What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manufacturing Engineer position at 180 Engineering?
Manufacturing Engineer (Direct Hire)
Valparaiso, IN
Job Requisition: 7555
Description for Manufacturing Engineer:
This is a hands-on role as the Manufacturing Engineer to support and improve manual SMT-related and electromechanical assembly operations. This role focuses on driving process improvement, fixture and tooling development, and shop floor execution. The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical aptitude and a practical, build-and-test mindset to improve how products are assembled, tested, and manufactured. This position is heavily focused on working directly with production teams, implementing lean manufacturing principles, and continuously improving efficiency, quality, and throughput in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Responsibilities for Manufacturing Engineer:
• Analyze and improve manual SMT-related and assembly manufacturing processes to increase efficiency and reduce waste
• Design, develop, and implement jigs, fixtures, and tooling to support and improve assembly operations
• Work directly with production teams on the shop floor to troubleshoot and resolve manufacturing issues
• Drive lean manufacturing initiatives and continuous improvement activities
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions for production and quality issues
• Collaborate with quality teams to ensure products meet required standards
• Lead and support manufacturing improvement projects and new product introduction activities
• Use data and shop floor observation to identify trends and implement practical solutions
• Train and mentor production staff on best practices and lean principles
• Support development of more efficient and repeatable manual assembly methods
Requirements for Manufacturing Engineer:
• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field
• Strong hands-on experience in manufacturing and assembly environments
• High level of mechanical aptitude and understanding of how mechanical systems and fixtures function
• Experience designing or building jigs, fixtures, or manufacturing tooling
• Experience working directly with shop floor teams in a manufacturing setting
• Background in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies
• Ability to take projects from concept through build and implementation independently
• Strong problem-solving skills with a practical, hands-on approach
• Experience in SMT-related manual assembly environments preferred but not required