Job Title:
Manufacturing Engineer
Company: Steel & O'Brien Manufacturing Inc.
Location: West Chester, OH
Created: 2026-05-09
Job Type: Full Time
Job Description:
Position Summary:The Manufacturing Engineer - Fabrication & Finishing is responsible for the design, setup, optimization, and ongoing support of fabrication and finishing processes within the manufacturing facility. This role focuses on non-welding production equipment, including but not limited to tube forming and branching systems (T-Drills), tube cutting lasers, part cleaning and washing systems, and passivation or surface treatment processes. The position plays a critical role in facility startup, equipment commissioning, and continuous improvement to ensure safe, repeatable, and efficient production operations.The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic manufacturing environment and be passionate about making their mark on a new facility in a growing division. Learn more at Primary Job Duties:Fabrication s Finishing Equipment OwnershipLead the layout, setup, and commissioning of fabrication and finishing equipment,including T-Drills, tube cutting lasers, deburring systems, parts washers, and passivation systems.Support selection, procurement, installation, and validation of production equipment.Coordinate with Facilities, Engineering, and EHS teams to ensure proper utilities, ventilation, drainage, chemical handling, and safety systems.Manufacturing Engineering s Process DevelopmentDevelop, document, and optimize fabrication and finishing processes to support production requirements.Create and maintain work instructions, standard work, and process documentation for assigned equipment and processes.Establish process parameters, quality controls, and inspection points to ensure repeatability and product quality.Support new product introductions (NPI) by developing production-ready fabrication and finishing processes.Laser s Automated Equipment SupportSupport setup, programming coordination, and optimization of tube cutting laser systems.Collaborate with automation vendors and integrators during equipment commissioning and upgrades.Optimize material flow, fixturing, and part handling to support automated equipment performance.Cleaning, Passivation s Surface TreatmentOwn part cleaning, washing, and passivation processes to ensure compliance with quality and customer requirements.Develop process controls for chemical concentration, temperature, cycle time, and rinse effectiveness.Partner with Quality and EHS teams to ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and wastewater.Production Support s TroubleshootingProvide hands-on support to production for fabrication and finishing-related issues.Troubleshoot equipment performance, process variability, and quality issues.Collaborate with Maintenance to improve equipment reliability and uptime.Continuous ImprovementAnalyze performance data including cycle time, yield, scrap, rework, and equipment uptime.Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, cost, and throughput.Support Lean initiatives such as 5S, SMED, standard work, and mistake-proofing (poka- yoke).Cross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with Quality, Industrial Engineering, Automation, Maintenance, and Operations teams.Support layout changes, equipment relocations, and facility expansions related to fabrication and finishing processes.Qualifications:RequiredBachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical field (or equivalent experience).3-7+ years of experience in fabrication, machining, or finishing operations in a manufacturing environment.Hands-on experience with fabrication equipment such as tube lasers, forming systems, or industrial washers.Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and process documentation.Strong problem-solving and process optimization skills.PreferredExperience with passivation, chemical cleaning, or surface treatment processes.Experience supporting greenfield facility startups or major equipment installations.Familiarity with laser cutting technology and automation.Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification.Key CompetenciesStrong manufacturing process ownershipEquipment commissioning and startup executionData-driven problem solvingCross-functional collaborationSafety and compliance awarenessClear technical documentation and communicationPerformance MetricsSuccessful commissioning and ramp-up of fabrication and finishing equipmentProcess stability and repeatabilityReduction in scrap, rework, and downtimeThroughput and cycle time improvementsOn-time support of production and NPI timelinesCulture:Foster a collaborative and positive work environment, ensuring clear and respectful communication across all levels of the organizationActively drive change by encouraging and implementing cross-functional improvements that enhance operational efficiency and product qualityRespectfully listen to concerns and ideas brought to your attentionRespect confidentialityEmbody our values of Integrity, Trust, Creativity and Courage, Teamwork, and ExcellenceWorking Conditions:Fast-paced manufacturing environment.Requires standing, walking, and lifting for extended periods.May involve exposure to noise and varying temperatures.Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs.Attendance Requirements:Attendance on a regular, consistent basis is mandatory.Accommodations:Essential functions of this position may include but are not limited to lifting, reaching, bending, stooping, twisting, kneeling, crouching, carrying objects, ascending/descending stairs and commuting to work location. If you are an individual with a disability and need areasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions under the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) or other state or federal law, you may request the accommodations.Salary Range: $85K - $105K