Manufacturing Engineer
CNC Machining & Machine Assembly
Location: Elgin, IL
Reports To: Operations Manager
Compensation: $70,000 – $100,000 (Based on Experience)
Visa Sponsorship: Not available
Position Overview
Our client is seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Engineer to support CNC machining operations and CNC lathe assembly processes. This role plays a key part in improving production efficiency, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and standardizing processes in support of ISO 9001.
The ideal candidate enjoys working directly with machining centers and assembly teams, solving real production challenges, and leading process improvements that create measurable impact.
Key Responsibilities
1. Support day-to-day CNC machining and machine assembly operations
2. Develop and optimize CNC programs, routings, tooling, and fixtures
3. Improve manufacturing processes to enhance quality, efficiency, and cost performance
4. Lead Lean initiatives including 5S, Standard Work, DMAIC, and material flow improvements
5. Analyze cycle times, workflow, and equipment layout to improve throughput
6. Drive cost reduction and production improvement initiatives
7. Coordinate engineering changes across engineering, assembly, and quality teams
8. Support new product introductions from Product Engineering to Manufacturing
9. Develop and maintain manufacturing documentation in support of ISO 9001
10. Train and guide technicians on improved processes and best practices
11. Maintain accurate manufacturing data within ERP systems
Education
12. Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering Technology required
(Related degree and/or equivalent experience considered)
13. Six Sigma certification or training preferred
Experience & Technical Qualifications
14. Minimum 3 years of CAD/CAM experience (Mastercam, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, SmartCam, or similar)
15. Strong CNC programming experience required
16. 3–5 years of experience in precision machining and/or CNC machine assembly preferred
17. Experience leading process improvement initiatives
18. Project management capability
19. ERP experience preferred (JD Edwards a plus)
20. Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and lean methodologies
21. Excellent written and verbal communication skills
22. Demonstrated ability to influence and lead in a production environment
Compensation & Benefits
23. Competitive base salary ($70,000 – $100,000 DOE)
24. Health insurance
25. 401(k)
26. Paid vacation and holidays
27. Life insurance
28. Long-term disability