What Is a Manufacturing Engineer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

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.

To become a manufacturing engineer you need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Manufacturing engineers have advanced skills in math and science, are organized, analytical thinkers, and work well in team environments. Your responsibilities as a manufacturing engineer include designing, developing, and testing the product manufacturing process. Some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in engineering as well as certification. You can become a Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) through the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME).

Manufacturing engineers work in a variety of industry settings with a broad range of products, including food and beverages, plastics, computer parts, and pharmaceuticals. Manufacturing engineers often spend part of their time in a typical corporate environment—at a desk or in meetings with other engineers—and part of their time on the factory floor, observing and testing the manufacturing process itself.

Manufacturing engineering is a well-paying, well-regarded job with a strong career outlook—The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment in this field is projected to grow 9% from 2016 to 2026. It is a good career if you enjoy a challenging work environment with both individual project work and team interaction. Manufacturing engineers have a high level of career satisfaction and generally stay in the profession long-term.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to develop highly-efficient equipment and help us streamline operations. You must have extensive knowledge of manufacturing production processes, especially with creating and monitoring automated systems. Once your designs are approved, you will oversee the implementation and testing of the new methods, making adjustments as necessary. The goal is to create products that meet all specifications and quality standards with the most cost-effective process. Our ideal candidate has at least five years of industry experience and an extensive portfolio of successful operations.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assess and analyze current manufacturing processes
• Assist in the creation of new products, work processes, and other manufacturing needs
• Develop and draft a plan for all manufacturing procedures
• Develop and implement efficient quality control processes andcost-saving measures
• Test all equipment for safety and effectiveness
• Repair or redesign malfunctioning equipment
• Direct and oversee the full lifecycle of a product's manufacturing process, including design, construction, packaging and quality control
• Educate, train, and supervise new employees on current manufacturing and workflow processes

Requirements and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in manufacturing, industrial, mechanical, or related engineering field
• 5+ years of manufacturing experience
• Proficient in data analysis programs and Microsoft Suite
• Experience using CAD (computer-aided design) and CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) software a major plus
• Effective management skills