Job Description: Manufacturing Engineer

Overview

Cragar is expanding our business operation and seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Engineer to join our precision engineering team. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on the shop floor, understands CNC machining processes deeply, and can drive improvements in manufacturing efficiency, quality, and documentation. The engineer will play a key role in optimizing production workflows & supporting design-for-manufacture initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with design and production teams to optimize processes for precision engineering.
• Lead and manage First Article submission processes, ensuring compliance with customer requirements.
• Support the preparation of First Article Inspection (FAI) reports and related approvals.
• Identify and implement improvements in manufacturing workflows to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve quality.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including work instructions, SOPs, and engineering change records.
• Support new product introduction by ensuring manufacturability and smooth transition from design to production.
• Conduct root cause analysis and corrective actions for production issues.
• Ensure compliance with internal quality standards and industry best practices.
• Provide technical guidance and training to operators and technicians on CNC processes and optimized methods.

Job Requirements

Essential Skills & Experience

• Strong hands-on experience with CNC machining processes (setup, programming, operation, troubleshooting).
• Solid knowledge of precision engineering principles and process optimization.
• Proven experience in First Article submission and First Article Inspection (FAI) processes, including documentation and customer approval workflows.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and translate them into efficient manufacturing processes.
• Experience with document control systems and maintaining accurate process documentation.
• Practical problem-solving skills with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies (preferred but not mandatory).
• Strong communication skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.

Personal Attributes

• Hands-on, proactive, and detail oriented.
• Comfortable working on the shop floor and engaging directly with machines and operators.
• Innovative mindset with a drive to improve processes and reduce inefficiencies.
• Organized and disciplined in maintaining documentation and process records.