Job Title:
Manufacturing Process Technical Writer (CNC, Welding)
Type of Position:
This is a contract-to-hire opportunity with no fixed end date (not a temporary role). The intention is to evaluate the contractor for direct hire conversion, using the contract period as an initial performance and fit evaluation period. Conversion commonly occurs around 6 to 8 months, though it may happen as early as 3 months or later depending on performance, attendance, business needs, and internal approval. This role is intended for candidates seeking long-term employment.
Candidate Requirements:
This role supports a major defense contractor and requires candidates to be either U.S. Citizens or U.S. Permanent Residents/Green Card holders to meet ITAR compliance requirements. Candidates who require or currently hold work authorization through F1-CPT, F1-OPT, H-1B, TN, or other temporary visa classifications are not eligible for this role. Due to the nature of the work and federal contractor requirements, offers may be contingent upon successfully completing a background check and drug screening, which may include testing for cannabis. There are no exceptions to this requirement, including for medical marijuana cardholders.
Job Location:
Aiken, SC (on site role).
Compensation:
$38.37/hr. Overtime paid at 1.5x over 40 hours.
Benefits:
- Available (health insurance, dental, vision, 401k, etc) – benefit eligibility begins the 1st of the month after 30 days of employment.
- This role will have 7 days PTO (PTO accrues over time). In going direct hire, there will be significantly more PTO.
Overview:
HRU Technical Resources is partnering with a leading defense contractor to hire a Manufacturing Process Technical Writer (CNC, Welding). This role develops clear, standardized manufacturing work instructions for CNC machining and welding operations, serving as the critical link between Engineering and Manufacturing. The Author translates complex engineering requirements into practical, step-by-step documentation that enables safe, repeatable, and efficient production. Working within a multidisciplinary Manufacturing Engineering team, this person spends significant time on the production floor with engineers, machinists, welders, and operators to observe processes, validate workflows, and reduce variation, scrap, and quality issues.
Key Responsibilities:
Technical Documentation
- Develop detailed work instructions, SOPs, and process routings for CNC machining and welding operations
- Translate engineering drawings, specifications, and process requirements into clear, step-by-step documentation
- Use CAD software to create process illustrations, work instruction graphics, and tooling and fixture diagrams
- Maintain and update documentation to reflect engineering changes and process improvements
Manufacturing Process Development
- Observe production processes on the floor to validate workflows and identify opportunities for improvement
- Develop standardized, repeatable methods that improve quality and efficiency
- Analyze workflows for potential failure points and apply error-proofing (Poka-Yoke) principles
- Support continuous improvement initiatives that reduce scrap and increase efficiency
Collaboration & Quality
- Partner with Manufacturing Engineers, Supervisors, Machinists, Welders, and Operators to develop accurate instructions
- Gather operator feedback and incorporate practical shop-floor knowledge into documentation
- Integrate quality inspection points and verification steps into work instructions
- Support new product introductions and process changes with updated documentation
Requirements:
Education
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in: Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Technology or a related technical field is preferred. Equivalent professional experience as a senior machinist, welding lead, or manufacturing technical specialist with demonstrated experience in process improvement and technical documentation will also be considered.
- High school diploma OR GED is required at a minimum.
Experience
- Experience working in a CNC machining and/or welding production environment
- Demonstrated track record authoring work instructions, SOPs, or process routings
- Experience collaborating across Engineering and Manufacturing teams
- Familiarity integrating quality inspection requirements into manufacturing processes
Technical Skills
- Strong technical writing with the ability to communicate complex manufacturing processes clearly
- Proficiency with CAD software for creating manufacturing illustrations and visual documentation
- Solid understanding of CNC machining, welding operations, tooling, fixtures, and workholding systems
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and manufacturing specifications
Preferred Qualifications:
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and Poka-Yoke (error-proofing) methodologies
- Experience supporting continuous improvement initiatives and high-volume manufacturing environments
- Familiarity with quality management systems and manufacturing process validation
Work Environment:
- This is a 1st (day) shift role. This role follows a 9/80 schedule, with 9-hour days Monday through Thursday, an 8-hour workday every other Friday, and the alternate Friday off.
- There may be occasional overtime in this role. Any OT will be paid at 1.5x.
- This will be an on-site role (no remote work).
- Offer may be contingent on a background check and a drug screening, which would include testing for cannabis. There would be no exceptions to the drug screening (eg: for individuals with a medical marijuana card).
- HRU is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). We are committed to creating a diverse environment and are proud to be an employer of choice. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
How to Apply for This Job:
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