Manufacturing Technician Traditional CNC 

Position Summary

The Engineering Technician supports Contract Manufacturing operations by providing hands-on technical expertise in machining, fabrication, CAD/CAM programming, and tooling development. This role is critical in supporting fast-turn customer projects, new product introductions (NPI), and ongoing production optimization.

Working in a dynamic, high-mix/low-to-mid volume environment, this individual must be self-motivated, adaptable, and capable of converting customer drawings and engineering concepts into production-ready tooling and components. The Engineering Technician plays a key role in improving Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost performance through practical problem-solving and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Machining & Fabrication Support

• Set up and operate manual, hybrid and CNC milling machines for tooling and component fabrication
• Operate manual lathe equipment for precision part production and repair
• Perform TIG and MIG welding for tooling, fixtures, frames, and equipment modifications
• Fabricate, modify, and repair production tooling, fixtures, and machine components
• Support prototype builds and short-run production projects
• Maintain strict adherence to safety and quality standards

CAD/CAM & Design Support

• Create and modify 3D models and 2D drawings using SolidWorks
• Generate and optimize toolpaths using CAM software
• Interpret customer prints, GD&T, and engineering specifications
• Support design-for-manufacturability (DFM) improvements
• Maintain accurate revision control and documentation for customer-driven projects

Tooling & Process Development

• Assist in the design and development of production tooling and fixtures
• Apply tooling design best practices including repeatability, rigidity, and ease of use
• Incorporate error-proofing (poka-yoke) concepts into tooling designs
• Support automation-ready tooling concepts including sensor integration and I/O considerations
• Evaluate tooling performance and recommend improvements to improve OEE and throughput

Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement

• Diagnose and resolve machining, tooling, and process issues
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions
• Provide hands-on technical support to production teams
• Drive improvements in setup reduction, cycle time, yield, and labor efficiency
• Support preventative maintenance and equipment reliability efforts

Qualifications

Required

• Associate degree in Engineering Technology, Manufacturing Technology, or equivalent experience
• Proficiency in SolidWorks (3D modeling and drawing creation)
• Experience with CAD/CAM programming
• Strong hands-on experience with manual and CNC milling machines
• Experience operating a manual lathe
• Skilled in TIG and MIG welding
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and GD&T
• Strong troubleshooting and mechanical aptitude
• Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Preferred

• Experience in a high-mix contract manufacturing environment
• Experience supporting NPI and customer-driven projects

Core Competencies

• Ownership and urgency in supporting customer commitments
• Strong problem-solving mindset
• Cross-functional collaboration with Production, Quality, and Engineering
• Attention to detail and craftsmanship
• Continuous improvement orientation
• Adaptability in a fast-paced manufacturing environment