Manufacturing Engineer

Apogee Enterprises, Inc. • Louisville, KY

21d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Manufacturing Engineer is a key member of the operations and engineering team, responsible for supporting production performance through equipment optimization, manufacturing improvements, and advanced technical problem-solving. This role operates with a moderate level of independence, owning both production troubleshooting efforts and engineering projects from identification through implementation. This position is primarily focused on manufacturing execution, equipment performance, and day-to-day production support, requiring a hands-on presence on the plant floor and close collaboration with operations and maintenance teams. The role supports two manufacturing facilities located approximately 20 minutes apart.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, or related field) or equivalent experience.
• 3–5+ years of experience in a hands-on manufacturing environment.
• Experience programming CNC 3-axis machines (routers preferred), utilizing MasterCAM for toolpath programming and machine optimization.
• Exposure to or experience with additional CNC equipment (e.g., laser cutters or similar systems) and associated CAM software.
• Experience with CAD design (SolidWorks and/or AutoCAD) for tooling or equipment modifications.
• Strong troubleshooting experience with manufacturing equipment and systems.
• Proven ability to take ownership of problems and drive solutions through implementation.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with PLC systems and basic troubleshooting or programming
• Experience with robotic automation systems (KUKA strongly preferred)
• Familiarity with mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and basic electrical systems
• Experience supporting capital equipment projects
• Proficiency with MS Project or equivalent project management applications.
• Hands on experience with configuration management in ERP systems (Epicor preferred).
• Lean Manufacturing experience

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on engineering support to production, troubleshooting equipment and manufacturing issues to minimize downtime
• Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective actions related to safety, quality, and equipment performance
• Support production during downtime events and help restore operations safely and efficiently
• Work closely with production, maintenance, and leadership to maintain stable and efficient operations
• Lead and support initiatives to improve throughput, uptime, scrap reduction, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)
• Analyze production data to identify improvement opportunities in cycle time, efficiency, and cost
• Implement practical, floor-driven improvements that simplify processes and improve operator effectiveness
• Develop and maintain standard work, work instructions, and manufacturing documentation
• Support Lean Manufacturing initiatives focused on waste reduction and flow
• Design and develop fixtures, jigs, and equipment modifications using SolidWorks and/or AutoCAD
• Program, troubleshoot, and optimize CNC routers (3-axis), with preference for MasterCAM experience
• Utilize 3D printing to prototype and implement production solutions
• Troubleshoot and improve manufacturing equipment including mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems
• Support installation, commissioning, and upgrades of manufacturing equipment
• Coordinate with vendors and suppliers for equipment support, troubleshooting, and improvements
• Support and troubleshoot PLC-controlled equipment (Allen-Bladley preferred; Siemens a plus)
• Work with controls or automation resources to improve machine reliability and performance
• Support and optimize robotic cells (KUKA preferred; ABB/Fanuc experience beneficial)
• Assist in planning and executing capital projects including equipment selection, installation, and startup
• Manage multiple projects while maintaining alignment with production priorities
• Communicate project progress, risks, and outcomes to stakeholders
• Ensure equipment and processes meet safety standards and company policies
• Partner with Quality to support corrective actions related to manufacturing issues
• Participate in cross-site initiatives to maintain consistency between facilities
• Strategic application of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies to drive business outcomes, enhance decision-making, and improve operational efficiency.

Benefits

• Competitive Benefits Package for employees and their dependents (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability)
• Incentive Plans
• 401(k) with employer contribution and match
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan with employer match
• Paid Time Off (Vacation and Sick Time)
• Paid Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Wellness Program
• Training and Career Progression

What This Job Offers

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