- Professional
- Office in Cowpens
Description
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Manufacturing Engineer (CNC Specialist) is responsible for developing, verifying, and optimizing CNC programming and setup procedures to support efficient, high-quality production. This role ensures process integrity, improves productivity, and sustains manufacturing best practices through a hands-on approach and a deep understanding of machining operations. Reporting to the Senior Manufacturing Manager, this role collaborates with cross-functional teams including Quality, Production, and Maintenance to drive standardization, continuous improvement, and high-performance CNC machining
Requirements
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develop, verify, and troubleshoot CNC programs for a variety of parts and machines.
- Perform and validate machine setups and ensure first-piece inspections meet specifications.
- Conduct root cause analyses and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA) as part of continuous quality improvement.
- Monitor tooling wear/life using both manual and automated tracking systems; maintain documentation for tooling and CNC equipment.
- Create and maintain standard work instructions, setup sheets, and process documentation to ensure process repeatability and compliance.
- Lead and support Lean Manufacturing initiatives and Six Sigma methodologies to reduce waste, optimize process efficiency, and improve yield.
- Perform first-piece inspection / apply statistical tools such as FMEA and SPC to evaluate and enhance process capability.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement and sustain continuous improvement activities.
- Maintain a strong working knowledge of CAD/CAM platforms (e.g., SolidWorks) and CNC controls.
QUALIFICATIONS (Education, Experience, & Skills required)
Education: Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field preferred. Equivalent experience may be considered.
Experience: 7–10+ years of hands-on experience in machining operations, including CNC programming, machine setup, troubleshooting, and process improvement in a manufacturing environment.
Core Competencies & Leadership Attributes
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Continuous improvement mindset
- High attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to lead small projects and cross-functional teams
- Effective communicator across technical and non-technical stakeholders
Skills:
- Advanced CNC programming and setup capabilities
- Proficiency with CAD/CAM software such as SolidWorks
- Experience with SPC, FMEA, and other quality control tools
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
- Strong documentation and process standardization skills
Licensing or other special certifications:
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (preferred)
- Certifications in CNC operation/programming (desirable)