Manufacturing Engineer – Firearms & Precision Machining

PTR is seeking a highly technical, hands-on Manufacturing Engineer specialized in precision firearms manufacturing. In this role, you will design, optimize, and integrate advanced machinery and processes into our industrial manufacturing operations.

The ideal candidate will combine rigorous engineering principles with hands-on programming and tooling expertise—using software like SolidWorks and MasterCAM to engineer work holding solutions and streamline shop floor production.

Beyond technical execution, you will serve as a technical leader, mentoring machinists and engineers while championing continuous improvement (6S), safety, and manufacturing efficiency.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Process Design & Equipment Integration

• Plan, design, and coordinate the integration of machinery and automated equipment into industrial production processes.
• Apply expert knowledge of engineering principles, precision measuring instruments, computer software, and programming languages to meet production goals.
• Research in-house equipment needs, provide data-driven feedback to management regarding capital expenditures, and aid in the development or redesign of existing manufacturing systems.
• Oversee machinery installations to guarantee that new assets function strictly according to design and engineering specifications.

CAD/CAM Programming & Tooling Design

• Write and edit high-precision CNC machine operating programs using advanced computer-aided CAM software (e.g., MasterCAM, Esprit, or related systems).
• Design custom work holding and fixture solutions using SolidWorks CAD software to ensure components are manufactured exactly to print specifications.
• Participate in part print design reviews, offering critical design-for-manufacturability (DFM) suggestions to ease production and reduce cycle times.

Shop Floor Operations & Quality Control

• Program CNC machines, perform setups, execute troubleshooting, and complete full machine run-offs.
• Maintain hands-on versatility by operating manual tool room equipment as well as production CNC mills, lathes, and grinders when necessary.
• Conduct manufacturing capability studies on machined components to analyze and ensure consistent part quality and content adherence.
• Determine specific parts, tools, equipment layouts, and workflows required to achieve shifting manufacturing benchmarks.

Project Management & Mentorship

• Manage multiple engineering projects simultaneously while delivering clean, ready-to-run programs to multiple machinists concurrently.
• Mentor, train, and educate junior engineers and shop machinists on metal removal techniques, custom fixture design, secure work holding, and advanced programming.
• Actively contribute to organizational initiatives focusing on Safety, 6S, Quality, Delivery, and Productivity metrics.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSAs):

Education & Experience

• Academic Background: Bachelor’s degree with a concentration in Manufacturing Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
• Professional Longevity: 4–7 years of relevant industry experience, which must explicitly include hands-on CNC machining and programming experience.
• Alternative Pathway: An equivalent, verified combination of related experience, education, and/or technical training sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions of the job will be considered.

Technical Competency & Project Depth

• Engineering Principles: Comprehensive knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within the precision machining and firearms manufacturing field.
• Blueprint Literacy: Advanced working knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) as well as rigorous blueprint reading.
• Project Execution: Demonstrated ability to independently and collaboratively contribute to moderately complex aspects of a project, managing workflows smoothly under the pressure of tight deadlines.
• Tooling Precision: Deep technical understanding of cutting tool geometries, speed/feed calculations for ordnance steels/aluminum alloys, and working in close quarters with acute attention to detail.

Collaboration, Communication & Logistics

• Interpersonal Excellence: Teamwork and the ability to cooperate and work proactively with others is an absolute requirement.
• Professional Communication: Ability to work, interact, and effectively communicate clearly with all company officials, employees, and external vendors.
• Operational Agility: Highly self-motivated with the ability to manage time efficiently, prioritize shifting responsibilities, maintain excellent record-keeping skills, and put in extra effort and hours as needed.
• Cultural Alignment: Demonstrated ability to recognize, respect, and work in strict accordance with our organizational "Permission to Play" Values.
• Flexibility: Adaptable to workplace demands, with the understanding that employees may be assigned to other departments, functional groups, and/or shifts as deemed necessary by management.
• Growth Mindset: Willingness to actively participate in continuing education and professional development courses as deemed necessary by management.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Strength & Handling: Must be able to lift and carry awkward items weighing up to 50 pounds safely.
• Mobility: Requires intermittent standing, walking, sitting, and bending throughout the normal workday.
• Environment: Must be able to work comfortably and productively in a manufacturing plant environment, which includes working in and around heavy machinery.
• Hazards & Exposure: Routine exposure to industrial noise, manufacturing chemicals, shop floor lights/lasers, and sharp metallic objects.
• Safety Protocol: Must be able and willing to wear appropriate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)—including safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toe footwear—as required by your position and/or company safety policies.

Legal & Compliance Mandates

• Must be legally permitted to possess, handle, and test firearms and defense articles under applicable state and federal laws (ATF/ITAR compliance).

* EEO & Workplace Statement

PTR Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status, and promotes a Drug-Free Workplace.

* Disclaimer & Employment At-Will

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by those assigned to the job. This list is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel in this job. Responsibilities are subject to change at the discretion of the employer and do not establish a contract of employment. PTR Industries is an at-will employer.

ABOUT PTR:

Since 2002, PTR Industries has been committed to crafting reliable, accurate roller-delayed blowback firearms. Honoring an iconic legacy while advancing design through breakthrough technology, we pair tradition with modern innovation across our rifles, suppressors, and accessories. Through precision manufacturing, strict quality control, and dedicated customer service, we are committed to delivering an outstanding ownership experience for every customer.

Pay: From $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• What is your minimum desired salary or hourly wage for this position? (Note: A response is required to process your application. Please enter a numerical value. Providing this information is entirely voluntary, and your response will not be used to discriminate or penalize you in any stage of the hiring process.)
• Can you summarize your years of experience in high-precision manufacturing, and what drew you specifically to the firearms or small arms industry?
• What experience do you have with tight-tolerance machining (e.g., /- 0.0005 inches or tighter) for critical components like bolt carriers, firearm receivers, or match-grade barrels?

Work Location: In person

Salary : $100,000