Production Engineer; machining focused

JTEKT North America is a global leader in engineering and manufacturing automotive systems, bearing solutions, and high-performance machine tools
. As a proud member of the Toyota Group
, we are committed to innovation, quality, and continuous improvement. Our Piedmont plant has undergone a major expansion
, that brought in over 120 new machines and automation systems
, creating exciting opportunities for growth and advancement.

Responsible for providing support and ownership of the machining process engineering for JTEKT’s Constant Velocity Joint (CVJ) machining lines. Responsible for CNC turning, grinding, and related machining process performance, troubleshooting, tooling, and continuous improvement, supporting the plant's standardization and line owner initiatives under the Lead Engineer for the machining processes.

• Responsible for the machining process performance for CNC turning, grinding, and related operations on the machining lines
• Lead root-cause analysis and troubleshooting for machining-related downtime, scrap, and quality issues
• Design, develop, and test tooling, fixtures, and gauging to support robust, repeatable machining processes
• Build and maintain SOPs for the machining processes, supporting the plant's standardization and line owner initiative
• Perform equipment capability studies (Cpk/Ppk), PFMEA, and support APQP/PPAP for process and product changes
• Support commissioning new or rebuilt machining equipment to meet production and quality requirements
• Administer engineering documentation and process changes as needed
• Analyze process data to drive quality improvement, cost reduction, and cycle-time reduction
• Support capital equipment purchases and spare parts strategy for assigned lines
• Mentor area owners and technicians on machining processes to build floor-level troubleshooting capability
• Support 5S and safety initiatives on the shop floor
• Strong communication skills both verbal and written
• Proficient computer skills (especially Excel, Solid Works, Auto CAD, etc.)
• Safety and ergonomic knowledge related to manufacturing
• Physical ability to access equipment and ability to work overtime and weekends when needed to support equipment issues.
• Other duties as assigned by management

• This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

• CNC programming and troubleshooting experience (turning, grinding, or similar machining processes)
• Structured root-cause / problem-solving methodology (8D, 5-Why, PFMEA) in an IATF 16949 environment
• Ability to read blueprints, GD&T, and interpret part drawings
• Working knowledge of hydraulic, pneumatic, and basic PLC/HMI systems
• Ability to analyze statistical process data (SPC, Cpk/Ppk)
• Physical ability to access equipment and ability to work overtime and weekends when needed to support equipment issues
• The following are preferred:
  • Automotive driveline or CVJ or precision-shaft machining background
  • Lean / TPS / Six Sigma exposure
  • Capital project or new equipment commissioning experience
  • Experience with in a Toyota Group style operation

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or manufacturing engineering, or equivalent hands-on experience
• 3+ years in machining or process engineering within automotive or high-volume manufacturing
• Design of fixtures/tooling for high-volume equipment and automated equipment troubleshooting experience.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential…