Job Description
Senior Thread Roll Engineer at RBC Bearings Senior Thread Roll Engineer at RBC Bearings in Torrance, California Posted in 8 days ago.
Job Description:
We are seeking a Senior Thread Roll Manufacturing Engineer to serve as the company's primary technical authority for thread-forming processes across our aerospace fastener product lines. This role is ideal for a seasoned engineer with deep hands-on experience in Reed thread-rolling machines, cylindrical dies, flat dies, and fillet-roll operations. You will lead the modernization, optimization, and troubleshooting of all thread-rolling operations, ensuring world-class capability, repeatability, and throughput. As a senior technical resource, you will mentor engineers and operators, drive process innovation, and support New Product Introduction (NPI) with advanced thread-forming expertise. This is a high-impact role that directly influences product quality, mechanical performance, and manufacturing efficiency for critical aerospace and defense hardware. Key Responsibilities 1. Thread-Rolling Process Ownership a. Serve as the subject-matter expert for all thread-forming processes, including: b. Reed two-die cylindrical thread-rolling machines c. Fillet-roll operations for under-head radii d. Flat-die thread rolling e. Specialized rolling for high-strength alloys (MP35N, MP159, A286, Inconel) f. Develop, validate, and optimize rolling parameters, die geometries, and setups to achieve maximum tool life and process capability. 2. Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement a. Lead Six Sigma, SPC, and Lean initiatives specifically targeting thread-roll throughput, scrap reduction, and die-life improvement. b. Implement advanced process controls, including capability studies, load-monitoring systems, and in-process inspection strategies. c. Introduce new technologies, automation concepts, and modern Reed machine upgrades. 3. NPI & Engineering Support a. Partner with NPI engineering to define thread-forming strategies for new fastener designs. b. Review customer drawings for manufacturability, GD&T compliance, and thread-form feasibility. c. Create and maintain detailed MPIs, setup sheets, and tooling specifications for all thread-rolling operations. 4. Shop-Floor Leadership a. Provide high-level troubleshooting support for operators and supervisors. b. Lead MRB investigations related to thread geometry, surface finish, fillet-roll defects, and mechanical property failures. c. Train operators and junior engineers on best practices, die handling, and machine setup. 5. Tooling & Die Engineering a. Design and specify thread-rolling dies, fillet-roll dies, and supporting tooling. b. Collaborate with die vendors to refine die geometry, coatings, and heat-treat specifications. c. Manage die-life tracking, failure analysis, and continuous improvement cycles. Required Qualifications 1. Bachelor's degree in mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering. In lieu of a degree, candidates with 15+ years of aerospace fastener or precision-manufacturing experience will be considered, provided they currently hold, and can demonstrate, an engineering level role by trade. 2. Minimum 7 years of hands-on experience in aerospace fastener thread-rolling, including Reed machines and fillet-roll operations. 3. Strong understanding of:
a. GD&T and aerospace blueprint interpretation b. Thread-form geometry (UNJ, MJ, UNR, custom forms) c. Mechanical properties and cold-working effects d. Precision metrology (optical comparators, thread gages, profilometers) 4. Experience with CNC machining, forging, and heat-treat interactions with thread-forming. 5. Proficiency with SolidWorks or CATIA for modeling and tooling design. 6. Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (Syteline preferred). 7. Demonstrated success leading process improvement initiatives. Preferred Experience 1. Expertise with high-strength alloys such as MP35N, MP159, Wasp Aloy, Armet and Inconel. 2. Prior leadership of a thread-roll department, engineering group or high-precision forming cell. 3. Experience integrating automation or digital monitoring into legacy Reed machines. 4. Strong background in die-failure analysis and die-life extension strategies. Compliance & Physical Requirements 1. Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident) per ITAR regulations. 2. Ability to work in both office and shop-floor environments; occasional lifting of 10-20 lbs.; ability to stand for extended periods. Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance Work Location:
In person
