Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing EngineerThis Manufacturing Engineer role supports a growing precision manufacturing operation focused on CNC machining and value-added processing. You will play a critical role in improving manufacturing processes, increasing equipment utilization, reducing downtime, and supporting the continued expansion of the operation. This is a high-impact engineering position with broad visibility across the facility and significant opportunities to influence process improvement and operational growth.Responsibilities:Support daily manufacturing operations and provide engineering expertise to production teams.Develop, implement, and improve manufacturing processes to enhance safety, quality, efficiency, and productivity.Analyze equipment performance and identify opportunities to increase uptime and reduce downtime.Create and maintain work instructions, process documentation, setup procedures, and inspection plans.Provide technical support for CNC machining, including programming, machine setup, and troubleshooting activities.Collaborate closely with production, maintenance, quality, and leadership teams to resolve manufacturing challenges.Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on workflow optimization, waste reduction, and operational excellence.Assist with equipment evaluations, capital projects, process changes, and facility expansion initiatives.Monitor production metrics and make data-driven recommendations for process and performance improvements.Support preventative maintenance efforts and initiatives to improve equipment performance.Work directly with machine operators and production personnel to identify, develop, and implement process enhancements.Participate in root cause investigations and implement corrective actions for recurring production issues.Ensure compliance with customer requirements, quality standards, and applicable regulatory guidelines in all manufacturing activities.Essential Skills:Manufacturing engineering experience or process engineering experience in a production environment.Experience supporting CNC machining operations in a precision manufacturing setting.Knowledge of CNC programming and machine setup processes.Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.Proficiency with CAD software, preferably AutoCAD.Experience developing inspection plans, manufacturing documentation, and process controls.Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities in a production environment.Excellent communication skills and the ability to work cross-functionally with operations, maintenance, quality, and leadership teams.Additional Skills & Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a similar technical discipline.Experience with waterjet cutting equipment or similar precision cutting technologies.G-Code programming experience for CNC machinery.Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.Knowledge of government-related manufacturing requirements and documentation.Experience supporting custom manufacturing or job-shop environments.Project management experience involving equipment, process improvements, or facility expansion projects.Interest in contributing to long-term operational growth within a collaborative engineering-focused culture.Work Environment:This role is based in a hands-on, precision manufacturing facility with a small, collaborative engineering team. Standard hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You will work closely with machine operators, production personnel, maintenance, quality, and leadership across all levels of the facility, with frequent interaction on the shop floor. The environment emphasizes teamwork, continuous improvement, and engineering-driven problem solving, offering exposure to a diverse range of manufacturing projects and customer industries as the organization continues to expand.Job Type & Location:This is a Contract to Hire position based out of South Bend, IN.Pay and Benefits:The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $60.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace Type:This is a fully onsite position in South Bend, IN.Application Deadline:This position is anticipated to close on Sep 7, 2026.