Nelson Irrigation Corporation designs and manufactures innovative sprinklers and irrigation equipment used worldwide in center pivot, solid set, and drip irrigation systems across field crops, row crops, orchards, and vineyards. Beyond irrigation, Nelson products support crop cooling, frost protection, dust control, and wastewater applications. Headquartered in Walla Walla, WA, Nelson Irrigation is committed to delivering the "right tool for the job" for growers globally.
The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety. This role works cross-functionally with product design engineers, Quality Assurance, and operations teams to ensure seamless product launches and continuous process improvement. This is a 40 hour per week in-person position.
Process Development & Optimization
• Design and implement automated manufacturing processes for new and existing products.
• Independently identify bottlenecks and insufficiencies in manufacturing processes and develop innovative solutions.
• Develop process documentation, standard operating procedures, and control plans.
Tooling & Equipment
• Design, source, and qualify production equipment, fixtures, tooling, and automation devices.
• Work closely with onsite machinists before, during, and after commissioning designs to be manufactured.
• Perform equipment installation, commissioning, and testing.
• Evaluate and implement new manufacturing technologies to enhance productivity.
Quality & Compliance
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance to develop inspection fixtures, in-process inspection methods, and product function testing systems.
• Ensure manufacturing processes comply with applicable regulatory, safety, and environmental standards.
Controls & Automation
• Develop manufacturing processes which leverage recent technological advancements in the field of automation such as robots / vision / servo motion / flexible part feeding / etc.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Support production teams by resolving day-to-day technical issues on the manufacturing floor.
• Work closely with the maintenance department to develop comprehensive preventive maintenance programs.
• Train production operators and maintenance technicians on new and updated processes.
• Assist the maintenance team with complex repairs and emergency troubleshooting.
Required
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field.
• Proficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks or equivalent).
• Solid understanding of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, machining, additive manufacturing, fabrication, and related manufacturing processes.
• Experience with power tools, hand tools, and basic metrology equipment.
• Ability to design, read, and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and bill of materials (BOM) structures.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset.
Preferred
• Experience with PLC and HMI programming (Studio 5000, FactoryTalk Optix, Do-More Designer, etc.)
• Proficient with object-oriented programming and finite state machine concepts.
• Experience with industrial controls wiring and networks (Modbus, EtherNet/IP, PNP/NPN sensors, etc.)
• Expertise implementing LEAN manufacturing processes.
• Experience with modular, small-batch, and flexible manufacturing processes.
• 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing engineering role within a production environment.
• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
• Salary Range: $80,000 - $155,000 DOQ
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match and profit sharing.
• Vacation, Paid time off (PTO), and holidays.
• Professional development and continuing education support.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Nelson Irrigation Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, national origin, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws.