MANUFACTURING ENGINEER

Job Summary:

Yates Cylinders is seeking a detail-oriented and process-driven Manufacturing Engineer to optimize and support production operations at our facility. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in improving manufacturing processes, reducing waste, and ensuring product quality in the fabrication and assembly of hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, evaluate, and improve manufacturing methods, including machining, welding, honing, assembly, and testing processes.
• Design tooling, fixtures, and work instructions to improve production efficiency and operator safety.
• Collaborate with design engineering, CNC programmers, and quality control to support new product introductions and custom cylinder builds.
• Analyze production processes and implement lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives (5S, Kaizen, value stream mapping).
• Troubleshoot process issues and work with production teams to implement corrective actions.
• Monitor and improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), cycle times, and scrap rates.
• Support the implementation of ERP/MRP systems and ensure accurate BOMs and routings.
• Ensure all processes comply with company quality standards, ISO 9001, and safety regulations.

Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of machining operations (CNC turning, milling), welding, and assembly techniques.
• Experience with CAD (SolidWorks preferred) and CAM software.
• Familiarity with GD&T, process flow diagrams, PFMEAs, and control plans.
• Hands-on experience with lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies is a plus.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Experience:

• Previous experience working with hydraulic or pneumatic components.
• ERP software experience (such as Epicor, SAP, or similar).
• Root cause analysis (RCA) and statistical process control (SPC).

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education/Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field. 2–5 years of experience in a manufacturing engineering role, preferably in a heavy industrial or hydraulic component environment.

Language Ability:

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.

Math Ability:

Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.

Reasoning Ability:

Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

Computer Skills:

To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of Excel, Internet Explorer, Made2Manage, and Microsoft Outlook.

Why Join Yates Cylinders?

Yates Cylinders is a leader in the hydraulic cylinder industry with a reputation for quality and fast turnaround. We offer a dynamic work environment, competitive compensation, and opportunities for professional growth.