Automation Engineer Contract Jobs in Manchester, NH

Granite State Manufacturing is a leading contract manufacturer of large, complex, precision machined and welded components, supporting the US Navy in building submarines.   

We specialize in high-mix, low-to-medium volume production, delivering precision, quality, and on-time performance on custom-engineered products. Our capabilities include:

• Large-format CNC machining
• Heavy fabrication and welding (MIG, TIG, FCAW, SAW)
• Assembly, inspection, and testing
• Program management for complex builds

We are known for handling tight tolerances, complex geometries, and demanding customer specifications.

Our work environment is supportive, providing what our people need to do great work.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Machining Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and sustaining manufacturing processes for complex, large-scale CNC machined and welded components supporting government and defense programs. This role provides technical leadership for machining operations, driving improvements in quality, productivity, cost, and on-time delivery while ensuring compliance with customer, contractual, and regulatory requirements.

Working in a high-mix, low-mid volume manufacturing environment, the Machining Process Engineer partners closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Programming, Quality, Operations, Welding Engineering, Project Engineering, and Program Management to successfully introduce new products, resolve manufacturing challenges, and continuously improve machining performance.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop, implement, and continuously improve robust machining processes for complex CNC milling, turning, boring, and multi-axis machining operations.
• Establish, document, and maintain standardized work instructions, machining methods, setup procedures, and best practices to ensure repeatable, efficient manufacturing.
• Lead process optimization initiatives focused on improving safety, quality, throughput, machine utilization, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
• Design, develop, validate, and implement machining fixtures, workholding solutions, tooling strategies, and process improvements for large fabricated and machined components.
• Analyze machining performance, cycle times, spindle utilization, tooling consumption, and process capability to identify and implement cost-saving opportunities.
• Drive first-pass yield improvement through process capability studies, error-proofing, and manufacturing process controls.
• Investigate machining-related nonconformances using structured Root Cause Analysis methodologies and lead implementation of effective corrective and preventive actions.
• Collaborate with CNC programmers to optimize toolpaths, machining strategies, cutting parameters, and machine performance while reducing cycle time and improving process stability.
• Provide technical leadership and troubleshooting support for machinists, CNC programmers, supervisors, and production personnel to resolve complex manufacturing issues.
• Support quoting and estimating activities by validating machining methods, cycle times, tooling requirements, and manufacturing risks.
• Conduct time studies, capacity analyses, and process validation to improve production planning accuracy and manufacturing efficiency.
• Evaluate machine capabilities, process constraints, and manufacturing readiness to support production scheduling and customer commitments.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence methodologies.
• Define and monitor key manufacturing performance metrics including first-pass yield, scrap, rework, cycle time, setup reduction, machine utilization, and process capability.
• Serve as the machining technical authority for evaluating and implementing new machining technologies, cutting tools, workholding systems, automation, and capital equipment.
• Partner with Manufacturing Engineering, Welding Engineering, Quality, Operations, and Supply Chain to ensure manufacturability and successful execution of new and existing programs.
• Support New Product Introduction (NPI) activities by developing manufacturing processes, validating machining methods, identifying production risks, and achieving program milestones.
• Participate in Design for Manufacturability (DFM) reviews to improve producibility, reduce manufacturing cost, and minimize production risk.
• Ensure machining processes comply with customer specifications, engineering requirements, AS9100 quality standards, and applicable government and defense contract requirements.
• Develop and maintain process documentation including work instructions, process flow documentation, PFMEAs, control plans, tooling documentation, and process validation records.
• Mentor machinists and manufacturing personnel on machining best practices, process improvements, and new manufacturing technologies.
• Serve as the primary liaison between Engineering, Programming, Quality, and Operations to ensure alignment on technical requirements and manufacturing execution.
• Support legacy and new product introduction (NPI) projects working with a team of Program Managers, Project Engineers, Manufacturing Engineers and Weld Engineers to meet shipment goals.
• Demonstrates responsibility and accountability for creating a professional, safe, and clean environment evidenced by being at work on time to perform assigned duties, following the policies of Granite State Manufacturing, always wearing safety glasses in designated areas, maintaining a neat and orderly work area, and following safety practices to prevent errors.
• Demonstrates commitment to teamwork by establishing effective relationships and networks with both managers/directors and staff, collaborating with them to accomplish shared purposes and goals.
• Abides by GSM Code of Ethics and Business Conduct standards and strictly observes all U.S. and foreign laws and regulations.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• 5+ years of experience developing manufacturing processes for machining
• 3+ years of experience in a defense/aerospace-related job shop environment.
• Subject matter expert in GD&T.
• Experience interpreting detailed engineering drawings.
• BS in Mechanical, Quality, Industrial or Manufacturing Engineering discipline or 5+ years of equivalent on the job training and experience.
• Proficiency in MS Office Products
• Proficiency in SolidWorks.
• Proficiency in Mastercam
• Excellent human interaction skills
• Ability to obtain security clearance a plus.

• Due to the nature and importance of GSM's work, our positions require access to export-controlled information. Therefore, all candidates must qualify as a U.S. Person under applicable export-control/ITAR regulations or otherwise be authorized to access such information under U.S. law.

EEO STATEMENT

Granite State Manufacturing (GSM) is an equal-opportunity employer. GSM does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin, citizenship, veteran status, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws in its programs, activities, or employment.

Benefits

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Medical insurance
• Dental & Vision, Life insurance (Company paid)
• Disability benefits (Company paid)
• 401(k) & 401(k) company matching
• Paid time off and holidays
• Flexible spending accounts
• Health savings account
• Referral program
• Overtime opportunities (if applicable)
• Training and career growth in advanced manufacturing
• Employee assistance program

Why Join Us?

         Work on large-scale, one-of-a-kind projects

         Stable industry with strong customer demand

         Opportunity to grow in a flexible, high-skill environment

         Collaborative team focused on quality and craftsmanship