Senior Manufacturing Engineer
Cranbury, NJ
JAKTOOL is looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer who is responsible for leading the design, development, and optimization of advanced prototype and production manufacturing processes. This role applies deep engineering expertise and judgment to ensure quality, innovation, and efficiency while mentoring junior engineers and technicians. The Senior Manufacturing Engineer drives strategic initiatives, leads cross-functional projects, and serves as a technical authority in manufacturing engineering.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead the development and validation of complex manufacturing processes and documentation, including tooling strategies, fixture design, machining and finishing processes, work instructions, and control plans.
- Engineer, validate, and approve custom tooling and fixtures to support prototype and production requirements.
- Apply advanced knowledge of GD&T and engineering principles to ensure precision and manufacturability.
- Direct the interpretation of precision inspection and validation data to verify compliance with engineering and quality standards.
- Manage and optimize resources to maximize throughput and meet program schedules.
- Research, evaluate, and implement emerging technologies, materials, and processes to maintain competitive advantage.
- Lead cross-functional teams in product development and design reviews, ensuring manufacturability and cost-effectiveness are addressed early in the design cycle.
- Collaborate with quality, design, and operations teams to establish and improve operating procedures, resolve complex technical challenges, and provide authoritative guidance.
- Apply advanced problem-solving techniques, including root cause analysis and statistical methods, to develop robust, sustainable solutions.
- Mentor and train junior engineers, technicians, and machinists in best practices, process design, and problem-solving methods.
- Provide strategic input to leadership on long-term manufacturing capabilities and investments.
EDUCATION:
- Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited course of study in engineering.
- Equivalent combination of advanced education and directly relevant professional experience may be considered as an alternative
SKILLS + EXPERIENCE:
- 7+ years of professional experience in manufacturing engineering, process development, or CNC engineering.
- Proven experience leading complex manufacturing projects from concept through validation and production.
- Advanced proficiency in CNC programming and process validation with an emphasis on design, oversight, and optimization rather than direct production operation.
- Strong familiarity with CAD/CAM software (e.g., Mastercam) and CNC platforms (e.g., HAAS, DMG Mori).
- Experience working in ISO 9001 or other quality-regulated environments.
- Demonstrated success in mentoring and developing junior engineers/technicians.
- Excellent communication and leadership skills with ability to influence at all organizational levels.