Manufacturing Engineer

Job Title: Manufacturing EngineerDirect Hire Opening; Company Benefits 401K, Health, Dental, Vision, Life, BonusLocation: Richmond, VA (1st and 2nd Shift opportunities available) *2nd Shift will pay a shift differential - Higher Salary Position Overview:As a Manufacturing Engineer, you will play a critical role in supporting production operations by designing, implementing, and improving manufacturing processes. This is a hands-on role requiring significant time on the production floor, working closely with operators, maintenance, and leadership to drive efficiency, reliability, and continuous improvement. You will also serve as a key link between Sales/Applications Engineering and Production, helping ensure successful execution of projects and ongoing operational excellence.Key Responsibilities:Spend time on the manufacturing floor observing, documenting, and improving machine performance, process reliability, and production throughputCollaborate with Production, Maintenance, Quality, and Safety teams to troubleshoot and resolve mechanical and electrical issues using root cause analysisEngage employees at all levels to gather input, build trust, and gain buy-in for continuous improvement initiativesManage capital and expense projects from concept through completion, including research, justification, scheduling, installation, training, and handoffDevelop project timelines, milestones, and countermeasures to ensure deadlines are metIdentify inefficiencies, eliminate waste, and implement process improvements to increase productivity and throughputDesign and develop custom tooling, fixtures, and equipment layouts to improve manufacturing systemsClearly communicate project plans, updates, and results using data analysis and hands-on observationsDevelop SOPs, work instructions, and best practices to support safe and efficient operationsTrain production and maintenance personnel to ensure process consistency, safety, and reliabilityRequirements:Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience3+ years of experience in a manufacturing or production engineering roleExperience working in a custom or high-mix manufacturing environment preferredStrong understanding of mechanical systems, automation, and industrial equipmentProven ability to manage projects from concept through implementationProficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar)Familiarity with TPM, predictive maintenance, and reliability-centered maintenanceStrong communication skills across all levels of the organizationAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentHands-on, self-driven individual with strong problem-solving skillsHigh level of ownership, accountability, and adaptabilityAbility to work 1st shift hours (6:00 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.)Background and Drug Test will be required