Sr. Manufacturing Engineer

Senior Manufacturing EngineerLocation: Asheville, NC | Type: On-site | Compensation: $90,000–$100,000 base salary

An automotive component manufacturer is looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to deliver technical process support for high-volume automated assembly operations. In this role, you will collaborate closely with maintenance, quality, and production departments to optimize line efficiency, address technical challenges, and oversee the integration of new production machinery.

Core Responsibilities* Ensure daily manufacturing operations run smoothly by identifying and resolving process or equipment malfunctions that impact throughput, quality, safety, or uptime.

• Drive initiatives for continuous improvement while developing, refining, and validating standardized work instructions for operators.
• Conduct thorough root cause analyses utilizing 8D or similar frameworks to implement and validate the long-term effectiveness of corrective measures.
• Enhance material handling, automated machine tending, and assembly workflows involving robotic cells, vision systems, torque tools, servo presses, and gauging equipment.
• Manage the full lifecycle of equipment and tooling projects, from defining specifications and evaluating vendor quotes to overseeing installation and final production commissioning.
• Utilize project timelines, PFMEAs, and process mapping to effectively coordinate equipment launches and process modifications.
• Collaborate across departments to boost manufacturability and reliability, while analyzing production costs, equipment layouts, and labor workflows to drive operational excellence.

Professional Requirements* Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline, with a preference for electromechanical or mechanical backgrounds.

• Minimum of five years of experience in a manufacturing engineering capacity, specifically involving hands-on support for automated assembly lines.
• Proven track record in executing root cause analysis, managing continuous improvement efforts, and creating operator documentation.
• Solid understanding of APQP principles and high proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong technical troubleshooting capabilities and the interpersonal skills to engage effectively with maintenance staff and production operators.

Preferred Qualifications* Background in commercial vehicle or Tier 1 automotive component manufacturing.

• Familiarity with statistical analysis, 5S, PPAP, or lean manufacturing methodologies.
• Experience working with robotic assembly, DC electric torque systems, servo presses, or Cognex vision and Allen-Bradley PLC controls.
• Proficiency in SAP or CAD design software.

Hiring Steps

The selection process includes a preliminary interview via Microsoft Teams followed by an in-person site visit.

Key competencies include:

• Continuous Improvement
• PPAP Process Experience
• Root Cause Analysis
• Electromechanical Troubleshooting
• Mechanical Troubleshooting

Technical environment includes:

• Allen-Bradley PLC