Position Summary: The Manufacturing Engineer – Fabrication & Finishing is responsible for the design, setup, optimization, and ongoing support of fabrication and finishing processes within the manufacturing facility. This role focuses on non-welding production equipment, including but not limited to tube forming and branching systems (T-Drills), tube cutting lasers, part cleaning and washing systems, and passivation or surface treatment processes. The position plays a critical role in facility startup, equipment commissioning, and continuous improvement to ensure safe, repeatable, and efficient production operations. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic manufacturing environment and be passionate about making their mark on a new facility in a growing division. Learn more at www.steelobrien.com. Primary Job Duties:
Fabrication Finishing Equipment Ownership - Lead the layout, setup, and commissioning of fabrication and finishing equipment, including T-Drills, tube cutting lasers, deburring systems, parts washers, and passivation systems.
- Support selection, procurement, installation, and validation of production equipment.
- Coordinate with Facilities, Engineering, and EHS teams to ensure proper utilities, ventilation, drainage, chemical handling, and safety systems.
Manufacturing Engineering s Process Development - Develop, document, and optimize fabrication and finishing processes to support production requirements.
- Create and maintain work instructions, standard work, and process documentation for assigned equipment and processes.
- Establish process parameters, quality controls, and inspection points to ensure repeatability and product quality.
- Support new product introductions (NPI) by developing production-ready fabrication and finishing processes.
Laser s Automated Equipment Support - Support setup, programming coordination, and optimization of tube cutting laser systems.
- Collaborate with automation vendors and integrators during equipment commissioning and upgrades.
- Optimize material flow, fixturing, and part handling to support automated equipment performance.
Cleaning, Passivation s Surface Treatment
- Own part cleaning, washing, and passivation processes to ensure compliance with quality and customer requirements.
- Develop process controls for chemical concentration, temperature, cycle time, and rinse effectiveness.
- Partner with Quality and EHS teams to ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and wastewater.
Production Support s Troubleshooting - Provide hands-on support to production for fabrication and finishing-related issues.
- Troubleshoot equipment performance, process variability, and quality issues.
- Collaborate with Maintenance to improve equipment reliability and uptime.
Continuous Improvement - Analyze performance data including cycle time, yield, scrap, rework, and equipment uptime.
- Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, cost, and throughput.
- Support Lean initiatives such as 5S, SMED, standard work, and mistake-proofing (poka- yoke).
Cross-Functional Collaboration - Work closely with Quality, Industrial Engineering, Automation, Maintenance, and Operations teams.
- Support layout changes, equipment relocations, and facility expansions related to fabrication and finishing processes.
Qualifications:
Required - Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical field (or equivalent experience).
- 3–7+ years of experience in fabrication, machining, or finishing operations in a manufacturing environment.
- Hands-on experience with fabrication equipment such as tube lasers, forming systems, or industrial washers.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and process documentation.
- Strong problem-solving and process optimization skills.
Preferred - Experience with passivation, chemical cleaning, or surface treatment processes.
- Experience supporting greenfield facility startups or major equipment installations.
- Familiarity with laser cutting technology and automation.
- Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification.
Key Competencies - Strong manufacturing process ownership
- Equipment commissioning and startup execution
- Data-driven problem solving
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Safety and compliance awareness
- Clear technical documentation and communication
Performance Metrics
- Successful commissioning and ramp-up of fabrication and finishing equipment
- Process stability and repeatability
- Reduction in scrap, rework, and downtime
- Throughput and cycle time improvements
- On-time support of production and NPI timelines
Culture: - Foster a collaborative and positive work environment, ensuring clear and respectful communication across all levels of the organization
- Actively drive change by encouraging and implementing cross-functional improvements that enhance operational efficiency and product quality
- Respectfully listen to concerns and ideas brought to your attention
- Respect confidentiality
- Embody our values of Integrity, Trust, Creativity and Courage, Teamwork, and Excellence
Working Conditions: - Fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Requires standing, walking, and lifting for extended periods.
- May involve exposure to noise and varying temperatures.
- Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs.
???????Attendance Requirements:Attendance on a regular, consistent basis is mandatory. Accommodations:Essential functions of this position may include but are not limited to lifting, reaching, bending, stooping, twisting, kneeling, crouching, carrying objects, ascending/descending stairs and commuting to work location. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions under the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) or other state or federal law, you may request the accommodations. Salary Range: $85K - $105K
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