... that drives our manufacturing operations. This is a role with real ownership, direct impact on ... What You Bring * BS degree in an Engineering discipline required; entry-level candidates will be ...
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... that drives our manufacturing operations. This is a role with real ownership, direct impact on ... What You Bring * BS degree in an Engineering discipline required; entry-level candidates will be ...
Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer information
See Manhattan, KS salary details
$12.77 - $15.71
9% of jobs
$15.71 - $18.65
4% of jobs
$18.65 - $21.59
5% of jobs
$23.98 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$21.59 - $24.53
9% of jobs
$24.53 - $27.48
21% of jobs
The median wage is $27.68 / hr.
$27.48 - $30.42
31% of jobs
$30.42 - $33.36
16% of jobs
$33.36 - $36.30
4% of jobs
$36.30 - $39.24
0% of jobs
$39.24 - $42.18
0% of jobs
$42.18 - $45.12
1% of jobs
$12
$27
$45
How much do entry level manufacturing engineer jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level manufacturing engineer in Manhattan, KS is $27.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $30.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Technician?
| Aspect | Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer | Manufacturing Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field | Technical diploma or associate degree |
| Work Environment | Design, process improvement, and project planning in manufacturing settings | Operating machinery, troubleshooting, and maintaining equipment |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Manufacturers, engineering firms, production plants | Factories, 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 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.
More about Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Manhattan, KS look for?
The top searched job categories for Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Manhattan, KS are:
What cities near Manhattan, KS are hiring for Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs?
Cities near Manhattan, KS with the most Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer job openings:
Full-time
Posted 24 days ago
Job description
Own the systems that keep production running. As our plant-wide owner of control systems and instrumentation, you'll have end-to-end responsibility — from concept and design through commissioning, validation, and continuous improvement — for the technology that drives our manufacturing operations. This is a role with real ownership, direct impact on product quality, and the autonomy to shape how our systems evolve. Entry-level candidates with the right foundation are encouraged to apply.
What You'll Do
- Own Control Systems End-to-End: Serve as the plant-wide owner of all control systems and instrumentation — from initial concept and design through installation, commissioning, validation, and long-term maintenance and continuous improvement.
- Build and Maintain Critical Programs: Develop, maintain, and revise PLC and HMI programs to support production requirements and drive continuous improvement.
- Shape New Systems: Assist in the design, specification, installation, and commissioning of new control system equipment and instrumentation.
- Own the Data: Build, configure, and maintain plant data acquisition and historian systems, ensuring accurate, reliable process data capture for production, quality, and regulatory needs.
- Drive Risk Management: Perform process risk assessments related to control systems and instrumentation, and develop and implement mitigation plans.
- Ensure Measurement Integrity: Conduct periodic process control verifications and instrument calibration reviews to maintain GMP compliance.
- Lead Validation Efforts: Assist in new equipment and control system validation execution and reporting (IQ, OQ, PQ).
- Document and Improve: Support process mapping and P&ID documentation, and assist in documenting control system changes, troubleshooting outcomes, and validation results (deviations, CAPA, change control).
- Build Team Capability: Develop and implement new or revised SOPs for control systems and data acquisition, and provide technical training to plant personnel.
- Champion Compliance: Maintain compliance with safety, GMP, and GLP requirements.
What You Bring
- BS degree in an Engineering discipline required; entry-level candidates will be considered
- Fundamental understanding of process control concepts, instrumentation (flow, pressure, temperature, pH, level), and loop tuning
- Familiarity with PLC programming (ladder logic, function block) and HMI development; Allen-Bradley/Rockwell or equivalent preferred
- Able to perform physical tasks in production areas when required
- Comfortable working as part of a cross-functional, interdisciplinary team
Technical Proficiencies
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; Excel data analysis skills a plus
- Preferred experience with AutoCAD, Autodesk Fusion, or equivalent CAD/drawing platforms for P&ID and electrical drawing creation, review, and redline
- Familiarity with industrial data historians or process data logging platforms preferred
- Proficiency with Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk (View, Historian, AssetCentre) strongly preferred; experience with other DCS/industrial automation platforms (Ignition, Wonderware, or equivalent) also considered
Why Axiota
- True ownership: You'll be the go-to expert shaping how control systems evolve across the plant.
- Work that matters: Your systems directly support the quality and reliability of animal health products used by producers and veterinarians nationwide
- Room to build: This is a role where you can grow from entry-level fundamentals into deep technical ownership, leaving your mark on plant infrastructure for years to come