Manufacturing Design Engineer – Sheet Metal Fabrication in Newport News, Virginia at Qualdoc, LLC

Manufacturing Design Engineer – Sheet Metal Fabrication

Location: Newport News, VA
Job Type: Full-Time, Contract-to-Hire
Shift: First Shift (7:00 AM – 3:30 PM EST)
Pay Rate: Starting at $30.00/hour, with higher compensation based on experience

Position Overview

We are seeking a Manufacturing Design Engineer to support engineering and production activities within a high-volume sheet metal fabrication environment. This position works closely with engineering leadership, customers, machine operators, and production teams to develop efficient manufacturing solutions and ensure successful project execution.

The ideal candidate will possess strong mechanical engineering fundamentals, a willingness to learn advanced fabrication technologies, and the ability to collaborate across multiple departments to improve product manufacturability and production efficiency.

• Develop and maintain engineering designs and manufacturing documentation for sheet metal components and assemblies.
• Learn and support programming of CNC fabrication equipment, including turret punches, laser cutting systems, panel benders, press brakes, and other production machinery.
• Evaluate existing product designs and identify opportunities to improve manufacturability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Partner with customers and internal teams to optimize designs for sheet metal fabrication processes.
• Troubleshoot production challenges and recommend practical engineering solutions.
• Communicate regularly with customers regarding technical requirements, design modifications, and project status.
• Manage engineering drawings, revisions, and product change control processes.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives throughout the manufacturing operation.
• Maintain a professional and customer-focused approach while balancing multiple priorities and deadlines.

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Strong mathematical aptitude, including advanced geometry skills.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks and other mechanical design software.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking abilities.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented manufacturing environment.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to perform under pressure.

• Experience with sheet metal manufacturing and fabrication processes.
• Exposure to CNC programming or CNC-controlled manufacturing equipment.
• Familiarity with design-for-manufacturing (DFM) principles.
• Experience working directly with customers on technical or engineering projects.
• Understanding of engineering document control and revision management processes.