Lights- Manufacturing Engineer - Automation & Quality

Company Description Specialized Turning is a precision machining company focused on delivering high-quality parts with reliable, on-time performance. The team routinely accommodates urgent customer needs, positioning the company as a virtual extension of its clients’ factories. Specialized Turning strives to deliver unmatched quality and service at competitive prices. The Company is expanding adding new, automated multi axis machining centers for high volume production to compliment its low volume, specialty offering.

Serving the aerospace, defense, robotics and firearms sectors we routinely machine stainless steels, high temperature alloys and titanium. Specialized Turning is registered to AS9100, ITAR and holds an FFL.

Drive Quality. Automate Production. Build the Future.

We are seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Engineer to join our growing precision machining operation. This role is ideal for an engineer who is passionate about quality, process improvement, automation, and lights-out manufacturing. You will work closely with programming, machining, quality, and leadership to develop robust manufacturing processes that maximize productivity while delivering world-class quality.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize machining processes for CNC mills and lathes.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, cycle time, and cost reduction.
• Design and implement fixtures, tooling, and work holding solutions.
• Support and expand lights-out manufacturing through process validation, automation, and error-proofing.
• Analyze process capability and drive root-cause corrective actions using Lean and Six Sigma principles.
• Partner with Quality to improve inspection methods, SPC, and first-pass yield.
• Standardize manufacturing documentation, setup sheets, and work instructions.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies, tooling, and automation equipment.
• Support new product introduction from prototype through production.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent experience, Associates degree acceptable).
• 5+ years of manufacturing engineering experience in a precision CNC machine shop.
• Strong understanding of GD&T, blueprint reading, machining processes, and quality systems.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement.
• Familiarity with CNC programming, cutting tools, and process optimization.
• Knowledge of CMM inspection, SPC, and statistical process control is preferred.
• Experience implementing automation, robotics, or unattended machining is a plus.

What We're Looking For

• A problem solver who thrives on improving processes.
• A quality-first mindset with attention to detail.
• Someone who enjoys building reliable, repeatable manufacturing systems.
• A collaborative engineer who works well with machinists, programmers, and management.
• A passion for advancing lights-out manufacturing and manufacturing technology.

If you're excited about building highly capable manufacturing processes where quality is non-negotiable and automation is the future, we'd like to hear from you.