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Principal Manufacturing Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Principal Manufacturing Engineer is a senior engineer and technical leader responsible for providing strategic engineering leadership across the Kraft Drive manufacturing campus. This role drives ...

The Principal Manufacturing Engineer is a senior engineer and technical leader responsible for providing strategic engineering leadership across the Kraft Drive manufacturing campus. This role drives ...

The Principal Manufacturing Engineer is a highly experienced, professional recognized as a submit matter expert across the organization, influencing company-wide operations strategies, drives ...

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Principal Manufacturing Engineer information

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$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal manufacturing engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal manufacturing engineer?

Principal Manufacturing Engineers are senior-level professionals who oversee the development, optimization, and implementation of manufacturing processes within an organization. They provide technical leadership, mentor junior engineers, and ensure that production systems operate efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively. Their responsibilities often include process improvement, troubleshooting, equipment selection, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to meet quality and production goals. With significant experience, they play a key role in strategic decision-making and innovation within the manufacturing environment.

How does a principal manufacturing engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during new product introduction (NPI)?

As a Principal Manufacturing Engineer, you will work closely with design, quality, supply chain, and production teams during new product introduction (NPI). Your role is pivotal in translating design concepts into efficient manufacturing processes, ensuring product quality and manufacturability from the earliest stages. Effective collaboration often involves leading design-for-manufacturability reviews, coordinating pilot builds, and troubleshooting process issues alongside team members from different disciplines. This cross-functional engagement is essential for launching products on time and within budget, and it also provides opportunities to mentor junior engineers and influence process improvements across the organization.

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

To thrive as a Principal Manufacturing Engineer, you need deep expertise in manufacturing processes, process optimization, and a relevant engineering degree, often with several years of hands-on experience. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certifications, and ERP systems is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills set top candidates apart in this role. These capabilities ensure efficient production, continuous process improvement, and effective cross-functional collaboration to meet organizational goals.

What is the difference between Principal Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, often with certifications like Six SigmaBachelor's in Engineering or related field, sometimes with certifications
Work EnvironmentLead projects, oversee manufacturing processes, collaborate with cross-functional teamsSupport manufacturing operations, troubleshoot issues, implement process improvements
Industry UsageUsed in large manufacturing firms, OEMs, and high-volume productionCommon across various manufacturing sectors, including automotive, electronics, and consumer goods

The Principal Manufacturing Engineer typically holds a senior technical role focused on leading manufacturing initiatives, while the Manufacturing Engineer supports daily operations and process improvements. Both roles require engineering credentials and are integral to manufacturing success, but the principal role involves more strategic oversight and leadership.

How much does a principal manufacturing engineer make?

A principal manufacturing engineer typically earns between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often have advanced skills in process optimization, quality control, and engineering management, which can influence salary levels.
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Cities with the most Principal Manufacturing Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Principal Manufacturing Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Principal Manufacturing Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Manufacturing Engineer jobs?

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Infographic showing various Principal Manufacturing Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Internship, and 87% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.

Principal Manufacturing Engineer

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

About the Opportunity
Avenue Technologies is seeking a Principal Manufacturing Engineer to support technical, engineering, and program teams in a hands-on environment.
What You Will Do
  • Develop and improve manufacturing processes, work instructions, routing, and production documentation.
  • Create and maintain Manufacturing Data Packages (MDPs), including assembly instructions, labor standards, tools, and fixtures.
  • Support manufacturing teams with process troubleshooting, engineering changes, and production issue resolution.
  • Lead or support root cause, corrective action, and continuous improvement activities using data-driven methods.

Helpful Skills
  • software development
  • test equipment
  • RF

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM or related field is preferred or required based on the role.
  • Relevant experience in the applicable technical discipline.
  • Strong communication, ownership, and problem-solving skills.