Description:
Primary Function:
The Lead Manufacturing Engineer drives continuous improvement and process accountability across CNC and assembly operations. This role is responsible for optimizing job routings, SOPs, and workflows to reduce waste, improve quality, and increase throughput in a high-precision environment.
Position Responsibilities (including but not limited to):
Process Optimization & CI:
Drive plant-wide CI initiatives using Lean tools (Kaizen, 5S, standard work, etc.) to reduce cycle times and improve process repeatability
Own and improve job routings, work instructions, and standard procedures for machining and assembly
Identify and eliminate waste across CNC machining, composites, and assembly operations
Support engineering change control to ensure routing and BOM accuracy
Cross-Functional Support:
Partner with Design Engineering and CNC Programming to ensure manufacturability and smooth new product introductions
Lead PFMEA and root cause investigations for quality or process failures, and drive corrective actions
Serve as the technical interface between production, engineering, and quality for process-related issues
Work with Operations to implement accountability systems that sustain improvements
Technical Execution:
Develop and implement SOPs for all critical equipment and operator workflows
Coordinate internal and external resources to support equipment troubleshooting, maintenance, and tooling design
Utilize knowledge of cutting tools, fixtures, G-code, and inspection methods to improve part quality and first-pass yield
Oversee CNC cell optimization for throughput, cycle time reduction, and operator efficiency
All other duties as assigned
Skills:
Strong communicator with ability to coach floor teams and drive change
Expert in Lean principles
Deep understanding of CNC machining (especially vertical mills and lathe work)
Proficient with job routings, BOMs, routers, ERP system integration
Capable of reading prints with GD&T and precision tolerances
Comfortable working hands-on with machinists, maintenance, and engineers
Familiar with firearms manufacturing (preferred, not required)
Qualifications:
BS in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent experience)
5+ years in manufacturing engineering, with at least 3 in CNC machining environments
Strong knowledge of job routings, work instructions, SOPs, and change control
Experience with Lean/CI tools (certification preferred)
SolidWorks experience; familiarity with CAM software (Mastercam a plus)
Understanding of quality systems, inspection tools, and corrective action processes
Physical Requirements:
Extended periods of sitting and/or walking (33% - 75% of time)
Stooping, bending, twisting, leaning (10% - 25% of time)
Lifting of up to 25 lbs. occasionally (0% - 33% of time)
Work Environment:
Frequent work in a manufacturing environment where the use of proper protective equipment (PPE) such as eye protection, hearing protection and safety shoes is mandatory
Requirements:
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