Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer - For Paragon Model Shop

• Location: Greater Grand Rapids, MI Area (100% On-Site)
• Employment Type: Full-Time
• Compensation: $28.00 – $32.00 / hour ($58,240 – $66,560 / year)

About the Position

As a Manufacturing Engineer at Paragon Model Shop, your day centers directly on the production floor, bridging design models and physical execution. You will arrive ready to tackle dynamic priorities: setting up equipment for specialized runs, maintaining a presence on the production floor, and stepping in alongside maintenance technicians to troubleshoot unexpected machine downtime in real time.

Between hands-on floor support calls, you will interface with our engineering and CAD personnel to inspect, verify, and modify CAD models in SolidWorks, ensuring shop floor operators have accurate dimensions and tooling parameters. When equipment issues arise, you remain level-headed, assess the root cause logically, and deliver practical mechanical solutions that keep production moving.

What We Offer

• Base Pay: $28.00 – $32.00 / hour ($58,240 – $66,560 annually).
• Profit-Sharing Incentive: Discretionary company-wide profit-sharing distribution paid throughout the year (historically 5% to 20%).
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) program with a 3.5% employer match on a 6% employee contribution.
• Healthcare: Comprehensive healthcare coverage available for purchase.
• Career Progression: Structured pathways into Lead Engineer, Operations/R&D, or Engineering Management roles.
• Culture: A collaborative, grounded, and flexible workplace where individual ownership is recognized and valued.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct daily technical support to shop floor operators and machining staff.
• Set up, calibrate, and verify manufacturing machines and tooling for production jobs.
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve mechanical or operational issues as they arise during runs.
• Partner closely with the maintenance team to conduct corrective repairs and preventative maintenance.
• Review, support, and adjust 3D CAD models (SolidWorks) to ensure compatibility with fabrication equipment.
• Maintain clear cross-functional communication with the shop manager, engineering department, and IT using Slack and face-to-face interaction.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• CAD Proficiency: Hands-on experience creating or reviewing models in SolidWorks or equivalent 3D modeling software.
• Technical Aptitude: Strong fundamental mechanical and engineering principles, high computer literacy, and an aptitude for diagnosing mechanical assemblies.
• Mindset: Demonstrated composure under operational pressure, self-management skills, and an eager approach to continuous learning.
• Work Authorization: Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.
• Preferred Experience: Familiarity with weld engineering, robotics, or automated manufacturing systems is an asset.

About the Company

Paragon Model Shop is a specialized, fast-growing manufacturing and prototyping facility. We believe that successful business outcomes are built on people, high integrity, and strict adherence to build quality. While our environment moves rapidly when active floor issues occur, we maintain a stable, level-headed atmosphere where team members are given the autonomy to solve real mechanical problems.

To Apply / Timeline

We are actively vetting candidates for an immediate start (target onboarding by late October). Qualified candidates will complete an initial screening followed by a single on-site interview and shop tour with our leadership team. Submit your resume to be considered.