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Principal Manufacturing Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

Principal, Manufacturing Engineering Job Code: 36832 Job Location: Camden, AR Job Schedule: 4/10: Employees work 10 hour days, 4 days a week L3Harris is seeking a Principal, Manufacturing Engineer to ...

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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 Jul 14, 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 are Principal Manufacturing Engineers?

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.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Principal Manufacturing Engineers and other senior engineering roles in specialized fields such as aerospace, semiconductor, or chemical manufacturing can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, reflecting high-level expertise and management duties.

How much do principal manufacturing engineers make?

Principal manufacturing engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $100,000 and $130,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often have advanced skills in process optimization, automation, and quality control, and may hold certifications such as Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing.

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 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 engineers make $500,000 a year?

Principal Manufacturing Engineers in high-demand industries such as aerospace, semiconductor, or specialized manufacturing can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, reflecting the complexity and responsibility of the position.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Principal Manufacturing Engineers and other senior engineering roles in specialized fields such as aerospace, semiconductor, or chemical manufacturing can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and company size, often including bonuses and stock options.
More about Principal Manufacturing Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Principal Manufacturing Engineer jobs? 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:

Principal Manufacturing Engineer

Laborie

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$145K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

We believe that great healthcare is an essential safeguard of human dignity.
At Laborie, we know the work we do matters - it's what fuels our motivation and contributes to our success. If you're ready to make a positive impact in the lives of patients across the globe, we'd like to meet you.
We support and empower our employees to grow their careers in an environment that encourages a sense of belonging and a connection to doing good. We're not afraid to roll up our sleeves to make our goals a reality and work together to solve for our customers. We reward and recognize our employees based on our values ofAspire to Greatness, Respect All, Own It, Working Together, Persist with Passion.
Who We're Looking For:
As a key member of the Manufacturing team, the Principal Manufacturing Engineer will assist in creating strategies and systems which allow all Laborie sites to assess operational needs. The role will aid others in investigating, recommending and implementing improvements include process, equipment, and automation used in manufacturing. The Principal Manufacturing Engineer is a highly experienced, professional recognized as a submit matter expert across the organization, influencing company-wide operations strategies, drives functional initiatives, and will mentor junior engineers.
About the Role:
  • Act as corporate SME, providing technical leadership, guiding operational strategy, and advising on new product development and design changes.
  • Lead high-impact, cross-functional projects, partnering with executive leadership to align manufacturing initiatives with business objectives and growth strategies, including acquisition evaluations.
  • Drive manufacturing excellence and efficiency by optimizing workflows, conducting time studies, improving line layouts, implementing Lean initiatives to reduce cycle time and stabilize production.
  • Own design transfer and production readiness, collaborating cross-functionally to implement new products and updates while training and mentoring technicians and engineering teams.
  • Lead validation and qualification activities (IQ, OQ, PQ, MSA) ensuring compliance with ISO standards and robust process capability.
  • Improve product and process quality by defining testing methods, establishing standards, and ensuring manufacturing processes meet regulatory and performance requirements.
  • Provide data-driven insights through costs analysis, production planning, and reporting, including labor/material forecasting and performance trend analysis.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • 12+ years' experience as Manufacturing/Production Engineer (or 8+ with Master's), preferably in medical device industry; Bachelor's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Manufacturing Engineering required.
  • Proven expertise in manufacturing operations, quality, and product development, including Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles.
  • Hands-on experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred), SolidWorks, and Microsoft Office tools.
  • Strong background in Lean Manufacturing methodologies and continuous improvement practices.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead projects, meet tight deadlines, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
  • Working knowledge of ISO 13485/ISO 9000 standards, health & safety regulations, and strong organizational/time management skills.
  • Ability to travel 25%
Why Laborie:
Our Mission every day is to operate as a world-class specialist medical company making and advancing technologies that preserve and restore human dignity. We do that today by helping people with pelvic and gastrointestinal conditions live normal lives, and by helping mothers and babies have safe deliveries.
  • Paid time off and paid volunteer time
  • Medical, Dental, Vision and Flexible Spending Account
  • Health Savings Account with Company Funded Contributions
  • 401k Retirement Plan with Company Match
  • Parental Leave and Adoption Services
  • Health and Wellness Programs and Events
  • Awarded 2025 Cigna Healthy Workforce Designation Gold Level

Laborieprovidesequal employment opportunities and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Laborie is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in our services, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities.
Employment Type: Full time