Entry-Level Manufacturing Engineer
The Entry-Level Manufacturing Engineer at Confidential Client supports the development and modification of manufacturing equipment and tooling to enhance lean manufacturing processes. This role involves conducting kaizen activities, designing fixtures and machinery, implementing lean strategies to improve efficiency and reduce waste, and collaborating across teams to meet quality and cost objectives in an on-site, full-time capacity.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
You will support manufacturing engineering efforts that improve product quality, reduce cost, and increase throughput on the production floor. You'll work with cross-functional teams to design, test, and implement tooling, fixtures, and process improvements used in lean, cell-based manufacturing.
- Assist in development of manufacturing engineering specifications, special tooling, and equipment modifications.
- Support value-stream and cell-layout design to improve workflow, ergonomics, and space utilization.
- Lead and participate in kaizen events to identify waste, reduce set-up time, and implement corrective actions.
- Design or specify fixtures, jigs, and tooling; support procurement as needed.
- Create and maintain manufacturing documentation: tool/fixture drawings, setup definitions, work instructions, and SOPs.
- Test machines and systems to validate performance; troubleshoot and resolve system malfunctions.
- Prepare manufacturing/tooling cost quote packages in collaboration with Product Engineering and Marketing.
- Track and report project status and maintain records consistent with ISO standards.
What We're Looking For
The ideal candidate is an early-career mechanical/manufacturing engineer with hands-on manufacturing knowledge and strong problem-solving skills.
- Strong foundation in lean manufacturing principles and kaizen methodologies.
- Experience with CAD tools such as Pro/E (Creo), AutoCAD, or equivalent (SolidWorks experience a plus).
- Familiarity with fixture design, machining practices, and shop-floor processes.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel); experience with an ERP/Resource Management System preferred.
- Working knowledge of PLC programming and system integration is helpful but not required.
- Effective communicator who can build relationships at all levels and work well across functions.
- Self-motivated, resourceful, and eager to take on increasing responsibility.
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
- Relevant manufacturing experience, including process design/modification, fixture design, or shop-floor engineering.
Compensation & Logistics
- Salary range: $65,000 - $75,000 per year (reported by the employer).
- Employment type: Full-time, On-site.
- Location: Albemarle, NC (on-site at the client facility).
- This role will require occasional collaboration with cross-functional teams and may include plant-floor access and PPE requirements.
Why Apply via Careertakes
- Careertakes is handling this search as a third-party recruiter — we’ll present qualified candidates to our client (Confidential Client).
- Applicants may receive additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
- We screen for fit against the role and coach applicants through the process to improve match quality and speed.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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