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Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Lafayette, LA (NOW HIRING)

Partner with engineering, design, supply chain, and global manufacturing teams to architect an end-to-end, future-ready production ecosystem. * Influence senior leaders and peers to align operational ...

Partner with engineering, design, supply chain, and global manufacturing teams to architect an end-to-end, future-ready production ecosystem. * Influence senior leaders and peers to align operational ...

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Showing results 1-20

Manufacturing Engineer information

See Lafayette, LA salary details

$45.4K

$81.8K

$114.6K

How much do manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for manufacturing engineer in Lafayette, LA is $81,759.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,700.00 and $89,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manufacturing engineer?

A manufacturing engineer is a specialized engineer who improves product manufacturing processes. As a manufacturing engineer, your primary duties are to design and develop production systems and improve the tools and systems within the manufacturing process. You will use computer software such as CAD to create, modify, and test the products and manufacturing processes.

What are some common challenges a manufacturing engineer faces in optimizing production processes?

Manufacturing Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing efficiency with product quality, minimizing production costs while maintaining safety standards, and implementing new technologies without disrupting existing workflows. They may also need to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and coordinate with cross-functional teams, such as quality assurance and maintenance, to resolve issues quickly. Staying up-to-date with industry advancements and continuous improvement methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma is essential to overcoming these challenges and driving process enhancements.

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

To thrive as a Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, process optimization, and quality control, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certifications, and experience with automation systems are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you effectively collaborate and drive continuous improvement. These abilities ensure efficient production processes, cost reduction, and high product quality in a competitive manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectManufacturing EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Manufacturing, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering; certifications like CMfgEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, production plants, manufacturing facilitiesDesign offices, research labs, manufacturing settings
Industry UsageManufacturing, production, industrial sectorsAutomotive, aerospace, energy, product design

Manufacturing Engineers focus on optimizing production processes and workflows within manufacturing environments, while Mechanical Engineers design and analyze mechanical systems. Both roles require engineering degrees, but Manufacturing Engineers are more involved in process improvement and production efficiency, whereas Mechanical Engineers often work on product design and mechanical system development.

How much do manufacturing engineers earn?

Manufacturing engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Salaries can increase with advanced skills, certifications, and managerial responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA?

The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA are:

What are popular job titles related to Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA?

For Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA are:

What cities near Lafayette, LA are hiring for Manufacturing Engineer jobs?

Cities near Lafayette, LA with the most Manufacturing Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Lafayette, LA 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 $81,759 per year, or $39.3 per hour.

Engineer- Manufacturing Principal

First Solar

New Iberia, LA • On-site

$112K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


First Solar rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 77 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

460th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description


First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset
Basic Job Functions:
Lead projects, both cross functionally and cross site. Provide technical advice as Subject Matter Expert in respective area. Integrate knowledge of Equipment, Process and/or Device to solve the most challenging problems and identify improvements. Bring new knowledge into the organization and develop technical skill sets within the team. Implement new processes to meet schedule, leading troubleshooting efforts as needed to meet project requirements.
Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline with 2 years as First Solar Manufacturing Engineer III, or 7 years Engineering experience in a manufacturing setting, or 6 years Engineering and 3 years Technical experience in a manufacturing setting or
  • MS Degree in a technical discipline with 2 years as First Solar Manufacturing Engineer III or 6 years engineering experience in a manufacturing setting or
  • PhD Degree in a technical discipline with 2 years as First Solar Manufacturing Engineer III or 5 years' experience in a manufacturing setting

Required Skills:
  • Demonstrated Leadership of large complex projects as primary contact
  • Considered to be subject matter expert in respective discipline and recognized as such across sites
  • Ability to identify and reduces high risk areas in manufacturing setting
  • Excellent understanding respective toolset, functional area and/or process and device
  • Demonstrated technical leadership of teams across multiple functions and factories (for example - Global Alignment Teams)
  • Excellent Technical Presentation Skills
  • Demonstrated expertise to effectively move projects through CMS process efficiently and effectively

Essential Functions & Responsibilities
  • Subject matter expert in specified job role and frequently consulted to engage or self starter in setting procedural standards (BKM), assist (typically lead) root cause analysis, ability to drive change needed to meet current and future departmental goals
  • Identifies improvement priorities, provides assessment of solution options, recommendation of best solution and implements flawlessly
  • May manage a group of technicians
  • Lead Complex Project or Technical Teams cross functionally or cross site
  • Capable of sustaining respective process area, if applicable
  • Evaluate, Install and Qualify new equipment
  • Exceptional vendor management ability
  • Provide mentorship and project oversight to assist in the development of junior engineers
  • Identify training needs and develop and provide training to other engineers, engineering technicians, and production associates
  • Responsible to interface with internal associates and supplier representatives as required to complete assigned projects
  • Maintain effective communication with production associates and manufacturing engineers
  • Adhere to all safety procedures and good housekeeping standards
  • Domestic and International travel as required
  • Area Specific - SME in Area Process

Travel:
  • No travel is required.
  • If hiring to a new plant prior to plant start, associate will be required to spend extended time (60-80%) in another plant in either Ohio or Alabama for training until their assigned plan starts equipment installation

Estimated Salary Range:
  • $112,300 - $160,000, Annually, Bonus 12%

Physical Requirements:
  • Will sit, stand or walk short distances for up to the entire duration of a shift.
  • Will climb stairs on an occasional basis.
  • Will lift, push or pull up to 37 pounds on an occasional basis.
  • Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis.
  • 20/40 vision in both eyes together, with or without correction, is required.
  • Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures.
  • May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.
  • May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis.
  • Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including but not limited to; steel-toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, protective jacket or apron and arm guards, and a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair) for those requiring respirator use.

Potential candidates will meet the education and experience requirements provided on the above job description and excel in completing the listed responsibilities for this role. All candidates receiving an offer of employment must successfully complete a background check band any other tests that may be required.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: First Solar is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that diversity and inclusion is a driving force in the success of our company.

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