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Contract Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Manufacturing Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for creating, documenting, developing, and implementing the ... all contract services, prior to SOP. * Main interface with machining, automation and capital ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Southfield, MI

$66K - $85K/yr

Overview Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for creating, documenting, developing, and ... all contract services, prior to SOP. * Main interface with machining, automation and capital ...

Manufacturing Engineer-Ithaca,Michigan

Ithaca, MI · On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer, Ithaca, MI BASIC PURPOSE Process development and industrialization for new ... Contracts, Diagrams, Engineering Drawings, Sketches, Directives, Documents, Models, Forms ...

Manufacturing Engineer-Ithaca,Michigan

Ithaca, MI · On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer, Ithaca, MI BASIC PURPOSE Process development and industrialization for new ... Contracts, Diagrams, Engineering Drawings, Sketches, Directives, Documents, Models, Forms ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Ithaca, MI · On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

IND.(MI-USA) Domain Operations Type of contract Regular position Experience Minimum 3 years Activities We are 40 000 men and women who meet the challenges faced by our automotive, aviation, defence ...

Manufacturing Mechanical Engineer This role will be responsible for leading the setup ... is a Contract to Hire position based out of Troy, MI. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this ...

Showing results 41-60

Contract Manufacturing Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$41.4K

$74.6K

$104.6K

How much do contract manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract manufacturing engineer in Michigan is $74,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,600.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges contract manufacturing engineers face when managing multiple vendor relationships?

Contract Manufacturing Engineers often juggle several vendor relationships simultaneously, which can present challenges in maintaining consistent quality standards, ensuring timely delivery, and managing clear communication across different teams. Balancing the expectations of internal stakeholders with the capabilities and constraints of external partners requires strong organizational and negotiation skills. Proactively addressing production issues and fostering transparent communication with vendors are key strategies for overcoming these challenges and ensuring project success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract manufacturing engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and quality assurance, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, ERP systems, and Lean or Six Sigma certifications are commonly required for overseeing production efficiency and compliance. Strong project management, problem-solving skills, and effective communication with both internal teams and external vendors make professionals stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring high-quality, cost-effective manufacturing solutions and seamless collaboration across organizations.

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

AspectContract Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Six Sigma or LeanBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Six Sigma or Lean
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often project-specific, in manufacturing plants or supplier facilitiesFull-time, in manufacturing plants or corporate offices
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing firms, suppliers, contract manufacturersManufacturing companies, industrial firms, OEMs

Both roles require similar technical credentials and work in manufacturing environments. However, Contract Manufacturing Engineers focus on managing outsourced production projects, while Manufacturing Engineers oversee ongoing production processes within a company. The choice depends on whether the role is project-specific or continuous process improvement.

What is a contract manufacturing engineer?

A Contract Manufacturing Engineer is a professional who is hired on a temporary or project basis to manage and optimize manufacturing processes for a company. Their responsibilities often include designing efficient production systems, ensuring product quality, and collaborating with suppliers or contract manufacturers. They may also help with scaling production, troubleshooting issues, and implementing cost-saving measures. Contract Manufacturing Engineers are typically employed for their specialized expertise and flexibility, supporting organizations during periods of transition, growth, or when specific skills are needed.
What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Contract Manufacturing Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,620 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer

Piston Automotive

Southfield, MI • On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Piston Automotive rating

2.6

Company rating: 2.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for creating, documenting, developing, and implementing the processes and procedures used to assemble the company’s product. Involvement will range from initial project sourcing all the way through SOP +90 days, or as required for corporate employees or launch through EOP plant employees. Both may be required to support implementation of engineering changes for current production products.

Piston Automotive wasn’t just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And that begins with building better teams solely dedicated to achieving excellence at every level of execution through a combination of experience, expertise, and a deep seeded passion for what we do. Our assemblies consistently set the standard because our people consistently raise the bar.

Why Piston Automotive?

