Manufacturing Engineer II - Precision Machining Cell

Woodward L'Orange • Zeeland, MI

3d • Onsite

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

• Analyzes production process data to identify bottlenecks, waste, and inefficiencies.
• Implements small process changes and recommends improvements for throughput, reduce rework, and enhance productivity.
• Analyze production data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and bottlenecks using tools like Pareto charts and process control charts.
• 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.
• Implement Lean tools, such as Kaizen and Value Stream Mapping, for localized process improvements.
• 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.
• 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
• Share foundational knowledge with peers and newer hires.
• Collaborate with others to support mutual learning and contribute to a positive team environment.
• Analyze production problems using structured methodologies (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams) to identify root causes.
• 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.
• 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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level