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Associate Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Hickory, NC

DENSO, a global leader in automotive manufacturing and technology, is looking for talented ... Manage engineering associates performing the following activities: * Troubleshoots production ...

Manufacturing Technician

Newton, NC · On-site

$35 - $37/hr

Associate's degree preferred but not required * 7 or more years of experience in a manufacturing environment * Comfortable working closely with engineers and manufacturing operators * Strong problem ...

New

Quality Engineer

Newton, NC · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

The ideal candidate has 2+ years of progressive experience in process optimization, manufacturing ... Dauch will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race ...

Be a steward of talent: coach and develop associates and drive development plans for direct reports ... Who are we looking for? * BS/BA in Business, Engineering, or Supply Chain Management or related ...

TIE Engineer 1

Statesville, NC · On-site

$64K - $79K/yr

Investigate in-house manufacturing problems and recommend countermeasures. * Research, develop, and ... Requires effective communication and involvement with all internal associates/departments and ...

Associate degree in Engineering Technology, Manufacturing, Quality, or a related technical field * Experience with FARO Arms, Romer Arms, and portable metrology systems * Experience supporting First ...

TIE Engineer 1

Statesville, NC · On-site

$64K - $79K/yr

Investigate in-house manufacturing problems and recommend countermeasures. * Research, develop, and ... Requires effective communication and involvement with all internal associates/departments and ...

Associate degree in Engineering Technology, Manufacturing, Quality, or a related technical field * Experience with FARO Arms, Romer Arms, and portable metrology systems * Experience supporting First ...

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Associate Manufacturing Engineer information

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How much do associate manufacturing engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate manufacturing engineer in Hickory, NC is $18.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

How much does an associate manufacturing engineer make?

An associate manufacturing engineer typically earns between $60,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. The role often involves working with manufacturing processes, quality control, and production optimization tools.

Is an associate manufacturing engineer entry level?

An associate manufacturing engineer is typically an entry-level position suitable for recent graduates or those with limited industry experience. It often involves learning manufacturing processes, using tools like CAD software, and developing skills necessary for career advancement in engineering roles.

What is an associate manufacturing engineer?

An associate manufacturing engineer is an entry-level professional who supports the design, development, and improvement of manufacturing processes. They often work with production teams, utilize engineering tools, and may require knowledge of quality standards and manufacturing software. This role typically involves learning on the job and gaining experience in a manufacturing environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Hickory, NC?

The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Hickory, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Hickory, NC?

For Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Hickory, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Hickory, NC are hiring for Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs?

Cities near Hickory, NC with the most Associate Manufacturing Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Hickory, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,805 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Denso

Statesville, NC • On-site

$96K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


DENSO rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 45 rated automakers


Job description


Job Summary:
DENSO, a global leader in automotive manufacturing and technology, is looking for talented individuals with a passion for leading others as an Engineering Manager in our Production Engineering department. The Production Engineering Manager will oversee daily administration & management of department staff. This individual will be responsible for the oversight & direction of department output and other various tasks.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Assign resources and set priority to meet company KPI's
  • Mentor and train associates to further develop talent
  • Coordinate with other departments to clear obstacles and achieve goals.
  • Manage engineering associates performing the following activities:
    • Troubleshoots production processes to identify the root cause of problems and designs, develops, and implements appropriate countermeasures to improve quality, productivity, and safety.
    • May develop, design, test, and implement line modifications and arrangements, devices, fixtures, etc. to obtain continuous improvement of the production processes, achieve cost reduction, and prepare for new product requirements. This may include issuing process control sheets or process change information for the manufacturing processes.
    • Provides technical support to production in order to solve problems related to quality, productivity, safety, etc.
    • May investigate, analyze, and create specifications for kaizen ideas to improve line MOR, productivity, and realize cost savings for the Company and may coordinate the design and installation of kaizen ideas and projects.
    • Originates equipment and parts specifications, purchase orders, and follow-up data to obtain the necessary resources to cover production requirements for current and new products.
    • Coordinates and collaborates in the production of new products and engineering changes to detect and solve problems which may arise prior to the beginning of mass production.
    • May review machine configurations for the most productive methods to assemble multiple products in the same machine.
    • May prepare assembly programs for new products and may perform setup of programs on equipment.
    • May review drawings for parts and may create recognition and visual data for equipment.
    • May coordinate and collaborate in the products' prototype revisions and builds to resolve problems before mass production begins.
    • May be involved in various projects which emphasize process improvement such as productivity improvement and scrap reduction in order to improve quality and reduce costs.
    • May facilitate and attend meetings and prepare reports as necessary based on daily production activities related to Production Engineering.
    • May develop specifications for new processes, new machines, or machine modifications for new products or projects, quality improvement, or productivity improvement. This may involve conducting feasibility studies, developing process control specifications, preparing or modifying equipment and tools, examining the implemented process and its capability, and confirming the product quality.
    • Maintains an appropriate level of conventionality and conformance in regard to the corporate culture as expressed in the Associate Handbook. Relates well with others, including as appropriate, peers, supervisor, subordinates, customers and suppliers. Maintains good attendance and assumes appropriate role(s) when working in a team environment. Responds appropriately to unexpected and/or continuing situations which develop in the work environment.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial) or a related technical field required
  • 8-10 years of relevant experience required
  • Proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite
  • Electronics experience preferred
  • Strong verbal & written communication skills

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Relocation assistance
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement

Annual Salary: $96,000-$120,000

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