Competitive Wages, Paid Holidays & Vacation, Medical & Rx Plans, Dental & Vision Plans, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Life & Disability Coverage, 401K with Company Match, Tuition Reimbursement , Vehicle and Product Discounts


  • Responsible for the planning, coordination and implementation of assigned
  • Develop and track capital investment budgets for assigned projects.
  • Tracks, manages and communicates the capital equipment timing plan and open issues to the program team.
  • Responsible for development of all RFQ’s and Equipment Specifications for Capital and Tooling Requirements, including all contract services, prior to SOP.
  • Main interface with machining, automation and capital equipment vendors.
  • Responsible for all production processes development / and final approvals including work cell layout, ergonomic workstation design, and line balancing.
  • Responsible for development of Prototype and Production Process Documentation through SOP +90 days. This includes Process Flow, Cycle Time Analysis, PFMEA and Work Instructions.
  • Responsible for programming torque control systems and joint development. Selection of error & mistake proofing devices.
  • Responsible for initial plant floor layout & PFEP, including material flow and storage.
  • Responsible for procurement and installation of all line side material presentation and handling devices.
  • Responsible to transfer all equipment and process documentation to the Production Plant prior to SOP. This includes all OEM Equipment Documentation (electronic and hard copies of Manuals, BOM, Drawings, recommended spare parts and recommended PM’s).
  • Responsible for initial training coordination for new equipment or process changes.
  • Responsible for reviewing module assembly drawings & CAD Models for manufacturability (both internally and with the Customer) as required and/or requested.
  • Responsible for all site preparation during the launch phase of projects.
  • Determining cost and timing impacts for engineering changes that affect the assembly process, square footage requirements, capital investments (equipment, packaging and facilities) and direct labor.
  • Gathers the base line program information with Program Management / Business Development to supply statement of work, bill of materials and initial program timing.
  • Supports Engineering Cost Estimator to supply quoted assumptions for the assembly process, square footage requirements, capital / tooling investments and direct / indirect labor.
  • Supports Purchasing in evaluation of new suppliers, products and technologies to help maintain a competitive edge in the industry.
  • Provide guidance in equipment and capital selection to the Purchasing Dept.
  • Provide mechanical engineering expertise to lead design and development of the assembly systems, production tooling and packaging.
  • Supports all engineering related communication internally and with the Customer; including technical presentation, design reviews, capacity analysis, and feasibility studies.
  • Works with the program team (internally and with the customers) to develop and launch products into production.
  • Supports program meetings (both internally and with the Customer) as required and/or requested.
  • Drive lean concepts (5S, Kanban, Visual Factory, TPM etc.) throughout the organization.
  • Implement process improvements to improve overall efficiencies, including automation.
  • Benchmarking processes and equipment throughout the industry and incorporating into Piston Standards.
  • Responsible for problem solving and resolution of issues at all sites as directed / or required. Supports Team during crisis management.
  • Other duties as assigned.

  • Strong understanding of assembly requirements for all Automotive Component Systems; Body, Trim, Chassis, Powertrain, Interior.   At least 7 years of experience.  (Ideally 10  years of experience).    
  • Supports cross functional implementation of advanced robotic technologies.  
  • Strong working knowledge of Manual and Automated Assembly Systems and Technologies, including both mechanical and control systems.
  • Strong knowledge in JIT, SPD, ILVS and Batch manufacturing systems. Including broadcast analysis from customer trigger through customer installation.
  • Strong Knowledge of Industrial Safety Standards and requirements.
  • Ability to analyze current business labor efficiencies, capital investments and other historical data to calculate product cost.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Computer literacy and proficiency are required, must have advanced skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, Project, Power Point, AutoCAD LT and misc. CAD viewers.
  • Self-motivator who works with minimal direction, makes decisions independently, and is able to motivate others to complete the task at hand.
  • Corporate employees must be able to travel as required to support new launch, engineering change or production related activities (typically no more than 1-2 wks. at a time / estimated 6-12 wks. annually).

Piston Automotive, part of the Piston Group family of companies, is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that values the unique contributions of every employee. We encourage all candidates to apply for positions that match their skills and capabilities, ensuring equal consideration without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. For any questions regarding job opportunities or the application process, please reach out to us at pistongrouptalent@pistongroup.com. We are committed to providing accommodations for individuals with disabilities during the job search and application process, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity for all job seekers.

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