What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manufacturing Engineer (Contract) position at The Dolphin Group?
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Manufacturing Engineer (Contract) to support the development and launch of new and custom products. This role is responsible for reviewing and optimizing drawings, models, and prints to ensure successful manufacturability, product performance, quality, durability, and cost targets are achieved.
The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and brings strong technical expertise in manufacturing processes, engineering documentation, and product development. This position requires a high degree of accuracy, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting critical deadlines.
Primary Responsibilities
Product Development & Manufacturing Support
- Review and evaluate engineering drawings and 3D models to ensure all manufacturing requirements are accurately defined, including weldments, tooling, bends, tolerances, and fabrication specifications
- Partner with Product Engineering and Manufacturing teams to conduct cost analyses and implement cost-saving design optimizations
- Support manufacturing readiness activities including:
- Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
- Design for Assembly (DFA)
- Pilot builds
- New Product Introduction (NPI)
- Transition to production
- Collaborate on innovative new products, product enhancements, and emerging technologies to meet evolving market needs
- Coordinate with suppliers to support prototype builds and ensure design intent and quality expectations are achieved
- Ensure designs meet structural, ergonomic, safety, and manufacturability requirements
- Review technical documentation for feasibility, completeness, and accuracy
- Participate in and lead design reviews focused on manufacturability and specification compliance
- Create work instructions and assembly documentation
- Provide technical support and guidance across departments as needed
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Key Deliverables
- Develop accurate manufacturing drawings and technical documentation for parts and products
- Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure all technical and manufacturing requirements are successfully executed
- Contribute to a positive, collaborative culture that values teamwork, accountability, and innovation
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical, or related Engineering field
- 5 years of experience in an engineering design or manufacturing engineering environment
- 2 years of experience designing consumer or industrial electro-mechanical/mechanical products, including New Product Introduction (NPI)
Technical Skills
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes including:
- Sheet metal fabrication
- Welding
- Casework
- Injection molding
- Extrusion
- Casting
- Proficiency with CAD/CAM software
- SolidWorks experience required
- AutoCAD experience preferred
- Knowledge of engineering standards, best practices, and documentation methods
- Experience with Microsoft Office and Product Data Management (PDM) systems
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with SolidWorks PDM and ERP/MRP systems
- Experience with configurable or custom-engineered products
- Background supporting low-to-mid volume, high-mix manufacturing environments
- Manufacturing engineering experience in a related industry
- Professional Engineering (PE) License preferred, but not required
Benefits:
- Health care insurance benefits available first of the month following 60 days of employment. Thirty (30) hours worked per week must be averaged in order to maintain coverage. 401k enrollment is available per the Secure Act guidelines. Earned Sick and Safe time is accrued and can be used per the State of MN guidelines. #IND345