Small Electronics Manufacturing Company (Mid-Level Position)
Position Summary
The Manufacturing Engineer serves as a self-directed technical contributor in a small, dynamic electronics manufacturing environment where versatility and initiative are essential. This position requires independent problem-solving, proactive process improvement, and the ability to manage multiple projects with minimal supervision. The ideal candidate thrives in ambiguity, seeks learning opportunities without prompting, and takes ownership of manufacturing challenges from identification through resolution. In our small company setting, this engineer will wear multiple hats and directly impact product quality, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency.
Core Responsibilities
Independent Process Ownership (35%)
- Take full ownership of assigned product lines without day-to-day supervision
- Proactively identify process gaps and implement improvements before issues escalate
- Self-audit processes and documentation, updating without being prompted
- Research and propose new manufacturing methods based on industry trends
- Develop contingency plans for critical processes without management direction
- Monitor industry publications and forums for applicable solutions
- Create and maintain process roadmaps for continuous improvement
- Take initiative to cross-train on unfamiliar equipment and processes
SMT Programming & Optimization (20%)
Independently develop and release SMT programs from CAD data to productionOptimize existing programs based on self-initiated yield analysisAnticipate and resolve programming issues before production impactBuild comprehensive component libraries without supervisionIdentify opportunities for standardization across product familiesResearch and implement advanced programming features independentlyDevelop programming templates and standards for team useTrain yourself on new equipment capabilities through manuals and experimentationProactive Problem Solving (20%)
Monitor production metrics daily and investigate anomalies without promptingDevelop systematic approaches to recurring issuesResearch root causes using online resources, vendor contacts, and experimentationImplement permanent corrective actions with minimal oversightAnticipate potential problems during NPI and address preemptivelyBuild relationships with equipment vendors for technical supportCreate troubleshooting guides based on learned experiencesSeek out problems others haven't noticed yetCustomer Program Management (15%)
Independently manage customer technical relationships for assigned accountsAnticipate customer needs and prepare solutions proactivelyTake initiative to improve customer documentation and reportingIdentify upselling opportunities through manufacturing improvementsResolve customer complaints with minimal escalationProactively communicate potential issues before customers discover themResearch customer industries to better understand their requirementsDevelop account-specific quality and process improvementsSelf-Directed Learning & Development (10%)
Identify personal knowledge gaps and seek training without promptingMaster new equipment through self-study and experimentationPursue relevant certifications and online courses independentlyBuild expertise in emerging technologies relevant to company growthLearn from other departments to understand full business contextAttend webinars and virtual conferences on own initiativeDocument and share self-learned knowledge with teamExperiment with new techniques during off-hours or slow periods