Manufacturing Engineer III

Ruger Firearms•Hebron, KY

About The Position

This role focuses on developing and optimizing machining processes for various firearm components. The Manufacturing Engineer III will lead machining strategies on advanced CNC equipment, troubleshoot production issues, and drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. The position also involves supporting new product introductions, writing work instructions, and training production staff. Collaboration with Quality, Production, and Maintenance teams is essential, as is mentoring junior engineers.

Requirements

Experience developing and optimizing machining processes.
Proficiency in leading machining strategy on multi-spindle and multi-turret CNC lathes.
Experience selecting tooling, inserts, and cutting parameters.
Ability to write and prove out CNC programs and process changes.
Experience with root-cause analysis methods (e.g., 8D, 5 Why, fishbone diagrams).
Experience with process capability work (Cpk/Ppk), PFMEAs, control plans, and first article inspections.
Experience supporting new product introduction (NPI), including DFM reviews and equipment specification.
Experience driving continuous improvement using Lean and Six Sigma methods.
Ability to write work instructions and set-up sheets.
Experience training operators, setup techs, and Leads.
Mentoring junior engineers.
Collaboration with Quality, Production, and Maintenance teams.

Responsibilities

Develop and optimize machining processes for barrels, slides, receivers, and small precision parts, including part routings, fixturing, and work-holding.
Lead machining strategy on multi-spindle and multi-turret CNC lathes: balance operations across spindles and turrets, sequence tools, and cut cycle time.
Select tooling, inserts, and cutting parameters. Run tool-life studies and partner with tooling vendors on trials and cost reductions.
Write and prove out CNC programs and process changes. Support CAM programming and machine setups.
Troubleshoot dimensional, surface-finish, and tool-wear problems with root-cause methods such as 8D, 5 Why, and fishbone diagrams.
Lead process capability work (Cpk/Ppk), PFMEAs, control plans, and first article inspections.
Support new product introduction (NPI): review designs for manufacturability (DFM), quote cycle times, and specify and buy in new equipment.
Drive continuous improvement in scrap, OEE, setup reduction (SMED), and cost per part, using Lean and Six Sigma methods.
Write work instructions and set-up sheets, and train operators, setup techs, and Leads.
Mentor junior engineers and work closely with Quality, Production, and Maintenance.