What are the responsibilities and job description for the Process Engineer position at Montana Knife Company, Inc?
At Montana Knife Company, a Process Engineer will analyze and improve manufacturing processes and workflows across our entire knife production facility. In support of both existing products and new product introductions, this role will focus on optimizing efficiency, improving quality, and reducing waste in our manufacturing. The ideal candidate has hands-on manufacturing experience, a proven record of process engineering success, and a strong understanding of knife-related production processes.
Key Responsibilities:
- Analyze, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes and workflows for knife production, including laser cutting, machining, heat treatment, grinding, finishing, and assembly
- Identify opportunities to improve productivity, quality, safety, and cost reduction using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies
- Develop and maintain process documentation, work instructions, and standard operating
procedures (SOPs)
- Support new product introductions by validating proposed manufacturing processes
- Collaborate with manufacturing, production, quality, and design teams to resolve process issues and implement improvements
- Perform time studies, capacity analysis, and root cause analysis for production challenges
- Support equipment selection, layout optimization, and process validation
- Provide technical support and training to production staff as needed
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or related field)
- Minimum of 5 years engineering experience, preferably in a production manufacturing
environment.
- Strong knowledge of process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma, etc.)
- Excellent critical thinking skills and attention to detail.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills; ability to work effectively in a collaborative
environment.
- Ability to balance numerous projects simultaneously while driving progress and schedule
conformance.
- Proficient in CAD software and other engineering tools.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with production vacuum heat treating, bevel and flat grinding, mass finish, laser
cutting, machining, product assembly
- Ability to program or implement automation/robotics in production
- SCADA experience in a production manufacturing environment
- Passion for knives, tools, and the outdoor industry
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary
- A supportive and innovative work environment.
- The chance to be part of a passionate team dedicated to producing top-quality knives.
- Paid Vacation
- 401k Matching Program
- Full Benefit Program