Manufacturing Process Engineer - CNC Machining

Manufacturing Process Engineer - CNC Machining

Location: Huntersville, NC

About the Role

Burkert is seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Process Engineer to drive continuous improvement within our CNC machining operations while leading implementation of our global Lean manufacturing system, SYNCHRO+. This role combines technical process ownership, operational excellence, and shop-floor leadership to improve productivity, quality, equipment utilization, and manufacturing performance.

Reporting to the VP of Operations with a dotted-line relationship to the CNC Manufacturing Manager, this position is highly visible and directly impacts manufacturing efficiency and business results.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives across CNC machining operations, including turning, milling, and multi-axis machining.
• Improve machine utilization, OEE, setup reduction, throughput, and cycle times.
• Conduct time studies, capacity analysis, and process optimization activities.
• Maintain accurate SAP routings, scheduling data, and capacity planning information.
• Drive tooling, setup, and process standardization using best practices and lean manufacturing principles.
• Lead root cause investigations and corrective actions related to downtime, scrap, rework, and quality issues.
• Serve as the Manufacturing Lead for Burkert's SYNCHRO+ Lean Production Management System.
• Facilitate Kaizen events, 5S initiatives, TPM activities, and Value Stream Mapping workshops.
• Develop and maintain manufacturing standards, work instructions, process documentation, and training materials.
• Partner with Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Production teams to improve end-to-end manufacturing performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in CNC machining, manufacturing engineering, or process improvement.
• Strong knowledge of CNC turning, milling, tooling, fixturing, and machining processes.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, TPM, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with SAP production planning and scheduling systems preferred.
• CAD/CAM experience (Mastercam, Siemens NX, or similar) preferred.
• Knowledge of GD&T, SPC, root cause analysis, and quality systems.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt preferred.

What We're Looking For

• Strong technical and analytical problem-solving skills.
• Ability to influence and lead without direct authority.
• Hands-on, shop-floor-focused approach to manufacturing improvement.
• Self-starter with a passion for operational excellence and continuous improvement.
• Commitment to driving sustainable results through standardization, accountability, and teamwork.