Manufacturing Engineer II - Precision Machining Cell

Woodward, Inc.•Zeeland, MI

1d•$77,000 - $123,000

About The Position

The Manufacturing Engineer II for the Precision Machining Cell will be responsible for the development, optimization, and continuous improvement of Swiss machining operations and supporting processes. This role requires hands-on collaboration with machinists, technicians, maintenance teams, and cross-functional stakeholders to drive operational excellence. The position also involves executing cell growth initiatives, implementing automation strategies, and maintaining quality standards for precision components.

Requirements

4 Year Bachelors BS OR 8+ years equivalent experience
This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). All applicants must be U.S. Persons within the meaning of the ITAR and EAR, or eligible to obtain all required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The ITAR defines a U.S. Person as a U.S. citizen or national, lawful permanent resident (i.e., 'Green Card holder'), or a protected person (e.g., asylee, or refugee).

Nice To Haves

Productivity Improvements: Analyzes production process data to identify bottlenecks, waste, and inefficiencies. Implements small process changes and recommends improvements for throughput, reduce rework, and enhance productivity.
Data Analysis: Analyze production data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and bottlenecks using tools like Pareto charts and process control charts.
Conducting Cost Analysis and Optimization: Analyze manufacturing costs by evaluating material waste, labor efficiency, and equipment utilization. Perform detailed cost-benefit analyses to identify opportunities for cost savings and waste reduction.
Lean Manufacturing: Implement Lean tools, such as Kaizen and Value Stream Mapping, for localized process improvements.
Design for Manufacturability & Assembly: Apply DFMA principles to improve product manufacturability and assembly. Analyze designs for material selection, part count reduction, and ease of assembly, while collaborating with cross-functional teams to refine designs.
Equipment: Assists in selecting equipment for specific operations, preparing purchase requests, and evaluating vendor proposals for return on investment and in alignment with capital equipment plans. Troubleshoots moderately complex equipment issues and supports maintenance teams to improve reliability
Mentorship: Share foundational knowledge with peers and newer hires. Collaborate with others to support mutual learning and contribute to a positive team environment.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking : Analyze production problems using structured methodologies (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams) to identify root causes.
Knowledge of APQP Tools and Systems: Applies APQP tools to improve process stability and reliability. Supports tooling/fixturing refinements and analyzes process capability metrics (e.g., Cpk) to reduce variability and enhance performance.
Communication and Collaboration Skills: Coordinate with cross-functional teams to align goals and share updates on manufacturing improvements.

Responsibilities

Monitor production processes and identify inefficiencies through technical analysis.
Implement small-scale process improvements, train operators on SOPs, and manage hardware disposition by evaluating defective or non-conforming hardware for repair, rework, or replacement.
Develop and maintain manufacturing processes for assigned areas, ensuring accuracy and consistency in workflows.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to refine process steps and improve production efficiency.
Analyze process capability using statistical tools like SPC, identifying opportunities for improvement and driving small-scale enhancements.
Create and refine production documentation to ensure alignment with manufacturing standards and compliance requirements.
Begin transitioning documentation to digital platforms for improved accuracy, accessibility, and collaboration.
Manage small-scale manufacturing projects, ensuring timelines, budgets, and deliverables are met under supervision.

Benefits

All members included in annual cash bonus opportunity.
401(k) match (4.5%)
Annual Woodward stock contribution (5%)
Tuition reimbursement and Training/Professional Development opportunities for all members
12 paid holidays, including floating holidays.
Industry leading medical, dental, and vision Insurance upon date of hire
Vacation / Sick Time / Vacation Buy-up / Short Term Disability / Bereavement leave.
Paid parental leave.
Adoption Assistance
Employee Assistance Program, including mental health benefits.
Member Life & AD&D / Long Term Disability / Member Optional Life
Member referral bonus
Spouse / Child Optional Life / Optional AD&D / Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending
Voluntary benefits, including: Home / Auto Insurance discounts Whole Life Insurance / Critical Illness Insurance / Legal Assistance / Military Leave