.appcast.io. Dauch is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Dauch