Associate Development Manager Jobs in Portland, CT

Kamatics is seeking an Associate Development Engineer to support the design, development, and implementation of aerospace bearing products and manufacturing processes. This role will be responsible for developing product designs, manufacturing methods, tooling, fixtures, and process improvements that meet customer requirements for quality, delivery, and performance.

The Associate Development Engineer will work closely with Manufacturing, Applications Engineering, Quality, Purchasing, and Operations teams to support new product introduction, continuous improvement initiatives, and ongoing production needs. This position offers an excellent opportunity for an early-career engineer to gain hands-on experience in product development, manufacturing engineering, and aerospace production environments.

• Design product and manufacturing components using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to meet customer and engineering requirements.
• Perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to evaluate product designs and verify compliance with aerospace bearing standards and performance requirements.
• Develop and improve manufacturing processes for new and existing products utilizing machining, fabrication, and processing methodologies.
• Create manufacturing sequence drawings, process documentation, and technical instructions in accordance with industry drafting and GD&T standards.
• Design fixtures, tooling, gaging, and other manufacturing aids to support production efficiency, quality, and repeatability.
• Support manufacturing operations by troubleshooting technical issues, evaluating process capability, and implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Collaborate with Applications Engineering, Quality, Purchasing, Sales, suppliers, and customers to resolve technical and manufacturing challenges.
• Analyze production data and identify opportunities to improve quality, productivity, throughput, and cost performance.
• Develop standard work instructions and support Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Work closely with Production Engineers, Technicians, and Operations personnel to meet internal and external customer delivery requirements.
• Communicate project status, technical findings, and recommendations to stakeholders and leadership as required.
• Maintain a safe and organized work environment while adhering to all company safety and environmental policies.
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Industrial Technology, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience may be considered.

• 1-3 years of engineering, manufacturing engineering, product development, or machine shop experience.
• Experience with CAD software is required.
• Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is preferred.
• Experience in machining, manufacturing processes, or aerospace manufacturing environments is preferred.
• Familiarity with ERP systems is a plus.

• Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
• Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
• Manufacturing process development
• Blueprint reading and interpretation
• Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)
• Machining and manufacturing fundamentals
• Process improvement and Lean Manufacturing principles
• Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Project)

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Customer-focused mindset
• Initiative and willingness to learn
• Results-oriented approach with strong follow-through

• Occasional lifting and moving of materials up to 50 pounds
• Frequent bending, twisting, and grasping of tools and materials
• Frequent visual concentration and attention to detail
• Continuous standing during certain activities

• Occasional overtime and weekend work may be required to meet customer demands.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Benefits: 

  At Kamatics, we recognize how important your career and benefits are to you and your family. We offer a full suite of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability coverage, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, basic and supplemental life insurance, employee assistance plan, retirement savings and matching, and other developmental opportunities. We are committed to supporting the way you live and work.

Kamatics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to complete the application process may contact Human Resources.

This position requires access to information subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a “U.S. person” as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15), which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees, as required by U.S. export control laws