Understanding of guitar design's musical, mathematical, and structural aspects.
Proficient in CAD/CAM software with 3+ years of experience.
3+ years hands-on CNC mill and router experience; Fadal and Haas preferred.
Graduate of a Luthier Program with 5 years of guitar building experience.
Demonstrated project management and leadership abilities.
Experience with Continuous Improvement methodologies is a plus.
Responsibilities
Develop and implement processes and solutions for production from prototype designs.
Identify opportunities for improvement in guitar manufacturing processes.
Document product specifications for both historic and new guitar models.
Build prototypes and master parts to enhance product offerings.
Troubleshoot production and quality issues, providing effective solutions.
Support maintenance and troubleshooting of CNC machinery.
Train operators on CNC and automated machinery, developing instructional documentation.
Benefits
Opportunity to work in a creative and fast-paced environment at a renowned guitar manufacturer.
Engage in innovative engineering practices that directly impact product quality.
Collaborative workplace culture focused on teamwork and continuous improvement.
Access to state-of-the-art machinery and technology in guitar manufacturing.
Full Job Description
Job Summary
The Senior Manufacturing Engineer will utilize their combined knowledge of guitar building, wood manufacturing, and best practices Engineering to improve safety, drive process, product, and quality improvements, reduce delivery time, and increase production capacity in the Gibson Custom Shop.
Essential Functions
The primary responsibilities will include:
Develop processes, fixturing, CNC programs, and automated solutions to transfer prototype product designs into production.
Identify and implement improvement activities related to guitar manufacturing.
Develop and Document product specifications and build criteria for Historic and New product.
Build prototypes and master parts for new products and product improvement.
Troubleshoot and develop solutions for quality and production issues.
Support maintenance and troubleshooting on CNC and other automated machinery
Develop documentation and provide operator training for CNC and automated machinery.
Perform other tasks within their area of expertise, as required.
Required Skills/Abilities
Understanding of the musical, mathematical, and structural components of guitar design.
Computer and CAD/CAM skills
Familiar with CNC mills and routers, PLEK stations, and other automated equipment
High level of self-motivation
Strong organizational skills
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Solutions oriented approach to challenges/issues
Outstanding time management skillset with the ability to prioritize without direct supervision
Teamwork and project management skills combined with ability to work as part of a team
Required Education and Experience
Formal Engineering Studies, at Associate or bachelor's level (preferred).
Graduate of Luthier Program and 5 years of guitar building experience.
Project Management and Leadership experience desirable.
CI Studies and experience desirable.
Proficiency in MS word, excel and power point.
Essential Knowledge
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Project management skills combined with ability to work as part of a team
Personal Qualities
Results oriented and driven, with a track record for delivering to plan
Flexibility to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. Able to proactively question and challenge to prioritize and identify solutions in timely manner
Clear and logical thinker
Relish working in a company with a diverse and fast paced environment
About Gibson Guitar Corporation
Gibson Guitar Corporation is a manufacturer of guitars, other musical instruments, and consumer and professional electronics. The company was founded in 1902 and is headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee. Gibson is known for its iconic guitars, including the Les Paul, SG, and Flying V. The company has a long history of innovation and has been a major influence on the development of rock and roll music. Gibson has faced financial difficulties in recent years and filed for bankruptcy in 2018. The company emerged from bankruptcy in 2019 and is now privately held.
