Deep familiarity with modern manufacturing processes and when to apply each: CNC machining (3- and 5-axis), injection molding, die casting, sheet metal fabrication, MIM (metal injection molding), investment casting, and surface finishing processes (anodizing, PVD, powder coat); understanding of process tradeoffs across cost, tolerance, lead time, and volume. Demonstrated ability to take a mechanical design from working prototype to production-ready — including DFM iterations, supplier qualification, first-article inspection, and manufacturing yield validation; candidates who have only operated in R&D or prototype-only environments are not a fit for this role.