About the role
Position Summary
The Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting the manufacturing processes that run our precision-machined components, with a focus on Hydromat rotary transfer and CNC equipment. This role owns the technical path from part print to repeatable production — tooling, fixturing, cycle time, and process documentation — and partners closely with Purchasing, Quality Engineering, and the shop floor to keep processes capable, on cost, and on schedule.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and document manufacturing processes for new and existing parts, including tool selection, cycle time optimization, and work-holding/fixture design.
* Program, set up, and troubleshoot Hydromat rotary transfer machines and CNC turning/milling equipment to support production runs and new part introduction.
* Partner with Purchasing on tooling and material specifications, and with Quality Engineering on gauging, inspection methods, and process capability.
* Lead root cause analysis and corrective action for process-related scrap, downtime, and quality escapes.
* Design and specify fixtures, gauges, and work-holding to improve repeatability, throughput, and operator safety.
* Support first-article inspection, PPAP, and customer qualification activities for new or revised processes.
* Monitor process capability (Cpk/Ppk) using SPC data and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
* Maintain accurate routings, work instructions, and process documentation within the ERP/MES system.
* Support capital equipment evaluation, tooling investment justification, and automation projects.
* Ensure processes comply with applicable quality and regulatory requirements, including ISO 9001/AS9100 and, where applicable, ITAR and CMMC.
Required Qualifications
* Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering, or equivalent hands-on process engineering experience.
* 3+ years of process engineering experience in a precision machining or high-volume manufacturing environment.
* Hands-on CNC programming/setup experience; rotary transfer machine experience (Hydromat or similar) strongly preferred.
* Working knowledge of GD&T, blueprint reading, and dimensional inspection equipment (CMM, optical comparators, hand gauges).
* Familiarity with SPC and structured problem-solving methods (8D, fishbone, 5-why) and continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma).
* Proficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks or similar) and ERP/MES systems.
* Strong hands-on troubleshooting ability and comfort working directly on the shop floor.
Preferred Qualifications
* Experience in a defense or aerospace manufacturing environment (ITAR, AS9100, CMMC).
* Lean/Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
* Experience machining specialty materials (carbide, UHMW, stainless, or similar).
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
* Primarily a plant-floor environment with exposure to machining coolant, noise, and moving equipment; safety glasses and required PPE must be worn.
* Ability to stand or walk for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 35 lbs.
* Occasional travel may be required for supplier or customer visits.