Manufacturing Engineer

Hartzell Propeller • Piqua, OH

41d

About The Position

Hartzell Propeller LLC is an engineering and manufacturing company that designs, develops, tests, manufactures, and supports aluminum and composite propeller systems for aircraft ranging from general aviation to military applications. The posting describes an experienced CNC Programmer / Fixture & Mold Maker who will join the manufacturing team and program, set up, and machine complex components while supporting tooling design, mold construction, and process improvement.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least 5 years of CNC programming and precision machining experience in a mold, fixture, or toolmaking environment.
• Advanced proficiency with CAM software such as Esprit or similar.
• Strong knowledge of machining practices, cutting tools, feeds and speeds, workholding, and toolpath optimization.
• Experience machining hardened tool steels, aluminum, stainless steel, and engineering plastics.
• Ability to read blueprints and CAD models and apply GD&T principles.
• Experience with fixture building, mold making, and precision tool assembly.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to producing precision components.
• Adaptability when work tasks, environments, structures, processes, requirements, or cultures change.
• Ability to assimilate and apply new job-related information in a timely manner.
• Ability to contribute as a team member and help the team complete its goals.
• Proactive approach to taking action and accomplishing objectives.
• Effective management of time and resources to complete work efficiently.
• Quality orientation, including careful consideration of all aspects of work and accurate checking of processes and tasks.

Nice To Haves

• Experience programming 3-axis and 5-axis CNC machining centers.
• Familiarity with manual machining equipment.
• CAD/CAM modeling and fixture design experience.
• High-speed machining and hard milling experience.
• Knowledge of mold construction, mold repair, and mold maintenance.
• Experience with process optimization, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement.
• Associate of Applied Science degree in Manufacturing or Mechanical Engineering.

Responsibilities

• Create and optimize CNC programs for complex mold components, fixtures, tooling, and precision-machined parts using CAM software.
• Set up and operate CNC machining centers to produce high-quality components with minimal supervision.
• Machine mold bases, cores, cavities, inserts, fixture components, and custom tooling to tight tolerances.
• Select tooling, workholding, cutting parameters, and machining strategies to maximize efficiency and quality.
• Read and interpret blueprints, CAD models, and engineering drawings.
• Collaborate with engineering to develop machining processes for new products, molds, and fixtures.
• Build, assemble, repair, and modify production fixtures and molds as required.
• Troubleshoot machining and tooling issues and implement process improvements to reduce cycle times and improve quality.
• Verify part dimensions using precision measuring equipment, including micrometers, bore gauges, indicators, height gauges, and CMMs when applicable.
• Maintain organized CNC programs, setup documentation, tooling libraries, and machining standards.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, and cost reduction.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Mentor machinists and assist with programming best practices.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Life insurance
• 401(k) plans with employer match
• Company-provided Growth Participation Units (GPU), which offer employees potential future financial rewards tied to business growth
• Professional growth and development opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED