Mechanical Engineer III

Job-ID Reference Remote50% RemotePay rate range- $60/hr. - $65/hr.
Fully Onsite
Job Description: 
Must Have:
3+ years of manufacturing experience with exposure to multiple processes
Strong knowledge of at least two manufacturing modalities (additive manufacturing, CNC machining, welding, sheet metal fabrication, or assembly)
Proficiency with 3D CAD software and manufacturing preparation tools
Demonstrated ability to read and interpret technical drawings and GD&T
Strong analytical skills for cost estimation and capacity planning
Client seeks an Application Engineer to serve as the technical bridge between customers and manufacturing operations across all our manufacturing capabilities. You will own the customer quoting process, production planning, and design for manufacturability (DFM) consultation for projects spanning additive manufacturing, CNC machining, welding, sheet metal fabrication, powder coating, and assembly. This role requires broad technical knowledge of multiple manufacturing processes and the ability to translate customer requirements into executable production plans.
Key Responsibilities:
Customer Engagement and Quoting
Review customer requirements and technical drawings to assess project feasibility across all manufacturing modalities
Generate accurate quotes including material costs, labor estimates, and lead times for complex multi-process projects
Provide design for manufacturability (DFM) feedback to optimize parts for additive manufacturing, CNC machining, welding, sheet metal fabrication, and assembly
Recommend optimal manufacturing processes based on part geometry, tolerances, materials, cost, and lead time requirements
Collaborate with customers to refine designs and specifications
Support Customer Success team with technical expertise during customer interactions
Production Planning and Scheduling
Prepare manufacturing files including 3D printing build prep, CNC programming coordination, and sheet metal nesting
Plan and schedule jobs across multiple manufacturing processes to optimize throughput and meet delivery commitments
Conduct capacity planning to balance customer demand with available manufacturing resources across all departments
Estimate labor requirements for machining, printing, welding, fabrication, coating, post-processing, and assembly operations
Coordinate with CNC programming team to manage programming capacity and lead times
Work with manufacturing managers on production priorities and resource allocation
Technical Analysis
Analyze part geometry to determine optimal manufacturing approach (additive vs. subtractive, hybrid processes)
Evaluate material selection across metals, plastics, and composites for different manufacturing processes
Identify potential manufacturing challenges and recommend design modifications
Assess trade-offs between cost, quality, lead time, and manufacturing complexity
Support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce costs and improve efficiency
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with Additive Manufacturing Manager and Subtractive Manufacturing Manager to ensure smooth transition from quote to production
Work with quality engineers on inspection requirements and first article approvals
Coordinate multi-process workflows for hybrid projects requiring 3D printing, machining, welding, coating, and assembly
Support Business Development with technical assessments for new capabilities and technologies
Collaborate with CNC programmers on manufacturability and programming feasibility
Qualifications:
Required
3+ years of manufacturing experience with exposure to multiple processes
Strong knowledge of at least two manufacturing modalities (additive manufacturing, CNC machining, welding, sheet metal fabrication, or assembly)
Proficiency with 3D CAD software and manufacturing preparation tools
Demonstrated ability to read and interpret technical drawings and GD&T
Strong analytical skills for cost estimation and capacity planning
Preferred:
5+ years of manufacturing experience across multiple modalities (3D printing, CNC machining, welding, sheet metal, coating, assembly)
Experience in contract manufacturing or customer-facing technical roles
Familiarity with design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) principles
Knowledge of CNC programming and CAM software (Mastercam, ESPRIT, or similar)
Understanding of welding processes, sheet metal fabrication techniques, and surface finishing
Project management experience with multiple concurrent projects
Proficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar)
Strong verbal and written communication skills for customer interactions
Success Profile:
Customer-focused with strong service orientation
High attention to detail with commitment to accuracy in quoting and planning
Strong technical problem-solving skills with practical, cross-functional approach
Proven ability to work effectively in fast-paced environments with competing priorities
Excellent time management and organizational skills
Collaborative mindset with ability to work across multiple manufacturing teams
Self-starter with bias for action and ownership mentality
Adaptable with ability to learn new manufacturing technologies and processes
Heavy machinery or powered industrial equipment (e.g., forklifts, pallet jacks, conveyors)
Elevated work areas or fall hazards
Repetitive physical tasks (lifting, bending, reaching)
Hazardous materials or chemicals
Extreme temperatures (cold storage, outdoor exposure)
Electrical systems or high-voltage equipment- on the floor but locked up
Autonomous robots or automated guided vehicles- within secure fencing
Airborne particulates or noise above safe thresholds- yes but hearing protection