Manufacturing Specialist

Job Summary

The Manufacturing Specialist supports manufacturing operations with a primary focus on new product introduction and production process development. This position translates customer design data and purchase order requirements into effective manufacturing processes, documentation, and work instructions used by production personnel.

The Manufacturing Specialist works closely with Production, Engineering, Material Services, Quality, Customer Service, customers, vendors, and management to ensure products are manufactured accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable requirements. This role also identifies opportunities for process improvement, evaluates production methods and equipment, supports cost analysis, and assists with quality and compliance initiatives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Evaluate customer design data and production requirements using manufacturing knowledge, process expertise, analytical skills, troubleshooting capabilities, and compliance awareness to support new product manufacturing.
• Develop, write, revise, and maintain manufacturing documentation, including standard operating procedures, procedure manuals, production work instructions, and related process documentation.
• Translate engineering and customer requirements into practical manufacturing processes and detailed production instructions.
• Determine efficient production methods, including appropriate machinery, tooling, fixtures, manufacturing processes, and outside vendor requirements.
• Estimate labor and material requirements and evaluate production costs, potential cost savings, and the financial impact of design or process changes.
• Collaborate with customers, vendors, Production, Engineering, Quality, Material Services, Customer Service, and management regarding technical requirements, manufacturing specifications, capabilities, and project status.
• Identify, develop, and implement process improvements and equipment upgrades using continuous improvement principles and practices.
• Participate as a member of cross-functional teams investigating quality escapes and assist with the development and implementation of corrective action plans.
• Support AS9100 certification activities and external audits by providing information and responding to questions related to change control, manufacturing processes, and new product introduction.
• Monitor manufacturing processes and recommend improvements that promote quality, efficiency, consistency, and compliance.
• Provide technical input regarding manufacturing capabilities, production methods, tooling, equipment, and process requirements.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Training or education in manufacturing technology, machining, engineering technology, or a related technical field through a trade school, military program, industry training, college coursework, or equivalent experience.

Experience

• Minimum of five years of experience in machine processing and metal-cutting manufacturing.
• Experience interpreting engineering/design drawings and specifications.
• Experience developing production work instructions and manufacturing documentation.
• Working knowledge of machine shop and production manufacturing processes.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, design specifications, and technical documentation.
• Understanding of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Working knowledge of shop mathematics.
• Knowledge of machine shop operations and manufacturing processes.
• Understanding of tooling, fixtures, and CNC machine operations and procedures.
• Ability to analyze manufacturing processes and troubleshoot production issues.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, customers, vendors, and management.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications and internet-based resources.
• Ability to develop clear, accurate, and detailed production documentation.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills with attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree in Manufacturing Technology or another related technical field.
• Significant post-secondary coursework in a technical or manufacturing-related field combined with relevant manufacturing experience.
• Working knowledge of AS9100 quality systems and compliance requirements.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with CAD/CAM systems, such as AutoCAD or similar software.
• Knowledge of business economics, including production cost estimation and the potential profit impact of manufacturing decisions.
• Experience supporting new product introduction within an aerospace or similarly regulated manufacturing environment.

Regulatory and Technical Knowledge

The position may utilize or reference applicable company procedures, quality systems, technical manuals, and industry standards, including:

• AS9100 / ISO 9001 quality standards
• FAR Part 21
• Standard Practice and company procedure manuals
• Structural Repair Manuals (SRM)
• Aircraft Maintenance Manuals (AMM)
• Component Maintenance Manuals (CMM)
• OEM product standards and specifications

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

The position operates in a combination of office and manufacturing/shop environments.

The role may require:

• Light lifting and carrying of items weighing approximately 25 pounds.
• Occasional bending, stooping, twisting, walking, sitting, standing, reaching, handling, fingering, feeling, kneeling, crouching, pushing, pulling, and climbing stairs.
• Effective use of visual acuity, depth perception, hand-eye coordination, hearing, and verbal communication.
• Ability to work effectively in both office and manufacturing environments.

Travel

• Infrequent travel may be required based on business and project needs.