Manufacturing System NPD Engineer

About the Role

As a Manufacturing Systems NPD Engineer, you will define, develop, implement, and transition new technology solutions to manufacturing to increase efficiency, reduce cost, and improve quality for new product development initiatives. This role focuses on manufacturing concept and process solutions for production applications, covering advanced technologies including composites fabrication, assembly, automation, inspection, direct part manufacturing, LO technologies, and digital capabilities.

You will incorporate requirements into development plans, evaluate performance of processes and tools, and identify corrective actions to ensure NPD contractual obligations (technical, schedule, and cost) are met while maintaining product quality. This role requires handling multiple projects concurrently in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and utilizing budgeting and project management skills to scope and execute assigned work.

This position reports to the Manager, Pilot, Prototyping and Test Services and is based in Franklin, NH.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain engineering documentation to support pilot production introductions, including mechanical and electro-mechanical designs, tooling concepts, and technical input to quality and production plans.
• Support product and process quality by assisting in the design of test methods, evaluating product capabilities, and helping establish manufacturing standards under guidance.
• Collaborate with product engineering and cross-functional partners to address manufacturability considerations and resolve technical questions during development and pilot phases.
• Utilize the Stage Gate development process to support work breakdown structures, task planning, and prioritization for assigned pilot production activities.
• Analyze manufacturing costs—including materials, labor, overhead, and production processes—and provide data and recommendations to support budget tracking and decision-making.
• Assist in the development, evaluation, and review of work instructions, specifications, and manufacturing methods to support product transitions from development into production.
• Prepare and maintain accurate technical documentation, reports, and presentations to communicate status, findings, and recommendations to project stakeholders.
• Provide manufacturing data and analysis to support capacity planning discussions related to labor, equipment, and pilot production scheduling.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives by applying lean manufacturing principles, 5S, and standard problem-solving methodologies.
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge through training, workshops, technical publications, and participation in professional organizations.
• Promote a collaborative team environment through effective communication, knowledge sharing, and support of team objectives.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a closely related technical field.
• Technical engineering certification or equivalent theoretical knowledge consistent with an accredited BS Engineering curriculum.
• 3+ years of relevant experience in manufacturing engineering, manufacturing systems, or a related technical field.
• Practical knowledge of electro-mechanical, mechanical, and/or controls engineering, with the ability to apply established methods and tools.
• Working knowledge of Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles.
• Experience supporting hardware/software integration within manufacturing systems.
• Exposure to production assembly or fabrication environments, including digital manufacturing tools, systems integration, IIoT, RFID, AR/VR, or related manufacturing technologies.
• Familiarity with applicable industry standards, manufacturing safety requirements, and regulatory guidelines.
• Basic working knowledge of human factors and ergonomic principles as applied to manufacturing environments.
• Working knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, 5S, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Digital manufacturing experience is a plus.

Company Competencies

• Commitment to Watts’ values of integrity, accountability, continuous improvement and innovation, and transparency.
• Punctuality and dependability.
• Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing work priorities and stressful conditions.
• Adherence to all personnel policies, procedures, and standards of process as implemented by Watts.
• Maintain productive and collaborative relationships with other Watts employees.
• Adherence to Watts’ seven cultural beliefs: Growth Mindset, Customer-Focused Innovation, Constant Communication, Clear Goals, Collaborate Globally, Be Inclusive, and Take Action.

Working Conditions

While performing the job duties, you will be working on-site at a manufacturing facility and will perform the majority of your duties in an office environment. You may, at times, be required to be present on the manufacturing floor and will be required to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment. This role is based in Franklin, NH, with scheduled work hours communicated by your manager (Monday – Friday).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to remain seated at a desk or workstation for extended periods.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks like typing on a keyboard or using a mouse for extended periods.
• Ability to physically move around the office, organize or transport files, packages, or other office-related materials.
• Ability to read documents, use a computer, and perform data entry tasks.
• Ability to communicate clearly with management and coworkers, particularly in meetings or phone calls.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment such as computers, printers, phones, and copiers.
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry light objects, such as office supplies, documents, or small equipment.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation based on your skills, qualifications, and experience.
• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits.
• Family building benefits, including paid maternity/paternity leave.
• 10 paid holidays and Paid Time Off.
• Continued professional development opportunities and educational reimbursement.
• Additional perks such as fitness reimbursements and employee discount programs.

Learn more about our benefit offerings here.