Manufacturing Engineer

As a Manufacturing Engineer at MTS Systems Corporation, your primary responsibilities will encompass developing efficient manufacturing processes and ensuring that products meet performance and quality standards. You'll assess factory capabilities, determine workflow requirements, and maintain documentation for all processes. Additionally, you'll provide support to internal teams and external suppliers during various product lifecycle phases, driving productivity and quality improvements.

To qualify for the Manufacturing Engineer role at MTS Systems Corporation, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Manufacturing, along with 3-5 years of professional engineering experience. Strong communication skills, computer proficiency, and a technical aptitude are essential, as well as a willingness to support multiple shifts when needed. Experience in lean and six sigma methodologies is a plus.

A Manufacturing Engineer at MTS Systems Corporation can contribute to cost reduction by applying value engineering techniques to existing products, reducing manufacturing costs through innovative solutions, and developing cost estimates for new products. By assessing the overall manufacturability of new designs, you can also identify opportunities for enhancements that promote both effectiveness and efficiency.

Manufacturing Engineers at MTS Systems Corporation can access extensive career growth opportunities through continued learning, innovation projects, and collaboration with experienced colleagues. The company promotes a dynamic culture of continuous improvement, allowing you to expand your knowledge and skill set, ultimately contributing to your professional development and advancement.

Yes, MTS Systems Corporation is committed to employee development. As a Manufacturing Engineer, you will have access to various training opportunities that will enhance your skills and knowledge in the field. This supportive environment encourages innovation and continuous learning, vital for your career progression.

When developing new manufacturing processes, I first assess the current capabilities of the factory and identify any areas for improvement. I prioritize efficiency and quality, using lean methodologies to optimize workflow and reduce waste. Collaboration with cross-functional teams is essential, as it allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the requirements and potential challenges.

In my previous roles, I have utilized value engineering techniques by analyzing existing products and identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality. This involved re-evaluating material choices, manufacturing methods, and supply chain logistics to create more cost-effective solutions while maintaining performance standards.

I ensure that manufacturing and quality standards are met by implementing well-defined procedures and documentation throughout the product development lifecycle. Close collaboration with quality assurance teams allows us to establish critical metrics early in the process, which helps identify and address potential issues proactively.

To resolve manufacturing issues, I first gather data to understand the root causes and then brainstorm potential solutions with my team. Techniques such as root cause analysis and the 5 Whys method help pinpoint specific challenges. If necessary, I engage with external suppliers or technical experts to incorporate valuable insights and solutions.

When assessing the need for capital equipment and tooling, I analyze production requirements, efficiency goals, and financial implications. Building a strong business case based on cost-benefit analysis is essential, which involves justifying the investment relative to potential productivity gains and return on investment.

Assessing a new design's manufacturability involves evaluating the design against manufacturing capabilities and cost-effectiveness. I consider factors such as material selection, assembly processes, and component tolerances while collaborating with design engineers to provide feedback and develop alternatives that align better with manufacturing efficiencies.

I have extensive experience with lean manufacturing methodologies, having successfully implemented initiatives that streamlined processes and reduced waste in my previous roles. Regular training and seminars have kept my skills sharp, allowing me to contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and engage team members in lean practices.

Teamwork is essential in manufacturing engineering because it promotes collaboration across departments, ensuring that all perspectives are considered in the manufacturing process. Engaging with diverse teams fosters innovation and accelerates problem-solving, leading to more effective and efficient manufacturing solutions.

Managing multiple projects in a manufacturing environment requires strong organizational skills and prioritization. I rely on project management tools to track progress and deadlines while communicating regularly with team members to ensure alignment. Setting realistic goals and milestones helps keep projects on track and allows me to adapt as needed.

In my last position, I led a project to analyze and redesign a specific assembly line process. By implementing automated tools and reorganizing the workflow, we reduced assembly time by 30% while enhancing product quality. The success of this project demonstrated the value of continuous improvement initiatives in manufacturing.