Manufacturing Engineer

Position Summary:

The Manufacturing Engineer reports to the Director of Operations. The is a critical role in supporting CITEL Surge Protection's U.S. manufacturing at our new Hillsborough, North Carolina facility. The position is responsible for developing and improving safe and efficient manufacturing processes for electrical surge suppression products. This hands-on role works closely with production to improve process flow, develop assembly methods, fixtures, tooling, and documentation, and transition new products into production. The ideal candidate has manufacturing experience, preferably in printed circuit boards (PCB) assembly, soldering, electrical/electronic assembly, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement, with the ability to translate engineering concepts into practical, repeatable processes.

Key Responsibilities

Safety & Ergonomics

• Partner with Production to implement corrective actions and improve workplace safety.
• Identify and eliminate manufacturing safety hazards within production areas.
• Design and modify workstations, fixtures, tooling, and processes to reduce ergonomic risks, including repetitive motion, awkward postures, excessive reaching, and lifting.

Production Process Improvement

• Improve product flow optimizing workstation layouts, material presentation & process sequencing.
• Apply lean manufacturing principles to identify bottlenecks, eliminate waste, and improve manufacturing efficiency.
• Identify opportunities to reduce cycle time and improve labor utilization.
• Determine labor & equipment capacity, identify constraints & opportunities to improve throughput.
• Develop and maintain assembly instructions, standard work, and other manufacturing documentation.
• Design, implement, and improve production fixtures, jigs, tooling, workstations, and assembly aids.
• Identify, evaluate, and implement automation opportunities that improve productivity and efficiency while providing a justifiable return on investment.
• Participate in new product development, prototype builds, and Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) activities.
• Support the transition of new products from R&D into production.
• Perform line balancing to optimize labor utilization and production flow.

Quality & Problem Solving

• Work closely with Quality and Production to investigate manufacturing and product quality issues.
• Utilize practical problem-solving and root-cause analysis techniques to resolve issues and implement effective corrective and preventive actions.
• Develop process controls and mistake-proofing (Poka-Yoke) solutions where appropriate.
• Reduce scrap, rework, defects, and process variation through continuous improvement.

Job Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing or process engineering role in a manufacturing environment
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, or a related engineering discipline
• Experience applying Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.
• Demonstrated experience and results in Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to work directly with production equipment, tooling, fixtures, and processes.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products and CAD software
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of the organization
• CITEL does not provide visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship.

Preferred

• Hands-on experience with electrical/electronic assembly is strongly preferred.
• Experience with hand soldering, wave soldering and PCB assembly is desirable.

Qualifications

Required

• 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing or process engineering role in a manufacturing environment
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, or a related engineering discipline
• Experience applying Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.
• Demonstrated experience and results in Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to work directly with production equipment, tooling, fixtures, and processes.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products and CAD software
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of the organization

Preferred

• Hands-on experience with electrical/electronic assembly is strongly preferred.
• Experience with hand soldering, wave soldering and PCB assembly is desirable.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Able to lift up to 50 pounds
• Available to work extended hours as needed to ensure business needs are met
• Ability to walk/stand for extended periods and perform periodic inspections

Why Join CITEL?

Our new RTP-area facility represents the future of CITEL's U.S. operations, bringing together advanced manufacturing, innovative technology, and a collaborative team environment. Located in the thriving Raleigh-Durham region, this opportunity offers professional growth, technical challenges, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on a growing operation.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance bonus
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Company-paid life insurance
• Health & Wellness Incentives
• Career development and advancement opportunities

Equal Opportunity Employer

CITEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, national origin, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. Employment decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs.