Junior Process Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Ascentec Engineering is hiring a Manufacturing Engineer II to serve as an experienced technical contributor responsible for independently managing manufacturing processes, leading moderate-complexity NPI projects, and providing technical guidance to junior engineers. This role demonstrates proven capability in process optimization, cost reduction initiatives, and cross-functional collaboration while developing toward advanced technical leadership and strategic process development. The position requires solid hands-on machining knowledge, the ability to analyze engineering drawings for manufacturability, and demonstrated competence in project management.

This position is on-site (not remote/not hybrid) at our Tualatin headquarters and is not eligible for Visa sponsorship or transfer of Visa sponsorship.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

MANUFACTURING PROCESS OWNERSHIP & OPTIMIZATION

Process Development & Refinement:

• Independently develop and implement manufacturing processes for moderate-complexity components and assemblies
• Lead NPI projects from concept through full production transition with minimal oversight
• Optimize existing processes to improve cycle time, yield, and cost-effectiveness
• Design and validate manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and work-holding solutions
• Conduct time studies and establish standard work documentation for production operations

Advanced Problem-Solving:

• Lead root cause analysis investigations for quality escapes and process failures
• Develop and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) with measurable effectiveness
• Apply statistical methods (DOE, capability studies) to optimize process parameters
• Troubleshoot complex machining issues involving multi-axis operations, tight tolerances, and difficult materials
• Identify and eliminate sources of variation in manufacturing processes

Technical Documentation:

• Create comprehensive work instructions, process maps, and control plans
• Develop and maintain process FMEA documentation
• Establish process validation protocols and acceptance criteria
• Document lessons learned and contribute to knowledge base development

MANUFACTURING COST MANAGEMENT & VALUE ENGINEERING

Cost Estimation & Analysis:

• Develop detailed manufacturing cost estimates for new products and process changes
• Conduct make-vs-buy analysis with supporting financial justification
• Identify cost reduction opportunities through process improvement and design optimization
• Track and report cost savings achieved through engineering initiative

Value Engineering Leadership:

• Collaborate with design engineering to optimize product manufacturability
• Propose alternative materials, processes, or manufacturing approaches to reduce costs
• Evaluate emerging manufacturing technologies for potential cost or quality benefits
• Balance cost objectives with quality, delivery, and performance requirements

TECHNICAL MENTORSHIP & TEAM DEVELOPMENT

Peer & Junior Engineer Support:

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to Manufacturing Engineer I team members
• Review and approve work instructions and process documentation prepared by junior engineers
• Serve as subject matter expert for specific manufacturing processes or technologies
• Lead knowledge-sharing sessions on advanced manufacturing techniques

Training Development:

• Develop and deliver training materials for production personnel on new processes
• Create visual aids, training videos, and quick-reference guides
• Assess training effectiveness and implement improvements

PROJECT MANAGEMENT & CROSS-FUNCTIONAL LEADERSHIP

NPI Project Leadership:

• Manage NPI projects involving 3-5 concurrent work streams with interdependencies
• Develop project plans with clear milestones, resource requirements, and success criteria
• Coordinate cross-functional activities across engineering, quality, supply chain, and production
• Proactively identify and mitigate project risks
• Report project status to stakeholders with data-driven analysis

Stakeholder Management:

• Interface with suppliers on technical process development and problem resolution
• Support customer technical reviews and process qualification activities (with PM coordination)
• Collaborate with quality engineering on inspection methods and acceptance criteria
• Partner with production supervision to implement process improvements

QUALITY SYSTEMS & CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

Quality System Contribution:

• Participate in internal and external quality audits as process owner
• Lead closure of audit findings related to manufacturing processes
• Ensure processes comply with ISO9001, AS9100, and customer-specific requirements
• Maintain process validation and control documentation per quality system requirements

Advanced Quality Tools:

• Apply SPC techniques to monitor process capability and stability
• Conduct measurement system analysis (GR&R) studies
• Implement poka-yoke (error-proofing) solutions
• Develop process control plans with appropriate reaction plans

Continuous Improvement Leadership:

• Lead Lean Six Sigma projects targeting specific operational metrics
• Facilitate kaizen events and value stream mapping activities
• Implement 5S workplace organization initiatives
• Track and report improvement project results with validated savings

JOB QUALIFICATIONS / EXPERIENCE AND TECHNICAL SKILLS:

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Industrial Engineering
• 3-5 years of manufacturing engineering experience in precision machining environment
• Demonstrated experience leading NPI projects from design through production
• Experience with CNC programming, setup, troubleshooting, and process optimization

Technical Expertise:

• Intermediate to Advanced Machining Knowledge: Solid understanding of CNC machining operations, multi-axis programming, tooling selection, feeds/speeds optimization, and setup procedures
• Manufacturing Cost Estimation: Ability to analyze engineering drawings and develop accurate manufacturing cost estimates with cycle time analysis
• ERP Systems: Experience with Epicor ERP or similar manufacturing systems for process planning, costing, and project management
• Quality Systems Knowledge: Familiarity with ISO9001 and AS9100 standards, statistical process control, and CAPA methodologies
• Process Improvement: Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt certification preferred)

Leadership & Communication:

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects independently with minimal supervision
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with structured approach to root cause analysis
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences
• Demonstrated ability to mentor junior engineers and contribute to team development
• Effective collaboration skills with cross-functional teams including design, quality, and production

PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• Self-starter / Self-motivated / Flexible / Detail oriented
• Reliable and dependable
• Positive customer-focused attitude
• Enjoy fast-paced and rapidly changing environment
• Honest with good integrity
• Professional demeanor and respectful to people in all situations
• Flexible and willing to help others as needs and tasks change often
• Team player

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Position requires significant time on the production floor conducting process analysis, troubleshooting, and team collaboration
• Office-based work for project management, cost analysis, documentation, and meetings
• Occasional travel to supplier facilities or customer sites (<10% annually)
• May require flexibility for project deadlines and production support requirements
• Physical requirements include walking, standing, and lifting up to 35 lbs in manufacturing environment

COMPENSATION / BENEFITS:

• Salary range: $80,000 - $105,000 DOE with performance-based annual review
• Performance bonus program based on individual and company performance metrics
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with generous company matching contribution
• Professional development support including certification reimbursement and conference attendance
• Paid time off / Paid holidays
• Continuing education opportunities and tuition reimbursement program

Other Requirements:

Applicant must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check prior to employment.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Ascentec Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Ascentec Engineering is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.