Advanced Manufacturing Engineer-Fabrication

Our client, a leading manufacturer of metal processing for a variety of Industries, including Construction and Automotive to name a few, located in the Windsor area is seeking a dynamic Advanced Manufacturing Engineer


Summary
The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and supporting machining and fabrication processes, for aluminum extrusions, to meet the quality, cost, and delivery requirements of Tier 1 automotive and other customers. This role involves introduction of new processes, tooling and equipment, implementing lean manufacturing principles, ensuring compliance with APQP/PPAP requirements, and driving continuous improvement initiatives to maintain competitive production capabilities. Typical processes include Extrusion, CNC machining, cutting, bending, drilling, punching, deburring, etc.

Key Responsibilities
Process Development & Optimization

• Design, validate, and implement machining and fabrication processes for metal forming.
• Specify, design, procure, build and launch new equipment, tooling, fixtures, and gauges to support new products and processes
• Develop standardized process documentation, including process flow diagrams, production specifications, machinery and equipment SOWs and work instructions.
• Establish and maintain process parameters to achieve required quality and optimal process cycle time

New Product Introduction (APQP/PPAP)

• Participate in APQP gate reviews and ensure all manufacturing deliverables are met.
• Lead or support PFMEA development, control plans, MSA and process capability studies
• Lead or support the coordination of production trials, dimensional validation, and final PPAP submissions.
• Responsible for new equipment, tooling, fixtures, gauges, through in house and outsourcing activities, lead and manage these activities from concept through to PPAP, SOP and handoff to operations.
• Lead or support PPAP submissions, including capability reports, process documentation, and sample part approvals

Production Support

• Troubleshoot machining, fabrication, fixturing, gauging, and assembly process issues
• Work closely with quality, maintenance and production departments to improve equipment reliability and uptime
• Support root cause analysis and corrective action implementation

Continuous Improvement & Lean Manufacturing

• Identify and lead waste reduction projects to improve OEE, throughput, and cost efficiency.
• Implement 5S, SMED, and error-proofing techniques
• Use data-driven methods (SPC, Pareto, time studies) to prioritize improvements

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure all processes meet IATF 16949 and customer-specific requirements.
• Support internal and external audits with documentation and process evidence.
• Maintain process safety compliance with plant health and safety policies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent experience). Masters degree preferred
• 7+ years experience in manufacturing with a minimum 3 years of experience in a Manufacturing or Process Engineering role within a Tier 1 or Tier 2 automotive environment, preferably in metal forming and fabrication
• Strong understanding of CNC machining, fabrication and metal forming processing.
• Knowledge of GD&T, SPC, APQP, PFMEA, MSA and PPAP requirements.
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Mastercam).
• Familiarity with continuous improvement, lean manufacturing tools and Six Sigma methodology.
• A self-starter, driven individual with excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.
• Ideal candidate will have extensive metal forming fabrication experience for both automotive and non-automotive customers