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Associate Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Minnesota

By utilizing the knowledge and feedback of all associates we drive continuous improvement in our ... Interface with management, design engineering and other staff regarding manufacturing capabilities ...

This role is currently based at our Minneapolis office and will transition to our new headquarters in Dayton, MN, in 2027. Assist experienced engineers in planning and executing manufacturing ...

Manufacturing Associate The Manufacturing Associate transforms frozen plasma into a freeze-dried ... Interest in long-term growth into roles such as shift lead, team lead, engineering, regulatory, or ...

Manufacturing Associate The Manufacturing Associate transforms frozen plasma into a freeze-dried ... Interest in long-term growth into roles such as shift lead, team lead, engineering, regulatory, or ...

MANUFACTURING MANAGER

Milaca, MN · On-site

$90K - $119K/yr

Associate degree or equivalent experience required * Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Operations, or Business preferred * Equivalent combinations of education and experience are ...

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Associate Manufacturing Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$20

$32

How much do associate manufacturing engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate manufacturing engineer in Minnesota is $20.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Manufacturing Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, process improvement, and manufacturing methodologies, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, Lean Manufacturing tools, and quality management systems (such as Six Sigma) is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and attention to detail are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure efficient production processes, high product quality, and successful collaboration with cross-functional teams.

What are some typical challenges faced by an Associate Manufacturing Engineer during process improvements?

As an Associate Manufacturing Engineer, one of the main challenges is balancing the need for efficiency improvements with maintaining product quality and safety standards. You may encounter resistance to change from production teams who are accustomed to existing processes, requiring strong communication and collaboration skills. Additionally, troubleshooting equipment or workflow issues often demands quick, analytical thinking and adaptability, especially when working under tight production deadlines. Overcoming these challenges offers valuable opportunities to develop problem-solving abilities and gain hands-on experience with lean manufacturing principles.

What does an Associate Manufacturing Engineer do?

An Associate Manufacturing Engineer assists in designing, developing, and improving manufacturing processes within a production facility. They work closely with senior engineers to troubleshoot production issues, implement process improvements, and ensure product quality. Their responsibilities often include collaborating with other departments, documenting procedures, and supporting the introduction of new products or technologies into manufacturing. This role is typically an entry-level engineering position that provides valuable hands-on experience in manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Associate Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectAssociate Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in engineering; often more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting manufacturing processes, assisting senior engineersDesign, optimize, and oversee manufacturing processes independently
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing plants, production facilities, industrial companiesManufacturing firms, automotive, aerospace, electronics industries

The main difference is experience and responsibility level. Associate Manufacturing Engineers typically support and assist in manufacturing processes, while Manufacturing Engineers take on more independent roles in designing and improving production systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are common in manufacturing industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Minnesota? For Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Associate Manufacturing Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,449 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Nidec Motor

Mankato, MN

$85.40K - $128.10K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 hours ago


Job description

We begin with dreams. Dreams drive our motivation. Dreams are our future. The world's dreams, people's dreams, our dreams. Our passion creates ideas that make dreams come alive. Technology and products that were only dreams become reality.


All for dreams. Dreams challenge and the Nidec-Group will continue to meet the challenge. For the world's and people's tomorrows; the world's first, the world's best technologies and products; we will continue our part in creating a better society.

Job Summary

Nidec is the world's No.1 comprehensive motor manufacturer handling "everything that spins and moves", miniature to gigantic. Nidec is a global enterprise comprised of over 300 subsidiaries/affiliates. We are a leading manufacturer of commercial motors, industrial motors, appliance motors, and controls. Our product line features a full line of high efficiency motors for industrial applications in water treatment, mining, oil and gas, and power generation, and for commercial applications such as pool and spa, condensers, cooling towers and large refrigeration units.
From keeping us comfortable in our homes to pumping clean water to making our cars more safe, electric motors are an indispensable part of our daily lives. At Nidec, our employees are on the forefront of developing new motor technologies. As we move deeper into the age of robotics, the impact of motors will only increase.
With over 140,000 employees stationed worldwide, Nidec continues to be a unique organization, and each location maintains its individual personality.
Whether driving locomotives, powering offshore platforms or keeping the lights on after a storm, Nidec electric power generation products impact the world on a daily basis. With over 1,000 employees in the Americas, we are moving forward with technology to solve our customers' electrical power needs for both prime and backup generation needs as the industry's leading manufacturer.

