Manufacturing Engineer

Apply direct at https://firstmanufacturing.bamboohr.com/careers/33?source=aWQ9MjQ%3D

We’re looking for a talented and experienced Manufacturing Engineer- Machining Focus to join our team in southeastern South Dakota and play a critical role in overseeing, improving, and optimizing machining and manufacturing processes. If you're passionate about efficiency, quality, and working alongside a highly skilled team of machinists and engineers, this is the role for you.

What You'll Do

• Evaluate existing machining and manufacturing processes to identify improvement opportunities. Develop and implement new machining processes, tooling, fixtures, and optimized production layouts.
• Design efficient process flows, sequences of operations, and detailed work instructions.
• Troubleshoot production issues, determine root causes, and implement corrective actions.
• Develop strategies to reduce cost, improve quality, and ensure sustainability in manufacturing.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, regulatory requirements, and quality assurance guidelines.
• Support the introduction of new capital equipment and technologies into production.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with machinists, designers, quality engineers, and test teams.
• Maintain technical documentation, process reports, and research logs.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years in CNC programming and process engineering, preferably in aerospace or other high-precision industries.
• Strong G-code skills.
• Ability to program and optimize 5-axis mills, Multi-axis lathes, Swiss Machines and Horizontal and Vertical Machining Centers.
• Expertise in developing cutting strategies for aluminum, steel and stainless steels.
• Strong ability to interpret engineering drawings, tolerances, and specifications, and to adapt processes to floor conditions.
• Experience in establishing in-process and final inspection points; ability to operate CMMs and precision gauges.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; effective time management; clear cross-functional communication.

Preferred Skills

• GibbsCAM, WinCNC, and other CAM platforms
• Citizen Swiss, Makino HMC, Haas VMC, Mori Seiki, Okuma machines
• SolidWorks for 3D modeling and fixture design
• Hydraulic work holding systems
• Familiarity with ERP systems, data analysis tools, and process tracking
• Background in lean manufacturing, six sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies

What Makes You a Great Fit

• You’re a high-level technical thinker who can balance hands-on production support with strategic process development. You thrive in a collaborative environment, but you’re also capable of driving independent initiatives from concept through implementation.

Benefits & Perks

• Two medical plan options
• Dental & vision coverage
• Short-term & long-term disability
• Life insurance
• HSA with employer contribution
• 3% SIMPLE IRA match
• Voluntary benefits (Aflac, etc.)
• Accrued PTO starting on day one
• Paid Holidays
• Flexible work schedule
• A team-focused, growth-oriented culture