Job Posting TitleWeld Manufacturing Engineer
Job Description SummaryDauch is seeking a Weld Manufacturing Engineer to join our team in Newton, North Carolina. This fully onsite role is critical in supporting and improving welding operations in a high-volume automotive manufacturing environment. This role focuses on process stability, quality, throughput, and cost efficiency while ensuring compliance with automotive standards. The engineer will play a key role in launching new programs, optimizing existing welding processes, and supporting automated and robotic welding systems.
The ideal candidate is a hands-on, solutions-oriented engineer with strong welding and automation expertise, a passion for continuous improvement, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced automotive manufacturing environment. This individual is equally comfortable troubleshooting on the plant floor as they are leading process improvements and supporting new program launches. Preferred qualifications include Tier 1 automotive supplier experience, strong knowledge of laser welding processes, and CAD experience (Inventor/Creo).
Job Description:- Develops, implements, and optimizes laser welding processes for production.
- Supports daily manufacturing operations by troubleshooting weld-related issues and minimizing downtime.
- Establishes and maintains process parameters, work instructions, and standardized operating procedures.
- Leads root cause analysis and corrective actions for weld defects, quality issues, and equipment failures.
- Supports new product launches, including process design, equipment validation, APQP deliverables, PFMEA, and control plans.
- Works closely with Quality to ensure compliance with IATF 16949 and customer-specific requirements.
- Analyzes production data (scrap, rework, downtime, cycle time) to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Improves welding efficiency, including cycle time reduction and OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).
- Assists in specifying, installing, and commissioning new welding equipment, tooling, and automation systems.
- Provides technical support and training to operators, technicians, and maintenance personnel.
- Collaborates with suppliers, integrators, and customers on weld process-related issues.
- All other duties as assigned.
Required Skills and Education- Bachelor's Degree in Welding Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field, or equivalent experience.
- 1-2+ years of experience in Welding or Manufacturing Engineering in an automotive or high-volume production environment.
- Demonstrated experience supporting production welding operations and new program launches.
- Hands-on experience with robotic welding systems (Fanuc, ABB, KUKA, or similar).
- Understanding of weld quality standards, inspection methods, and destructive/non-destructive testing.
- Experience with PLC-controlled equipment and automated production lines.
- Knowledge of metallurgy, weld joint design, and fixture/tooling concepts.
- Familiarity with APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans, and SPC.
- Proficiency in problem-solving methodologies (8D, 5 Why, Fishbone).
- Ability to analyze and interpret production and quality data.
