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Contract Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Minnesota

The senior engineer will work cross-functionally with R&D, Quality, Regulatory Affairs, Supply ... Contract Manufacturing Oversight * Serve as the primary technical operations lead for external ...

The Manufacturing Engineer assists in the development of capable processes and ensures efficient ... given contract. * Writes clean and concise work instructions that can be understood by ...

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Contract Manufacturing Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$46.5K

$83.9K

$117.5K

How much do contract manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract manufacturing engineer in Minnesota is $83,851.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $92,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Contract Manufacturing Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,851 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer (Robotic Weld)

Standard Iron

Sauk Centre, MN • On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Other

Re-posted yesterday


Standard Iron rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Standard Iron is a leading U.S.-based manufacturing partner specializing in metal fabrication, complex weldments, custom fuel & hydraulic tanks and architectural metals. With 90+ years of experience and seven advanced facilities across North America, we help our customers solve problems, not just fill orders. Whether you’re launching a new product, improving throughput, or optimizing for cost, we build solutions tailored to your needs.

Statement of the Job

Standard Iron is a leading U.S.-based manufacturing partner specializing in metal fabrication, complex weldments, custom fuel & hydraulic tanks and architectural metals. With 90+ years of experience and seven advanced facilities across North America, we help our customers solve problems, not just fill orders. Whether you’re launching a new product, improving throughput, or optimizing for cost, we build solutions tailored to your needs.

Primary Job Focus

This role is heavily focused on robotic weld programming, weld process development, and weld quality optimization. Candidates must bring strong hands‑on experience in robotic welding systems and weld parameter development.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop, program, and optimize robotic welding applications (e.g., FANUC, ABB, Yaskawa/Motoman, KUKA).
  • Perform robot teach pendant and/or offline programming for new and existing weld processes.
  • Establish and validate weld parameters (voltage, amperage, travel speed, wire feed speed, gas composition) to meet quality and productivity targets.
  • Program and optimize other CNC equipment (e.g., laser cutters, turret punches, press brakes, tube benders) using software like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or nesting programs.
  • Develop, evaluate, and improve manufacturing processes for sheet metal fabrication, including laser cutting, punching, bending, forming, welding, and assembly.
  • Design and validate tooling, fixtures, and jigs to enhance precision and efficiency in fabrication operations.
  • Support New Product Introduction (NPI) by reviewing client designs for manufacturability (DFM), developing weld sequences, tooling requirements, and process documentation.
  • Troubleshoot production issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions for quality and process problems. Troubleshoot robotic weld issues related to fit‑up, distortion, porosity, spatter, lack of fusion, etc.
  • Analyze production workflows, identify bottlenecks, and implement lean manufacturing principles (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen) to reduce waste, improve cycle times, and increase throughput.
  • Collaborate with clients, sales, quality assurance, and production teams to ensure projects meet specifications, quality standards (e.g., ISO 9001/AS9100), and delivery schedules.
  • Contribute to continuous cost reduction initiatives.
  • Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental standards, and industry best practices.
  • Lead or participate in capital equipment justification, selection, and implementation projects. Interface with integrators and equipment suppliers for installation, startup, and upgrades of robotic weld cells.
  • Train production staff on new processes and maintain accurate documentation for repeatability across contract runs.
Qualifications and Requirements
  • Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Welding Technology, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
  • 3–7 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, preferably in sheet metal fabrication or contract manufacturing with an emphasis on programming industrial robots for welding applications.
  • Strong knowledge of sheet metal processes (e.g., shearing, laser/plasma cutting, forming, MIG/TIG welding, finishing).
  • Proficiency in CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Nesting software) and ERP/MRP systems.
  • Experience with lean manufacturing tools, process optimization, and quality systems (e.g., PFMEA, control plans).
  • Excellent problem‑solving skills with hands‑on experience in root cause analysis and continuous improvement.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and weld symbols (AWS standards preferred).
  • Ability to support multiple projects and priorities in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
  • Familiarity with industry standards (e.g., AWS welding, ASTM materials) is a plus.
Preferred Skills
  • Experience with offline programming software (e.g., RoboGuide, RobotStudio, MotoSim, Delmia).
  • Experience with both Fanuc and ABB programming software.
  • Knowledge of advanced welding technologies: Vision‑guided welding, Laser seam tracking, Through‑arc seam tracking (TAST), Adaptive welding system.
  • Familiarity with welding codes and standards (AWS D1.1, ISO standards, etc.).
  • Ability to simulate weld paths, reach, and cycle times virtually.
  • Experience in Lean Six Sigma with a strong problem‑solving and continuous improvement mindset.
  • Experience in a contract manufacturing or job shop environment with variable production runs.
  • Knowledge of automation and robotics in fabrication.
  • An understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • CAD/CAM experience.
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