R&D Manufacturing Engineer

About the Role

This position involves interfacing with the global Innovation Team to develop equipment and processes that support magnet wire products. You will apply engineering principles to create state-of-the-art magnet wire products, focusing on quality, efficiency, and cost improvements. The role includes hands-on technical leadership of the R&D process, project planning, and direction for R&D production staff.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and lead training programs for new R&D process staff.
• Interpret internal specifications (MWSS) and lead the design of process setups, tooling selection, and key parameters for producing critical customer samples.
• Develop simulation models for tooling optimization.
• Collect, synthesize, and analyze data from the R&D production process, emphasizing practical digital automation.
• Assist with project management, planning, and support; communicate project milestones and critical paths regularly.
• Collaborate with team members and other departments to ensure functional and timely results.
• Provide technical support for new equipment evaluation, including assembly, installation, startup, training, and product launch phases.
• Operate and evaluate prototype equipment, document performance, and recommend modifications.
• Maintain records and files of versions and revisions.
• Create and maintain operating instructions for all R&D production processes.
• Promote safety and maintain a clean, well-organized workspace following 5S principles.
• Work closely with equipment, process, and material teams to ensure functional design and operation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or equivalent.
• 3+ years of previous engineering experience.
• Confident and experienced in using SolidWorks or comparable 3D modeling software.
• Experience with 3D printing or a strong willingness to learn.
• Ability to mechanically assemble prototypes.
• Demonstrated analytical skills: methodically investigate problems, organize logical experimental trials, document data, and present results.
• Hands-on experience with equipment operation and optimization.
• Practical experience creating and modifying tooling for sample production, relying on engineering comprehension and practical mathematics.
• Ability to document and create standard work procedures, instructions, BOMs, and other documentation.
• Strong PC skills.
• Willingness and ability to travel 10 to 20%, mostly day trips to other Essex sites, with occasional overnights.

Preferred Qualifications

• Highly developed written and oral communication skills.
• Experience with FEA/CFD.
• Experience with solution polymer coating processes.
• Experience implementing automated statistical process control (SPC) tools for reporting and analysis (e.g., Ignition, JMP, Minitab).