Manufacturing Engineer

This Manufacturing Engineer position is based at the Gibson Acoustic site in Bozeman, MT and provides support and solutions to the high mix/low volume Production function. The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, coordinating, and implementing production improvements and efficiency projects. The Manufacturing Engineer brings a wide range of skills and experience in a hands-on approach to expand capabilities in process design, fabrication, programming, assembly, and tooling. Collaboration with cross-functional team members is essential, as well as mentoring and developing key members within this function's team.

Essential Functions

Main duties

• Supports and drives stability of processes in a high-skilled production environment

• Develops and implements complex improvements to manufacturing process, equipment, production design, tool or machines, and methods to ensure maximum manufacturing capability

• Responsible for designing and implementing production jigs, fixtures, and machinery unique to guitar manufacturing

• Investigates various options and develops required layouts for new and current process methods or production areas to maximize manufacturing

• Solicits, analyzes and negotiates quotes on capital equipment to ensure cost effectiveness

• Stays attuned to latest technology and its applications within the business

• Provides documentation for processes and methods that support standardization

• Fabrication and assembling of mechanical equipment that meet production requirements

• Working with peers, evaluates and initiates cost reduction projects to improve manufacturing processes using business-minded judgement

• Collaboratively evaluates feasibility or cost reduction studies making recommendations that support manufacturing and profitability

• Applies lean manufacturing principles effectively to reduce cycle time, balance labor methods, and improve process capability

• Effective planning/preparation for new product introductions

Other duties

• Employee can be asked to perform other duties that are reasonable within the area of expertise

Required Skills/Abilities

Skills and Competencies

• 2-4 year of manufacturing engineering experience

• PLC programming experience

• Hands on approach. Willingness to roll up sleeves and dig into projects.

• Teamwork and project management skills combined with ability to work as part of a team

• Excellent written and oral communication skills

• Outstanding time management skillset with the ability to prioritize without direct supervision

• Advanced understanding of applicable OSHA regulatory requirements in the workplace

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with staff members

• Competent in problem solving, team building, planning and decision making

• Results oriented and driven, with a track record for delivering to plan

• Flexibility to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. Able to proactively question and challenge to prioritize and identify solutions in timely manner

• Relish working in a company with a diverse and fast paced environment

• A self-starter who works with an inherent sense of urgency

• Able to proactively question and challenge to prioritize and identify solutions in a timely manner

• Active Listening; Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively to solve issues

Knowledge

• Strong knowledge of engineering concepts, including electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical systems

Education and Experience

• B.S. degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Industrial Engineering

• 2+ years of experience (manufacturing environment is a requirement)

• Experience implementing automated solutions

• Design and analyze tooling for machining and assembly

• Computer aided design (CAD) software (Solidworks, Fusion 360, Mastercam, etc.)

• Experience working in and deploying Lean Manufacturing concepts

• MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

• PLC programming

Work Environment

• Internal:

• Manufacturing locations

• Office locations

• Showroom

• External:

• Supplier manufacturing locations

Travel Requirements

Periodic travel to and between the company's manufacturing locations may be required (5-10%).

Physical Demands

Basic physical stances and actions (sitting, standing, walking)