Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer

The Manufacturing Engineer is a key member of the operations and engineering team, responsible for supporting production performance through equipment optimization, manufacturing improvements, and advanced technical problem-solving. This role operates with a moderate level of independence, owning both production troubleshooting efforts and engineering projects from identification through implementation.

This position is primarily focused on manufacturing execution, equipment performance, and day-to-day production support, requiring a hands-on presence on the plant floor and close collaboration with operations and maintenance teams.

The role supports two manufacturing facilities located approximately 20 minutes apart.

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8-hour days, with flexibility for off-shift support, project work, or travel between local facilities as needed.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on engineering support to production, troubleshooting equipment and manufacturing issues to minimize downtime
• Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective actions related to safety, quality, and equipment performance
• Support production during downtime events and help restore operations safely and efficiently
• Work closely with production, maintenance, and leadership to maintain stable and efficient operations
• Lead and support initiatives to improve throughput, uptime, scrap reduction, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)
• Analyze production data to identify improvement opportunities in cycle time, efficiency, and cost
• Implement practical, floor-driven improvements that simplify processes and improve operator effectiveness
• Develop and maintain standard work, work instructions, and manufacturing documentation
• Support Lean Manufacturing initiatives focused on waste reduction and flow
• Design and develop fixtures, jigs, and equipment modifications using SolidWorks and/or AutoCAD
• Program, troubleshoot, and optimize CNC routers (3-axis), with preference for MasterCAM experience
• Utilize 3D printing to prototype and implement production solutions
• Troubleshoot and improve manufacturing equipment including mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems
• Support installation, commissioning, and upgrades of manufacturing equipment
• Coordinate with vendors and suppliers for equipment support, troubleshooting, and improvements
• Support and troubleshoot PLC-controlled equipment (Allen-Bladley preferred; Siemens a plus)
• Work with controls or automation resources to improve machine reliability and performance
• Support and optimize robotic cells (KUKA preferred; ABB/Fanuc experience beneficial)
• Assist in planning and executing capital projects including equipment selection, installation, and startup
• Manage multiple projects while maintaining alignment with production priorities
• Communicate project progress, risks, and outcomes to stakeholders
• Ensure equipment and processes meet safety standards and company policies
• Partner with Quality to support corrective actions related to manufacturing issues
• Participate in cross-site initiatives to maintain consistency between facilities
• Strategic application of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies to drive business outcomes, enhance decision-making, and improve operational efficiency.

Personal Attributes and Experience

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, or related field) or equivalent experience.
• 3–5+ years of experience in a hands-on manufacturing environment.
• Experience programming CNC 3-axis machines (routers preferred), utilizing MasterCAM for toolpath programming and machine optimization.
• Exposure to or experience with additional CNC equipment (e.g., laser cutters or similar systems) and associated CAM software.
• Experience with CAD design (SolidWorks and/or AutoCAD) for tooling or equipment modifications.
• Strong troubleshooting experience with manufacturing equipment and systems.
• Proven ability to take ownership of problems and drive solutions through implementation.

Preferred

• Experience with PLC systems and basic troubleshooting or programming
• Experience with robotic automation systems (KUKA strongly preferred)
• Familiarity with mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and basic electrical systems
• Experience supporting capital equipment projects
• Proficiency with MS Project or equivalent project management applications.
• Hands on experience with configuration management in ERP systems (Epicor preferred).
• Lean Manufacturing experience

Work Environment

This role operates in both office and manufacturing environments, with significant time spent on the production floor near moving mechanical equipment. The noise level in production areas is typically high. The noise level in the office is generally moderate.

Apogee and our brands are an Equal Opportunity Employer.