Manufacturing Engineer II

Description Ascentec Engineering is hiring a Manufacturing Engineer II to serve as an experienced technical contributor responsible for independently managing manufacturing processes, leading moderate-complexity NPI projects, and providing technical guidance to junior engineers. This role demonstrates proven capability in process optimization, cost reduction initiatives, and cross-functional collaboration while developing toward advanced technical leadership and strategic process development. The position requires solid hands‑on machining knowledge, the ability to analyze engineering drawings for manufacturability, and demonstrated competence in project management. Job Responsibilities Manufacturing Process Ownership & Optimization Process Development & Refinement Independently develop and implement manufacturing processes for moderate‑complexity components and assemblies Lead NPI projects from concept through full production transition with minimal oversight Optimize existing processes to improve cycle time, yield, and cost‑effectiveness Design and validate manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and work‑holding solutions Conduct time studies and establish standard work documentation for production operations Advanced Problem‑Solving Lead root cause analysis investigations for quality escapes and process failures Develop and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) with measurable effectiveness Apply statistical methods (DOE, capability studies) to optimize process parameters Troubleshoot complex machining issues involving multi‑axis operations, tight tolerances, and difficult materials Identify and eliminate sources of variation in manufacturing processes Technical Documentation Create comprehensive work instructions, process maps, and control plans Develop and maintain process FMEA documentation Establish process validation protocols and acceptance criteria Document lessons learned and contribute to knowledge base development Manufacturing Cost Management & Value Engineering Cost Estimation & Analysis Develop detailed manufacturing cost estimates for new products and process changes Conduct make‑vs‑buy analysis with supporting financial justification Identify cost reduction opportunities through process improvement and design optimization Track and report cost savings achieved through engineering initiative Value Engineering Leadership Collaborate with design engineering to optimize product manufacturability Propose alternative materials, processes, or manufacturing approaches to reduce costs Evaluate emerging manufacturing technologies for potential cost or quality benefits Balance cost objectives with quality, delivery, and performance requirements Technical Mentorship & Team Development Peer & Junior Engineer Support Provide technical guidance and mentorship to Manufacturing Engineer I team members Review and approve work instructions and process documentation prepared by junior engineers Serve as subject matter expert for specific manufacturing processes or technologies Lead knowledge‑sharing sessions on advanced manufacturing techniques Training Development Develop and deliver training materials for production personnel on new processes Create visual aids, training videos, and quick‑reference guides Assess training effectiveness and implement improvements Project Management & Cross‑Functional Leadership NPI Project Leadership Manage NPI projects involving 3‑5 concurrent work streams with interdependencies Develop project plans with clear milestones, resource requirements, and success criteria Coordinate cross‑functional activities across engineering, quality, supply chain, and production Proactively identify and mitigate project risks Report project status to stakeholders with data‑driven analysis Stakeholder Management Interface with suppliers on technical process development and problem resolution Support customer technical reviews and process qualification activities (with PM coordination) Collaborate with quality engineering on inspection methods and acceptance criteria Partner with production supervision to implement process improvements Quality Systems & Continuous Improvement Quality System Contribution Participate in internal and external quality audits as process owner Lead closure of audit findings related to manufacturing processes Ensure processes comply with ISO9001, AS9100, and customer‑specific requirements Maintain process validation and control documentation per quality system requirements Advanced Quality Tools Apply SPC techniques to monitor process capability and stability Conduct measurement system analysis (GR&R) studies Implement poka‑yoke (error‑proofing) solutions Develop process control plans with appropriate reaction plans Continuous Improvement Leadership Lead Lean Six Sigma projects targeting specific operational metrics Facilitate kaizen events and value stream mapping activities Implement 5S workplace organization initiatives Track and report improvement project results with validated savings Education & Experience Job Qualifications / Experience and Technical Skills Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Industrial Engineering 3‑5 years of manufacturing engineering experience in precision machining environment Demonstrated experience leading NPI projects from design through production Experience with CNC programming, setup, troubleshooting, and process optimization Technical Expertise Intermediate to Advanced Machining Knowledge: Solid understanding of CNC machining operations, multi‑axis programming, tooling selection, feeds/speeds optimization, and setup procedures Manufacturing Cost Estimation: Ability to analyze engineering drawings and develop accurate manufacturing cost estimates with cycle time analysis ERP Systems: Experience with Epicor ERP or similar manufacturing systems for process planning, costing, and project management Quality Systems Knowledge: Familiarity with ISO9001 and AS9100 standards, statistical process control, and CAPA methodologies Process Improvement: Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt certification preferred) Leadership & Communication Proven ability to manage multiple projects independently with minimal supervision Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities with structured approach to root cause analysis Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical and non‑technical audiences Demonstrated ability to mentor junior engineers and contribute to team development Effective collaboration skills with cross‑functional teams including design, quality, and production Personal Qualifications Self‑starter / Self‑motivated / Flexible / Detail oriented Reliable and dependable Positive customer‑focused attitude Enjoy fast‑paced and rapidly changing environment Honest with good integrity Professional demeanor and respectful to people in all situations Flexible and willing to help others as needs and tasks change often Team player Working Conditions Position requires significant time on the production floor conducting process analysis, troubleshooting, and team collaboration Office‑based work for project management, cost analysis, documentation, and meetings Occasional travel to supplier facilities or customer sites ( May require flexibility for project deadlines and production support requirements Physical requirements include walking, standing, and lifting up to 35 lbs in manufacturing environment Compensation / Benefits Salary range: $80,000 - $105,000 DOE with performance‑based annual review Performance bonus program based on individual and company performance metrics Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance 401(k) retirement plan with generous company matching contribution Professional development support including certification reimbursement and conference attendance Paid time off / Paid holidays Continuing education opportunities and tuition reimbursement program Other Requirements Applicant must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check prior to employment. ITAR Requirements To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8U.S.C.1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Ascentec Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Ascentec Engineering is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr