Manufacturing Engineer

MDC Precision, LLC•Sarasota, FL

About The Position

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and supporting manufacturing processes to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality production. This role leverages strong knowledge of SolidWorks and modern manufacturing methods to drive continuous improvement, reduce costs, and support new product introductions (NPI). In addition to Manufacturing Engineering, this role will also encompass Design Engineering responsibilities. The Design Engineer will be responsible for developing, modeling, and improving ceramic products and components using SolidWorks and other engineering tools. This role involves close collaboration with production, quality, and R&D teams to ensure that designs meet performance, manufacturability, and cost requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
5+ years of experience in a manufacturing or production engineering environment.
Proficiency in SolidWorks (part modeling, assemblies, drawings, GD&T).
Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
Experience with process validation, statistical analysis, and root-cause problem solving.
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and quality standards.
Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience with CNC machining, sheet metal, plastics, or other production-specific processes.
Knowledge of ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Epicor, Oracle, etc.).
Familiarity with automation, robotics, or programmable equipment.
Understanding of Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt a plus).

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
Conduct time studies, capacity analysis, and workflow mapping to identify improvement opportunities.
Create and maintain process documentation, including work instructions, SOPs, PFMEAs, and control plans.
Use SolidWorks to create and update 3D models, assemblies, and technical drawings.
Design jigs, fixtures, and tooling to support manufacturing and assembly operations.
Collaborate with product design engineers to ensure manufacturability (DFM/DFA).
Lead Lean Manufacturing initiatives such as 5S, Kaizen, value stream mapping, and waste reduction.
Implement root-cause analysis using tools like 8D, Fishbone, and 5 Whys.
Drive cost-reduction projects through design improvements, process changes, and automation opportunities.
Provide daily engineering support to operations, troubleshooting production issues and reducing downtime.
Train operators and technicians on new processes, tools, and equipment.
Support equipment validation, maintenance planning, and line layout modifications.
Partner with Quality Engineering to resolve non-conformances and implement corrective actions.
Ensure all manufacturing processes meet safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.
Maintain documentation accuracy and ensure compliance with ISO or industry-specific standards.
Create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings of ceramic parts using SolidWorks.
Develop prototypes and validate product designs through testing and analysis.
Perform tolerance stack-up & geometric dimensioning (GD&T) to ensure precision.
Translate design concepts into manufacturing-ready components.
Work closely with production teams on processes such as: Slip casting, Pressing, Extrusion, Injection molding, Glazing and kiln firing.
Optimize designs to reduce tooling complexity and production time.
Select appropriate ceramic materials based on application, performance, and thermal/mechanical requirements.
Support process improvements to reduce defects, enhance strength, and improve consistency.
Generate engineering documentation including BOMs, technical drawings, and work instructions.
Ensure designs meet quality, safety, and industry standards.
Work with R&D on new product development.
Collaborate with quality engineering to resolve design or manufacturing issues.
Provide technical support to suppliers and customers as required.