Manufacturing Design Engineer – Sheet Metal & CNC Operations

Manufacturing Design Engineer – Sheet Metal & CNC Operations

Location: Newport News, VA
Employment Type: Full-Time | Contract-to-Hire
Schedule: Day Shift (7:00 AM – 3:30 PM EST)
Compensation: Starting at $30+/hour depending on experience

We are seeking a Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineer to support engineering and production operations within a fast-paced sheet metal fabrication environment. This role will work closely with production personnel, engineering leadership, and manufacturing teams to improve product designs, support fabrication processes, and optimize manufacturing efficiency.

This position is ideal for an engineer with strong CAD experience, manufacturing knowledge, and interest in CNC fabrication technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, revise, and optimize mechanical designs for sheet metal manufacturing applications
• Support CNC programming and production processes involving lasers, turret punches, panel benders, and press brakes
• Review existing product designs and recommend improvements for manufacturability, production efficiency, and cost reduction
• Assist with troubleshooting manufacturing and production-related issues
• Maintain engineering documentation, drawing revisions, and product change records
• Coordinate with internal departments and external stakeholders regarding engineering updates and production requirements
• Participate in process improvement and continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations
• Work closely with operators, supervisors, and engineering personnel to support production goals and quality standards

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills, including geometry and applied calculations
• Proficiency with CAD software; SolidWorks experience preferred
• Ability to analyze technical issues and develop practical engineering solutions
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing-driven environment with shifting production priorities
• Interest in or willingness to learn CNC programming and sheet metal fabrication processes

Preferred Experience

• Exposure to sheet metal manufacturing or fabrication operations
• Familiarity with CNC production environments
• Experience supporting production-focused engineering teams
• Understanding of manufacturing process improvement methodologies

Work Environment

What’s Offered

• Competitive compensation based on experience
• Opportunity for long-term/full-time employment
• Stable first-shift schedule
• Growth-oriented manufacturing environment
• Hands-on exposure to advanced fabrication and CNC processes