Manufacturing Engineer

Company Overview

Solecta is an exciting early-stage, high-tech company focused on solving real customer issues and commercializing polymeric industrial filtration products. Solecta has manufacturing facilities in Oceanside, CA. The company is backed by True North Venture Partners, an investing firm that specializes in commercializing and scaling disruptive innovations.

Position Summary

The Manufacturing Engineer supports manufacturing operations by assisting with process improvements, troubleshooting production issues, and maintaining stable and efficient manufacturing systems. This entry-level role provides hands-on engineering support on the production floor while developing technical skills in process optimization, data analysis, and equipment systems. The position also supports product trials, testing, and small-scale projects, working closely with Process Engineers, Operations, and R&D to execute improvements and support daily manufacturing needs.
 
Essential Duties and Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or ability required. Other duties as assigned.

Duties:

• Support analysis and improvement of manufacturing processes to enhance yield, throughput and product quality 
• Assist in troubleshooting production issues on the manufacturing floor and support implementation of corrective actions 
• Collect, organize and analyze process and production data to identify trends and improvement opportunities 
• Support process improvement initiatives using structured problem-solving methods (5 Whys, Fishbone, basic Lean/Six Sigma tools) 
• Assist with process mapping, time studies and documentation of manufacturing processes 
• Work cross-functionally with Operations, Quality, and Maintenance to support implementation of process changes
• Take ownership of small, well-defined engineering projects with guidance from senior engineers 
• Compile and analyze data using Excel, Minitab or similar tools; provide summaries and recommendations 
• Support development and execution of Design of Experiments (DOE) under guidance
• Support installation, commissioning and startup of manufacturing equipment 
• Assist in developing and updating standard work instructions (SWIs) and technical documentation 
• Follow all safety, quality and operational standards
• Additional duties as assigned

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 
• Basic understanding of engineering principles and manufacturing processes 
• Ability to analyze data and identify trends 
• Strong communication skills with ability to explain technical concepts clearly 
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and standard engineering tools 
• Basic technical writing and documentation skills 
• Exposure to mechanical systems, equipment or laboratory environments a plus

Abilities

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, or related field)
• 1+ years experience working in a manufacturing facility

Preferred Qualifications

• Internship or co-op experience in manufacturing, R&D, or engineering environment 
• Exposure to continuous improvement concepts (Lean, Six Sigma) 
• Familiarity with data analysis tools (Excel; JMP, Minitab, or Python a plus) 
• Exposure to CAD tools (AutoCAD, SolidWorks) a plus 
• Experience working with mechanical systems, equipment, or laboratory testing 
• Interest in manufacturing, process engineering, and equipment systems
• Bilingual preferred (English/Spanish)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time on the manufacturing floor
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds occasionally
• Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, and reaching to observe processes and troubleshoot equipment
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment, including exposure to noise, moving machinery, and varying temperatures
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toe shoes
• Ability to climb ladders or stairs and access different areas of the production facility as needed
• Visual acuity to read technical documents, monitor equipment, and inspect product quality
• Ability to use a computer and standard office equipment for extended periods of time
• Hearing and speaking to exchange information
• Dexterity of hands and fingers to demonstrate activities

Work Environment

The work environment described here is representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. 

• Fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• This role routinely involves standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, etc.
• The role is exposed to a variety of conditions that may be found while walking the production floor.
• Minimal travel (0-10%) will be required for this position.
• 50% of the time spent on the production floor and 50% in an office environment.
• Work extended hours as needed. 

Solecta, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.