Ascentec Engineering is hiring a Manufacturing Engineer II to serve as an experienced technical contributor responsible for independently managing manufacturing processes, leading moderate-complexity NPI projects, and providing technical guidance to junior engineers. This role demonstrates proven capability in process optimization, cost reduction initiatives, and cross-functional collaboration while developing toward advanced technical leadership and strategic process development. The position requires solid hands-on machining knowledge, the ability to analyze engineering drawings for manufacturability, and demonstrated competence in project management.
This position is on-site (not remote/not hybrid) at our Tualatin headquarters and is not eligible for Visa sponsorship or transfer of Visa sponsorship.
Requirements
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: MANUFACTURING PROCESS OWNERSHIP & OPTIMIZATION Process Development & Refinement: - Independently develop and implement manufacturing processes for moderate-complexity components and assemblies
- Lead NPI projects from concept through full production transition with minimal oversight
- Optimize existing processes to improve cycle time, yield, and cost-effectiveness
- Design and validate manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and work-holding solutions
- Conduct time studies and establish standard work documentation for production operations
Advanced Problem-Solving: - Lead root cause analysis investigations for quality escapes and process failures
- Develop and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) with measurable effectiveness
- Apply statistical methods (DOE, capability studies) to optimize process parameters
- Troubleshoot complex machining issues involving multi-axis operations, tight tolerances, and difficult materials
- Identify and eliminate sources of variation in manufacturing processes
Technical Documentation: - Create comprehensive work instructions, process maps, and control plans
- Develop and maintain process FMEA documentation
- Establish process validation protocols and acceptance criteria
- Document lessons learned and contribute to knowledge base development
MANUFACTURING COST MANAGEMENT & VALUE ENGINEERING Cost Estimation & Analysis: - Develop detailed manufacturing cost estimates for new products and process changes
- Conduct make-vs-buy analysis with supporting financial justification
- Identify cost reduction opportunities through process improvement and design optimization
- Track and report cost savings achieved through engineering initiative
Value Engineering Leadership: - Collaborate with design engineering to optimize product manufacturability
- Propose alternative materials, processes, or manufacturing approaches to reduce costs
- Evaluate emerging manufacturing technologies for potential cost or quality benefits
- Balance cost objectives with quality, delivery, and performance requirements
TECHNICAL MENTORSHIP & TEAM DEVELOPMENT Peer & Junior Engineer Support: - Provide technical guidance and mentorship to Manufacturing Engineer I team members
- Review and approve work instructions and process documentation prepared by junior engineers
- Serve as subject matter expert for specific manufacturing processes or technologies
- Lead knowledge-sharing sessions on advanced manufacturing techniques
Training Development: - Develop and deliver training materials for production personnel on new processes
- Create visual aids, training videos, and quick-reference guides
- Assess training effectiveness and implement improvements
PROJECT MANAGEMENT & CROSS-FUNCTIONAL LEADERSHIP NPI Project Leadership: - Manage NPI projects involving 3-5 concurrent work streams with interdependencies
- Develop project plans with clear milestones, resource requirements, and success criteria
- Coordinate cross-functional activities across engineering, quality, supply chain, and production
- Proactively identify and mitigate project risks
- Report project status to stakeholders with data-driven analysis
Stakeholder Management: - Interface with suppliers on technical process development and problem resolution
- Support customer technical reviews and process qualification activities (with PM coordination)
- Collaborate with quality engineering on inspection methods and acceptance criteria
- Partner with production supervision to implement process improvements
QUALITY SYSTEMS & CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT Quality System Contribution: - Participate in internal and external quality audits as process owner
- Lead closure of audit findings related to manufacturing processes
- Ensure processes comply with ISO9001, AS9100, and customer-specific requirements
- Maintain process validation and control documentation per quality system requirements
Advanced Quality Tools: - Apply SPC techniques to monitor process capability and stability
- Conduct measurement system analysis (GR&R) studies
- Implement poka-yoke (error-proofing) solutions
- Develop process control plans with appropriate reaction plans
Continuous Improvement Leadership: - Lead Lean Six Sigma projects targeting specific operational metrics
- Facilitate kaizen events and value stream mapping activities
- Implement 5S workplace organization initiatives
- Track and report improvement project results with validated savings
JOB QUALIFICATIONS / EXPERIENCE AND TECHNICAL SKILLS: Education & Experience: - Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Industrial Engineering
- 3-5 years of manufacturing engineering experience in precision machining environment
- Demonstrated experience leading NPI projects from design through production
- Experience with CNC programming, setup, troubleshooting, and process optimization
Technical Expertise: - Intermediate to Advanced Machining Knowledge: Solid understanding of CNC machining operations, multi-axis programming, tooling selection, feeds/speeds optimization, and setup procedures
- Manufacturing Cost Estimation: Ability to analyze engineering drawings and develop accurate manufacturing cost estimates with cycle time analysis
- ERP Systems: Experience with Epicor ERP or similar manufacturing systems for process planning, costing, and project management
- Quality Systems Knowledge: Familiarity with ISO9001 and AS9100 standards, statistical process control, and CAPA methodologies
- Process Improvement: Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt certification preferred)
Leadership & Communication: - Proven ability to manage multiple projects independently with minimal supervision
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with structured approach to root cause analysis
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences
- Demonstrated ability to mentor junior engineers and contribute to team development
- Effective collaboration skills with cross-functional teams including design, quality, and production
PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS: - Self-starter / Self-motivated / Flexible / Detail oriented
- Reliable and dependable
- Positive customer-focused attitude
- Enjoy fast-paced and rapidly changing environment
- Honest with good integrity
- Professional demeanor and respectful to people in all situations
- Flexible and willing to help others as needs and tasks change often
- Team player
WORKING CONDITIONS: - Position requires significant time on the production floor conducting process analysis, troubleshooting, and team collaboration
- Office-based work for project management, cost analysis, documentation, and meetings
- Occasional travel to supplier facilities or customer sites (
- May require flexibility for project deadlines and production support requirements
- Physical requirements include walking, standing, and lifting up to 35 lbs in manufacturing environment
COMPENSATION / BENEFITS: - Salary range: $80,000 - $105,000 DOE with performance-based annual review
- Performance bonus program based on individual and company performance metrics
- Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with generous company matching contribution
- Professional development support including certification reimbursement and conference attendance
- Paid time off / Paid holidays
- Continuing education opportunities and tuition reimbursement program
Other Requirements:Applicant must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check prior to employment.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Salary Description
$80,000 to $105,000 per year DOE
