Manufacturing Engineer (Solar Panels)

Manufacturing EngineerPosition Overview We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to develop, improve, and optimize production processes for high-quality, cost-effective manufacturing. The role focuses on manufacturing process design, supplier industrialization, and line qualification to ensure products are produced safely, efficiently, and to specification. The ideal candidate will collaborate across engineering, operations, and supply chain to scale production and drive continuous improvement.

Key ResponsibilitiesDesign, develop, and validate manufacturing processes to meet quality, cost, and throughput targets.

Lead supplier industrialization efforts: qualify suppliers, transfer processes, and provide technical support to ensure consistent part quality and manufacturability.

Plan and execute line qualification activities, including process validation, capability studies, equipment qualification, and first-article inspections.

Develop work instructions, process documentation, and standard operating procedures to support repeatable production.

Perform failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), root cause investigations, corrective actions, and implement continuous improvement projects using Lean and Six Sigma methods.

Collaborate with product design, quality, procurement, and production teams to resolve manufacturability issues and support design for manufacturability (DFM) initiatives.

Support introduction of new products and process changes into production, including pilot runs, capacity planning, and production ramp-up activities.

Specify and evaluate tooling, fixtures, automation, and equipment; work with vendors and internal teams on installation, debug, and optimization.

Monitor key manufacturing metrics (yield, cycle time, downtime) and drive actions to achieve targets.

Train manufacturing personnel on new processes, equipment, and best practices to ensure safe and effective operation.

QualificationsBachelors degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field; Masters degree preferred.3+ years of hands-on manufacturing engineering experience in a high-mix or high-volume production environment.

Demonstrated experience with manufacturing process development and optimization.

Experience with supplier industrialization and managing technical transfers to external suppliers.

Line qualification experience including process validation, capability studies (Cp/Cpk), and production ramp-up.

Strong problem-solving skills with experience in FMEA, root cause analysis, and corrective action implementation.

Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma tools, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Experience with CAD (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and familiarity with PLCs, CNC, or automation systems is a plus.

Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

Willingness to work on the production floor and support off-shift or travel as required.

BenefitsVacation/PTOMedicalDentalVision401kBonusRelocationTelecommute