Manufacturing Engineer Technology Jobs in Portland, OR

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.