2

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Bozeman, MT

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer information

See Bozeman, MT salary details

$15

$33

$55

How much do entry level manufacturing engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level manufacturing engineer in Bozeman, MT is $33.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.66 and $37.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level manufacturing engineer do?

An Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, development, and optimization of manufacturing processes within a production facility. They work closely with senior engineers and production teams to improve efficiency, quality, and safety in manufacturing operations. Typical tasks may include analyzing workflow, troubleshooting equipment issues, implementing process improvements, and supporting new product introductions. This role often involves hands-on problem solving and the use of engineering principles to ensure smooth and cost-effective manufacturing. Entry level engineers are also expected to learn company-specific processes and industry regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level manufacturing engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in engineering (usually mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing), strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and foundational knowledge of manufacturing processes. Familiarity with CAD software, ERP systems, and process improvement methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma is highly valued. Effective communication, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and identifying process improvements. These skills and qualities are important because they enable engineers to optimize production efficiency, ensure product quality, and support continuous improvement in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level manufacturing engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level manufacturing engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced production environments, learning to troubleshoot equipment issues quickly, and understanding complex manufacturing processes. Balancing hands-on problem solving with documentation and process improvement tasks can also be demanding. However, these challenges provide valuable learning opportunities and are typically supported by mentorship from senior engineers and collaboration with cross-functional teams. As you gain experience, you'll become more confident in identifying inefficiencies and proposing solutions.

What is the difference between Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Technician?

AspectEntry Level Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldTechnical diploma or associate degree
Work EnvironmentDesign, process improvement, and project planning in manufacturing settingsOperating machinery, troubleshooting, and maintaining equipment
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, engineering firms, production plantsFactories, production lines, manufacturing facilities

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineers focus on designing processes, improving efficiency, and supporting production planning, often requiring an engineering degree. Manufacturing Technicians handle equipment operation and maintenance, typically with technical diplomas. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Bozeman, MT?

The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Bozeman, MT are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Bozeman, MT?

For Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Bozeman, MT, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Bozeman, MT look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Bozeman, MT are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Bozeman, MT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,465 per year, or $32 per hour.

Photonics & Laser Technology Non-Tenure Track Faculty - Gallatin College (Applicant Pool)

Montana State University

Bozeman, MT • On-site

$1.3K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Montana State University rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

410th of 619 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Announcement Number
FAC - VA - 26041
For questions regarding this position, please contact:
Sarah Maki
(406) 994-6234
sarah.maki1@montana.edu
Classification Title
Instructor
Working Title
Photonics & Laser Technology Non-Tenure Track Faculty - Gallatin College (Applicant Pool)
Brief Position Overview
Gallatin College seeks non-tenure track faculty for the Photonics & Laser Technology program.
Faculty Tenure Track
No
Faculty Rank
Non-Tenure Track
Position Number
4A6789
Department
Gallatin College
Division
Gallatin College
Appointment Type
Non-Tenure Track (Pooled)
Contract Term
Semester
Semester
Fall & Spring
If other, specify From date
If other, specify End date
Union Affiliation
Contact HR for Determination
FTE
Dependent on work load units.
Benefits Eligible
Depends on FTE (please contact Human Resources - 406-994-3651)
Salary
$1,300 per credit
Contract Type
LOA
If other, please specify
Recruitment Type
Open
Position Details
General Statement
Gallatin College seeks qualified individuals to provide non-tenurable level instruction and/or related functions.
The department or program search committees or hiring authority will review and evaluate the submitted application materials. Applicants will be notified if their application is being retained in the non-tenure track faculty hiring pool.
Duties and Responsibilities
Gallatin College seeks course instructors to teach in Bozeman in one or more of the following specialty areas:
  • Electronics
  • Optics/Lasers/Photonics

Required Qualifications - Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
  1. Academic degree in Physics, Engineering or related fields
  2. Demonstrated experience working with and engaging various students and colleagues within and outside the department

Preferred Qualifications - Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
  1. Master's degree in Physics or Engineering
  2. Prior teaching experience
  3. Understanding of the two-year college mission
  4. Demonstrated commitment to student, faculty, and staff enrichment

The Successful Candidate Will
  • Work professionally and effectively with individuals and groups
  • Possess effective interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills
  • Have the ability to contribute positively to the academic success of the students and the mission of Gallatin College Montana State University

Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
The position for which you have applied MAY BE a Union position. Union affiliation is determined by job duties and the collective bargaining unit.
  • Faculty - Gallatin College - Any position more than .5 FTE MAY BE eligible for benefits as outlined in the policies of the Montana Two-Year College Faculty Association (MTYCFA), Montana State University, the Montana University System or the AFMSU Non-Tenure Track Collective Bargaining Agreements.

This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Physical Demands
Normal classroom environment.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
The Program
Students completing the AAS in Photonics and Laser Technology will learn the scientific principles of optics, fiber-optics, and lasers. Technicians will be instructed on the processes and equipment incorporating these devices in electronic and electro-optics systems. This training will prepare students to become technicians who work on products or devices in manufacturing, communications, defense, homeland security, medical, information technology, energy, environmental monitoring, lighting, displays, and entertainment. This Associate of Applied Science in Photonics and Laser Technology (AAS PLT) will prepare students for entry level employment as a photonics or photonics-related technician.
The Department
To enhance educational opportunity, Gallatin College offers developmental coursework, transfer degrees and workforce certificates.
High quality instruction, small class sizes, and out-of-class academic support are hallmarks of Gallatin College MSU.
The College
Gallatin College MSU is Southwest Montana's two-year college, offering associate degrees and one- and two- year professional certificates. Gallatin College complements the four-year programs at Montana State University and ensures access to workforce development that promotes a vibrant local economy.
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies
Multiple
Desired Start Date
Review of applications will be on a continual basis and will continue until the position(s) are filled. Applicants will be notified if their application is being retained in the hiring pool for up to two years.
Position End Date (if temporary)
Open Date
Close Date
Applications will be:
Applications will be accepted and screened for the duration of this pool.
Special Instructions
Review of applications will be on a continual basis and will continue until the position(s) are filled. Applicants will be notified if their application is being retained in the hiring pool for up to two years.
Appointments may be on a part-time basis and vary in duration, a couple weeks, a semester or an academic year, depending on the specific needs of the department or program. Salary is dependent on the number of courses taught and duration.
This position is not eligible for sponsorship.

EEO Statement
Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.
In compliance with the Montana Veteran's Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran's preference, please complete the veteran's preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.

What Montana State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom