Manufacturing Engineer

We're seeking a hands-on Maintenance Technician with deep expertise in warp knitting machines to drive reliability, uptime, and process optimization in our high-volume textile/technical fabrics production environment. You'll serve as the go-to subject matter expert for warp knitting equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement — ensuring machines run at peak performance while reducing downtime, scrap, and costs.

• Perform hands-on preventive and corrective maintenance on warp knitting machines (e.g., Karl Mayer, Liba, or equivalent high-speed models), including mechanical, pneumatic, electronic, and control system repairs
• Diagnose and troubleshoot complex machine issues (guide bar failures, needle damage, patterning faults, yarn feed problems, drive systems, oiling/lubrication systems, electronic controls) to minimize unplanned downtime
• Lead machine setup, changeovers, and pattern adjustments for new styles/products while optimizing settings for quality and throughput
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance schedules, standard work instructions, and spare parts strategies specific to warp knitting equipment
• Analyze production data, downtime logs, and quality metrics to identify root causes of defects or inefficiencies; drive corrective actions and kaizen improvements
• Collaborate with production, quality, and maintenance teams to reduce scrap, improve first-pass yield, and increase overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)
• Support new equipment installation, commissioning, and validation for warp knitting lines (including integration of automation or monitoring systems)
• Train operators and technicians on proper machine operation, basic maintenance, and troubleshooting techniques
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, lockout/tagout procedures, and regulatory requirements in a manufacturing setting
• Participate in continuous improvement projects (Lean, Six Sigma tools) focused on cost reduction, capacity increase, and process stability

• 3+ years of direct, hands-on experience maintaining and troubleshooting warp knitting machines (Karl Mayer, Tricot, Raschel, Liba, or similar high-performance warp knit equipment required)
• Strong mechanical aptitude with proven ability to disassemble/reassemble complex machinery, replace components (needles, sinkers, guide bars, cams, etc.), and perform precision alignments
• Familiarity with warp knitting processes, yarn behaviors, pattern mechanisms, and common failure modes
• Proficiency reading mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and pneumatic/hydraulic diagrams

• Competitive salary + annual performance bonus
• 401(k) with company match
• Modern, safety-focused facility with a collaborative team culture
• Opportunity to make a direct impact on production reliability and company growth