Manufacturing Engineer Lead
Caldwell, ID
Full Time
Experienced
Summary:
The Lead Manufacturing Engineer will provide technical leadership and hands-on support across all manufacturing engineering functions — from design transition to production optimization. This role is responsible for ensuring engineering designs are fully producible, cost-effective, and compliant with quality and safety standards.
The Lead Manufacturing Engineer will guide a team of engineers and technicians in developing manufacturing plans, tooling, fixtures, and process improvements that drive efficiency, reliability, and quality across production. They will serve as the primary engineering liaison to manufacturing, providing immediate, practical solutions to production issues and leading continuous improvement initiatives.
This position requires both strategic oversight and on-the-floor engagement — partnering with design, quality, and operations teams to ensure every product is built right the first time and meets both internal and customer expectations.
Accountabilities:
The Lead Manufacturing Engineer will provide technical leadership and hands-on support across all manufacturing engineering functions — from design transition to production optimization. This role is responsible for ensuring engineering designs are fully producible, cost-effective, and compliant with quality and safety standards.
The Lead Manufacturing Engineer will guide a team of engineers and technicians in developing manufacturing plans, tooling, fixtures, and process improvements that drive efficiency, reliability, and quality across production. They will serve as the primary engineering liaison to manufacturing, providing immediate, practical solutions to production issues and leading continuous improvement initiatives.
This position requires both strategic oversight and on-the-floor engagement — partnering with design, quality, and operations teams to ensure every product is built right the first time and meets both internal and customer expectations.
Accountabilities:
- Provide leadership, technical direction, and mentorship to the Manufacturing Engineering team.
- Collaborate with design engineering, quality, and production teams to ensure all designs are manufacturable, efficient, and meet customer and safety requirements.
- Conduct producibility and capability analyses, integrating results into design reviews and manufacturing plans.
- Develop, design, and validate tooling, fixtures, and equipment to support production processes.
- Lead Lean and Six Sigma initiatives to reduce waste, optimize flow, and improve process consistency.
- Drive value engineering activities to enhance performance and reduce cost without compromising quality or safety.
- Develop, document, and standardize manufacturing processes and best practices.
- Lead or assist in factory testing and validation, working cross-functionally with quality and operations.
- Evaluate and integrate new technologies, materials, and automation systems to enhance manufacturing capabilities.
- Ensure compliance with safety codes, industry regulations, and company standards across all operations.
- Partner with facilities and operations teams on layout changes, equipment upgrades, and workflow improvements.
- Utilize MS Office, Adobe, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and nesting software to develop and manage production documentation.
- Prepare and maintain accurate engineering records, change documentation, and project reports.
- Perform other leadership and engineering-related duties as assigned.
Attributes:
Required Knowledge/Experience:
- Safety First – Always prioritizes a safe and compliant workplace.
- Have Humanity – Leads with empathy, respect, and integrity.
- Be Transparent – Communicates clearly and openly across departments.
- Drive Innovation – Continuously seeks better tools, processes, and ideas.
- Be Resilient – Stays calm and resourceful when challenges arise.
- Always Reliable – Consistently delivers on commitments with accuracy and accountability.
- Show Grit – Tackles complex manufacturing challenges with persistence and a solutions-first mindset.
Required Knowledge/Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- 5–10 years of experience in a manufacturing engineering role, with at least 2–3 years of leadership or project management experience.
- Proven expertise in metal fabrication, welding, systems integration, power equipment installation, and production process improvement.
- Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, and quality management principles.
- Experience designing and implementing fixtures, tooling, and production equipment.
- Familiarity with UL, NEC, OSHA, and other relevant codes and safety standards.
- Proficient in SolidWorks, AutoCAD, nesting software, and MS Office tools.
- Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to balance multiple projects, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines.
- Strong leadership presence with a collaborative, hands-on approach.
- Valid driver’s license and acceptable motor vehicle record.
- Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.
- Professional Engineering (PE) license or relevant certifications preferred.
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