Manufacturing Engineer at Lin Engineering Inc – MORGAN HILL, California

The Manufacturing Engineer provides hands-on engineering support to manufacturing operations, serving as a critical bridge between technician-level production support and full engineering project ownership. This role focuses on troubleshooting production issues, conducting failure analysis, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and developing clear, actionable work instructions and procedures.

The ideal candidate brings a strong foundation in manufacturing processes—typically gained through prior experience as a Manufacturing Technician—and is motivated to grow into broader engineering responsibilities within a precision motor manufacturing environment.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

The following duties are representative of the position. Additional duties may be assigned as business needs require.

• Provide day-to-day technical support to production operations, including troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and defect reduction.
• Conduct failure analysis on internal material rejections (IMMRs) and returned units (RMA); recommend and implement corrective actions.
• Develop, maintain, and continuously improve work instructions and standard operating procedures for production staff.
• Design and fabricate custom fixtures, jigs, and tooling to improve manufacturing efficiency, safety, and product quality.
• Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing cycle time, improving labor efficiency, and lowering manufacturing costs.
• Read, interpret, and apply engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing).
• Perform CNC programming activities, including G-code development, tool offset setup, troubleshooting, and operator training, as required.
• Support and execute the active preventive maintenance (PM) program. Monthly, bi monthly, quarterly, semi annual, annual, and multi year intervals
• Collect and analyze production data to identify trends, reduce defects, and support Six Sigma quality objectives.
• Participate in Continuous Improvement Team activities and contribute to the resolution of open production issues.
• Ensure production areas have the appropriate tools, materials, and resources to meet quality and on-time delivery requirements.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Associate’s degree (A.A./A.S.) in a technical discipline required; bachelor’s degree (B.S.) in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Technology, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) years of hands-on manufacturing experience; Manufacturing Technician experience in a precision or step motor manufacturing environment strongly preferred.
• Experience using precision measuring tools such as micrometers, calipers, and height gauges.
• Familiarity with Lean manufacturing principles and basic quality tools (SPC, 5-Why, fishbone diagrams, root-cause analysis).
• Hands-on experience with motors is strongly preferred.

Technical & Computer Skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel).
• Ability to learn and utilize ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing execution software.

Communication & Reasoning Skills

• Ability to read, interpret, and write technical documents, engineering drawings, work instructions, and investigation reports.
• Strong verbal communication skills; comfortable working with production staff and cross-functional teams.
• Ability to apply algebra, basic statistics, and geometric tolerancing in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate data into practical, actionable solutions.

General Performance Standards

• Demonstrates job knowledge, accuracy, and dependability in all assigned tasks.
• Produces quality work within established timelines and budgets.
• Learn new processes, tools, and responsibilities efficiently.
• Works collaboratively and supports team objectives; places Lin Engineering’s goals first.
• Communicates clearly and professionally with all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrates initiative, accountability, and sound judgment in decision-making.
• Maintains regular and punctual attendance.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

This position is performed primarily indoors in a standard manufacturing facility environment.

Environment & Physical Demands

• Noise level is typically minimal to moderate; temperature ranges from 65–80°F.
• Approximately 40% of the workday involves computer use.
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. occasionally and up to 15 lbs frequently.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, grasping, and use of hand and power tools.
• Continuous use of hands for fine motor tasks, close and distance vision, hearing, and speech.
• Seldom use of mill, lathe, or automobile; occasional use of copier and heavy power tools.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

The expected hourly pay range for this position is $31.00 to $43.00 per hour. Actual compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s experience, education, skills, and internal equity considerations.

In addition to base compensation, Lin Engineering offers a comprehensive benefits package. Details will be provided during the interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Lin Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age (40 and over), disability (physical or mental), medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law, including the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA).

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to disabled veterans in accordance with applicable law. If you require accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources.

At-Will Employment

Employment with Lin Engineering is at will. This means that either the employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or advance notice. Nothing in this job description constitutes an employment contract or alters the at-will nature of your employment.

This job description is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with this position and may be modified from time to time to meet organizational needs.

Key Performance Deliverables

• On-time delivery (OTD) performance support
• Measurable process improvements resulting in labor efficiency
• Reduction of internal material rejections (IMMRs)
• Reduction of rework and “hospital” product volume
• Accurate, current, and effective work instructions and standard operating procedures