Manufacturing Engineer - GRE Thermoset Molding
1 month ago
Oxnard
Job Description Pay: $85,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year Job description: BIRNS, Inc. is an AS9100 certified global leader in the design and manufacturing of high-performance underwater connectors, subsea cable assemblies, subsea lighting, dive lights, and nuclear facility lighting. BIRNS is seeking an energetic, experienced “hands-on” Manufacturing Engineer- GRE Thermoset Molding. SUMMARY The Manufacturing Engineer – GRE Molding is responsible for planning, designing, implementing, and optimizing Glass Reinforced Epoxy (GRE) thermoset molding, curing, and composite-material processes. The role requires a deep understanding of GRE thermoset molding behavior, temperature-controlled curing processes (epoxy, PUR, elastomers, thermosets), and the ability to analyze and optimize molding parameters, cycle times, tooling performance, and cure profiles. This position ensures production is controlled, efficient, and cost-effective while meeting strict quality, safety, and customer requirements. The engineer supports day-to-day GRE operations; leads process improvement initiatives using Lean, 5S, SPC, and Six Sigma methodologies; drives scrap reduction and process standardization; and ensures alignment with company goals for safety, quality, delivery, and continuous improvement. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The following is a framework of the essential duties and responsibilities for this role. Duties and responsibilities may change according to business need and other duties may be assigned. Process Design & Optimization • Engineer and optimize GRE thermoset molding and curing processes to ensure repeatability, efficiency, and zero-defect outcomes., • Apply strong analytical capability to evaluate molding parameters, cure profiles, cycle times, and tooling performance., • Design, source, validate, and continuously improve molds, tooling, and fixturing, including composite and encapsulation tooling where applicable., • Integrate safety, environmental, quality, and cost-reduction principles into all manufacturing processes., • Conduct process capability studies and implement improvements using Lean, 5S, SPC, PFMEA, and Six Sigma tools., • Analyze mechanical and electrical performance of molded components; conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions., • Troubleshoot molding, curing, and composite interface issues, including bonding and encapsulation challenges., • Resolve production bottlenecks, maintain schedule adherence, and ensure high-quality molded output., • Monitor key process parameters and production data to drive informed decision-making., • Evaluate the condition, capability, and performance of existing GRE molding, curing, and support equipment., • Identify outdated or underperforming equipment and recommend upgrades, refurbishments, or replacement options., • Conduct cost-benefit analyses and ROI assessments for proposed new equipment or modernization projects., • Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and procurement teams to specify equipment requirements and support vendor evaluations., • Ensure compliance with internal quality standards, industry specifications, and safety regulations., • Maintain tight process control and documentation discipline to support zero-defect manufacturing., • Lead continuous improvement projects focused on scrap reduction, cycle-time optimization, and OEE improvement., • Communicate goals, expectations, and technical requirements clearly to production teams., • Provide strong technical instruction and cross-functional alignment with engineering, production, quality, and supply chain., • Author, revise, and maintain detailed work instructions, PFMEAs, control plans, and other process documentation., • Recommend process changes and manage engineering documentation updates., • Promote and maintain a strong safety culture within the GRE molding area., • Coordinate shop-floor activities and support production scheduling., • Support employee growth, training, and development initiatives., • Support KPI reporting and continuous improvement efforts. To perform this role effectively, candidates must have the following knowledge, skills, and abilities: Required Education & Experience • Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a related technical field., • Minimum 10 years of hands-on manufacturing or process engineering experience, preferably with GRE, thermosets, or related composite molding processes., • Extensive hands-on experience with temperature-controlled molding/curing processes (epoxy, PUR, elastomers, thermosets)., • Strong demonstrated ability to analyze and optimize molding parameters, cycle times, cure profiles, and tooling performance., • Experience performing root cause analysis, corrective actions, and troubleshooting complex molding and curing issues., • Preferred: Experience with potting/encapsulation, industrial bonding, composite interface requirements, and related standards (e.g., MIL-M-24041)., • Tooling and mold design experience strongly preferred; CAD or tooling design experience beneficial., • Ability to to interpret technical documents, work instructions, engineering drawings, and data., • Strong written communication skills for procedures and technical reports., • Strong communication skills for technical direction and cross-functional alignment., • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team-driven, fast-paced environment., • Ability to perform calculations involving pressure, temperature, weight, volume, and time., • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex process and quality data., • Proficiency with Windows-based software, spreadsheets, word processing, and ERP/MRB systems., • Regular use of hands for handling tooling, small components, and mold assemblies., • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs regularly and up to 50 lbs occasionally., • Exposure to chemicals, moderate heat, mechanical equipment, air nozzles, and molding plates., • Noise level may be moderate to loud depending on equipment in use. Job Type: Full-time Benefits: • 401(k), • 401(k) matching, • Dental insurance, • Employee assistance program, • Employee discount, • Flexible spending account, • Health insurance, • Life insurance, • Paid time off, • Parental leave, • Professional development assistance, • Referral program, • Retirement plan, • Tuition reimbursement, • Vision insurance Application Question(s): • Will you now or in the future require sponsorship? Education: • Bachelor's (Preferred) Experience: • Manufacturing Engineering: 10 years (Required) Ability to Commute: • Oxnard, CA 93033 (Required) Work Location: In person