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.

This position is on-site (not remote/not hybrid) at our Tualatin headquarters and is not eligible for Visa sponsorship or transfer of Visa sponsorship.

Requirements

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

JOB QUALIFICATIONS / EXPERIENCE AND TECHNICAL SKILLS:

Education & Experience:

• •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 ( 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 gener