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Associate Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Gaithersburg, MD

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Downstream GMP Manufacturing Associate Site Location: Rockville, MD, 20850 Contract Duration: 3 ... Engineering and 0-1 years of experience in Downstream biologic production processes in a GMP ...

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Associate Manufacturing Engineer information

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$36

How much do associate manufacturing engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate manufacturing engineer in Gaithersburg, MD is $22.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $25.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate manufacturing engineer?

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 the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Gaithersburg, MD? The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Gaithersburg, MD are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Gaithersburg, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Gaithersburg, MD are:
What cities near Gaithersburg, MD are hiring for Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs? Cities near Gaithersburg, MD with the most Associate Manufacturing Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Gaithersburg, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,828 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

$32.88 - $48.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 156 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) is looking for someone to join our Manufacturing Operations team as a Manufacturing Engineer in Pullman, WA. As a Manufacturing Engineer, you will help shape the future of manufacturing by bridging product design, production operations, and automation technologies. Through your efforts, you'll help SEL deliver world-class products while supporting our mission of making electric power safer, more reliable, and more economical.
A typical day as a Manufacturing Engineer might include:
  • Using data-driven analysis and simulation tools to optimize manufacturing processes, eliminate constraints, and increase factory throughput.
  • Working alongside Automation Engineering, you will develop and implement solutions that leverage SEL's growing automation toolset, while partnering with R&D to ensure products are designed for efficient manufacturing and future automation.
  • Identifying and evaluating automation opportunities, lead continuous improvement initiatives, and create practical tooling and fixtures that enhance quality, productivity, and operator experience.

This job might be for you if:
  • You have a B.S. in Mechanical, Industrial or Electrical engineering or equivalent experience.
  • You have excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
  • You have strong writing, documentation, and speaking skills.
  • You have the ability to learn new skills and assume new responsibilities.
  • You have the ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.

It is a plus if you have:
  • 2 years' experience in electronic manufacturing processes.
  • Experience leading a small non-collegiate technical support team.
  • Knowledge/experience in any of the following: manufacturing tooling design, material flow modeling, process design, cabling, and reliability.
  • Competence in process modeling/simulation software similar to FlexSim or Simul8.
  • 3D design and printing experience.
  • Competence with the some or all of the following software tools: Minitab tools, Microsoft Dynamics AX, Excel, PowerBI, Atlassian tools (Jira, Confluence), SolidWorks.

Physical Requirements
  • Lift, push, pull and maneuver up to 20 pounds frequently, and up to 35 pounds occasionally
  • Sit and stand for at least 8 hours
  • Vision correctable to 20/30 or better
  • Ability to differentiate color
  • Proficient in the use of computer keyboard devices
  • Reach, Bend, Twist

About Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories
SEL designs, manufactures, and supports products and systems that protect, monitor, control, and automate electric power systems. Our technologies help detect faults, prevent equipment damage, and reduce the impact of power outages.
Our mission is to make electric power safer, more reliable, and more economical. Employees contribute to practical, high-quality solutions used every day, where attention to detail and quality directly support the reliability of the electric grid.
Pullman, WA - This position is located in Pullman, WA. Nestled in Eastern Washington, offering an exceptional quality of life. Embrace the charm of small-town living with spacious surroundings, no traffic hassles, and easy access to outdoor adventures in nearby mountains, rivers, and forests. Plus, benefit from excellent schools and universities in the area.
Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work.
People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees.
  • We're 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options.
  • We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
  • We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay.
  • We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs.
  • Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.

Pay Range Information
The range for this role is $97,700 - $130,000 annually. We set starting pay based on job-related factors such as your experience, training, knowledge, and skills. We are looking to fill this position at the Manufacturing Engineer level, and we welcome applicants with a range of experience. Depending on your background, we may consider you for a different level, with compensation aligned accordingly.
Associate Manufacturing Engineer: $84,200 - $124,500 annually
Manufacturing Engineer: $97,700 - $130,000 annually
Lead Manufacturing Engineer: $115,300 - $170,400 annually
Communication with Applicants
We communicate with all applicants. If you do not receive a response about your application, please check your SPAM filter or reach out to us at careers@selinc.com.
SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled.

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