Senior Manufacturing Engineer (NPI)We are looking for an aggressively forward-thinking and passionate Sr. Manufacturing Engineer (NPI) to join a team dedicated and committed to implementing world-class manufacturing methods and processes, including collaborative robotics, unattended machining, and custom design solutions. The Manufacturing Engineer (NPI) will be responsible for launching new products into production with a focus on manufacturability, cost effectiveness, and compliance with industry and customer requirements. To accomplish this, they will have to work cross-functionally with design, quality, and production teams. This role bridges the gap between design engineering and production to ensure there are smooth transitions from prototype to full-rate manufacturing.
In this role, you will typically:- Act as manufacturing lead on NPI programs from concept through production handoff.
- Collaborate with design engineering to influence designs for manufacturability and cost reduction.
- Develop manufacturing process plans, work instructions, and standard operating procedures for new
products. - Specify tools, fixtures, equipment, and methods needed to manufacture new products
efficiently/consistently. - Lead or support PFMEAs (Process Failure Modes and Effects Analysis), process capability studies, and risk
mitigation plans for new processes. - Coordinate pilot builds and first article inspections by working closely with production and quality teams.
- Establish process controls, routings, and BOMs within the ERP/MRP system.
- Drive continuous improvement activities during and after NPU launches to reduce cycle times, scrap, and
rework. - Support supplier development and readiness for outsourced or build-to-print components as needed.
- Support machinists during production by troubleshooting technical issues and addressing process variability.
- Ensure compliance with AS9100, ITAR, and customer-specific quality standards.
- Participate in customer reviews, technical readiness reviews, and internal program meetings.
- Actively participates in EHS activities such as area inspections, safety assessments, team meetings, accident investigations and procedure development.
- Brings unsafe conditions to management's attention or corrects as able.
- Performs other duties as may be assigned.
We require:- Bachelor's Degree in Manufacturing, Industrial or Mechanical Engineering from an Accredited university or
college - 5 years relevant experience working in a manufacturing environment.
- Working knowledge of manufacturing processes, such as machining assembly, and special processes.
- Basic understanding of statistical analysis.
- Experience reading blueprints.
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems for BOM and routing creation.
- Authorization to work in the US.
Eligibility Requirements:This role is restricted to U.S. persons (i.e., U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and other protected individuals under the Immigration and Naturalization Act, 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)) due to access to export-controlled technology. Whippany Actuation Systems will require proof of status before employment.
We would really like to see:- Proficiency with CREO, Auto CAD, SolidWorks, etc. (CAD software).
- Experience with Windchill (PLM software).
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Prior experience and/or certification with Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma.
- Familiarity with supplier onboarding or manufacturing readiness assessment for new parts.
- Experience with CNC machining, assembly fixturing, or tooling development.
- Exposure to configuration management and engineering change processes.
- Bias for action. Ability to spontaneously recognize problems and opportunities. Ability to drive problem resolution and flow through to completions.
- Ability to analyze problems, identify root causes and provide corrective solutions.
- Ability to handle diverse activities simultaneously.
- Creative problem solver who makes solid decisions driven by metrics.
- Willing to own the process/problem through to completion.
- Able to work in a team environment to achieve the desired results.
- Communicates effectively both orally and in writing.
- Fully proficient with Microsoft Office Suite including Intermediate Excel.
Compensation and Benefits:The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $110,000 to $135,000 per year. Final pay determinations will depend on various factors, including, but not limited to, experience level, knowledge, skills, and abilities. If hired, the employee will be in an "at-will position."
At Whippany Actuation Systems, we believe that our success can only be credited to the hard work and dedication of our employees. To support our employees, we offer a variety of benefit options so they can choose the coverage based on what is important to their unique lifestyle. These include medical, dental, vision, ID protection, legal insurance, pet insurance, tuition assistance program, and an employee assistance program. In addition, we provide 401K with immediate company match, life insurance, AD&D coverage, and short- and long-term disability benefits. Lastly, active employees are eligible for generous paid time off including 12 paid holidays, vacation, and sick/personal time.
For more information and to apply, please visit our website @ www.whipactsys.com/careers
