Mechanical Engineer
About the Role:Continuum Powders is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer for our flagship manufacturing facility producing high-value metal powder for the additive manufacturing industry. This role will use a data-driven and hands-on approach to become a resident expert responsible for all facets of our proprietary equipment and processes. Through daily interaction with our highly skilled technicians and operations supporting cast, this role will lead the effort to drive towards high standards of quality, reliability, and output while keeping safety at the forefront of our mission.This role presents a unique opportunity in an emerging technology industry to converge and apply a complete toolbox of mechanical and manufacturing skillsets, engineering creativity and innovation, diligent problem solving, and rapid cycle solution implementation.Responsibilities:This role is responsible for the Mechanical and Process Engineering for all metal powder production equipment in the facility.Equipment: Proprietary metal foundries convert high value scrap metals (Nickel Superalloys, Titanium alloys, etc.) into fine powder via plasma-arc melting and inert gas atomization; Sieving and blending equipment is used for selective particle size segregation; Other equipment for Powder recycling; Dehumidification; Packaging; etc.Safety: In addition to working safely, the engineer will generate and implement solutions to identified hazards, actively seek potential hazards, and identify opportunities to improve overall safety and ergonomics.Quality: Closely monitor existing equipment telemetry to ensure processes are operating within the established quality parameters. Analyze data trends to continuously improve process quality KPIs. Maintain, update, and develop process documentation and training materials to standardize and control the process. Utilize lean six sigma tools for root cause analysis and prevent reoccurrence.Reliability: Utilize a data-driven method to quantify and analyze equipment uptime and identify causes for disruptions. Systematically address the top downtime reasons by implementing interim and permanent corrective actions in collaboration with the team. Capacity: Identify opportunities to improve throughput KPIs and work with the R&D and design teams collaboratively to test and implement equipment technology upgrades.Productivity: Use lean methodology to identify opportunities to eliminate waste from the process and drive continuous improvement of daily production KPIs.Cross-functional Collaboration: Bridge between Equipment/Process Development and Production. Partner with R&D, Operations, Quality, and EHS to align on execution and manage projects through effective and timely outcomes.Technical Communication: Document and communicate technical efforts and progress to the team and management. Distill raw data into actionable information through summarization and visual representation to highlight clear conclusions and recommendations.Qualifications, Skills, ExperienceB.S. Mechanical Engineering, or other Engineering degree with strong mechanical aptitude or significant experience working directly with mechanical systemsExperience analyzing and improving manufacturing or industrial processesStrong ability to identify key process variables and understand their impactProficiency with data analysis toolsSolid understanding of manufacturing safety and environmental requirementsClear, direct communicator who can work across teamsHighly Desired Experience & Skills:Experience in metal powders, atomization, thermal processing, or similar high-temperature/materials environmentsBackground in Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement frameworksExperience upgrading process monitoring, sensors, or control systemsTrack record of delivering measurable improvements (throughput, yield, cost, etc.)Qualities:Ownership mentality – you don’t wait for direction; you find problems and solve themHands-on – comfortable on the production floor, not just behind a deskFast and pragmatic – you balance rigor with speed and adjust urgency accordinglyDetail-oriented – you care about the numbers and the reality behind themTeam-first – you collaborate, communicate, and get things done with othersEnvironment & Requirements:Office within a production environment (noise, heavy equipment, metal powders)Strict adherence to safety protocols and PPE (respirators, eye protection, etc.)Ability to lift up to 50 lbsFlexibility to support off-shift work when neededTravel: Occasional domestic travel