Job Description

Shift: 1st shift

Days of Work: Monday - Friday

Work Hours: 8:00am to 5:00 pm

Work Location: On-site (North Mankato, MN)

Starting Salary: $85,400 to $128,100 Annually

Pay Frequency: Bi-Weekly

At Nidec, we prioritize our team's well-being and success. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you both personally and professionally. These are the great benefits we offer, with additional perks and programs available to enhance your overall experience with us.

  • Competitive Compensation: Attractive salary with additional bonus opportunities.

  • Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision and disability coverage, effective from your first day.

  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with a best-in-class company match of 100% on the employee's first 6% with an additional 3% employer contribution to support your financial future.

  • Work-Life Balance: Generous time off package, including PTO and holidays.

  • Education Assistance: Tuition reimbursement and continuous learning opportunities to support your professional growth.

Position Objective:

Develop and implement optimal, cost-effective manufacturing processes and methods in accordance with product specifications and quality standards. Recommend and implement improvements to production processes, methods, and controls. Coordinate manufacturing launch for new or revised products.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Safety

    • People, plant and property targeting zero lost days and zero incidences. This should be accomplished through the implementation of rigorous systems and adherence to these systems which transforms our culture to a safety driven organization which strives for continuous improvement.

  • Continuous Improvement

    • By utilizing the knowledge and feedback of all associates we drive continuous improvement in our results regarding Safety, Quality, Cost, Training and Operational efficiency. This will be driven and sustained through an employee involvement/suggestion program.

  • Quality

    • Improve our internal and external quality results targeting zero defects in all our processes. This will extend to robust supplier development and selection ensuring that they are held to the same standard of zero defects.

  • Exceed Customer requirements/expectations-This will apply to Quality, Delivery, Flexibility and Speed of Implementation with respect to all customer interactions.

  • Prepare and maintain detailed layouts of processes and related equipment.

  • Coordinate the manufacturing launch of new/revised products including establishing goals, training teams and evaluating results.

  • Interface with management, design engineering and other staff regarding manufacturing capabilities, production schedules, and other considerations to facilitate production processes.

  • Interface with sales, planning, and design staff concerning product design and tooling to ensure efficient production methods and quality results.

  • Design, develop and test and / or source and cost-justify various tools, machinery, and equipment for recommended manufacturing methods. This may include development of funding requests, scheduling project tasks and managing budget. Interface with vendors to determine product specifications and arrange for purchase of machinery and equipment according to specifications and quality standards.

  • Apply statistical methods and perform product / process analysis for cost reduction, quality improvement and improved efficiency. Provide leadership and team leading assistance in implementing Lean technologies such as set-up reduction, visual signal flow techniques, kan-ban and work sequencing tools, total productive maintenance, 5S and kaizen processes.

  • Represent manufacturing engineering cross-functional teams. Provide manufacturing support and lead FMEA activities related to process and design for key product introductions.

  • Manage multiple engineering projects from start-up to completion

  • Perform other related duties as assigned

  • Travel required to assist in product DFMA and/or product transfer between Reynosa MX, Lexington TN and Mankato facilities. May also require travel for training and other business needs.

  • Assist in leading others in the manufacturing group.

Experience/Skills:

  • 5+ years related manufacturing experience.

  • Leader of Kaizen and Lean Manufacturing initiatives

  • Proficient in:

    • CNC / Robotic machine programming

    • Computers i.e. Microsoft Office

    • CAD / Machine tooling and design

    • Problem analysis and resolution

    • Have knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics and machining practices.

  • Quality orientation and high attention to detail

  • Ability to work with vendors, customers and employees

  • Must be a sole US Citizen

Education:

  • BS Degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering

Additional Job Details

CHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE:http://acim.nidec.com/generators/kato-engineering/about-us/katocareers

Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action at Nidec
Nidec is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action Employer encouraging diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to their age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, genetic information, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information regarding your (EEO) rights as an applicant, please visit the following website: http://www1.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf

Work Shift Schedule

First Shift (United States of America)

No Soliciting

Nidec will not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third party recruiting agencies in response to Nidec job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers. Pre-approval from the Nidec Talent Acquisition team is required before any external candidate can be submitted and such candidate must be submitted to the Nidec Talent Acquisition team.