Ceramic Process Engineer

POSITION SUMMARY
The Ceramic Process Engineer is a self-motivated and collaborative professional responsible for developing and optimizing manufacturing processes that convert ceramic materials into finished components, either for customer applications or internal assemblies. This role provides direct engineering support to ceramic processing within the Fabrication/Machining department through structured problem-solving, process development, control, and failure analysis.
The engineer will apply technical expertise to enhance manufacturing capabilities, improve product quality, and drive process efficiency to support both sustaining operations and growth initiatives. Additionally, this position plays a key role in introducing new products into production and integrating them effectively within the manufacturing and supply chain environments.
POSITION GUIDELINES

• Build and maintain positive interpersonal relationships that support teamwork and collaboration.
• Demonstrate professionalism and a courteous demeanor in all interactions with customers, visitors, and employees.
• Apply a thorough, methodical approach when developing or refining manufacturing processes.
• Stay current with advancements and emerging developments in piezoelectric technology.

JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and develop manufacturing processes for ceramic fabrication, including machining operations such as milling, turning, sawing, and grinding.
• Analyze and support existing ceramic manufacturing systems to ensure safe methods, optimal production capabilities, cost efficiency, and effective process control.
• Drive improvements in manufacturing efficiency, cost, quality, and safety through analysis of current methods, adoption of new technologies, and execution of cost reduction initiatives.
• Estimate production times, staffing requirements, and associated costs for process planning and scheduling.
• Develop, evaluate, and document new manufacturing processes or engineering changes to existing ones; implement process control techniques and track key performance metrics.
• Collaborate with operators, vendors, and tool designers to develop and implement process tooling and procedures that meet quality, cost, and delivery objectives.
• Utilize production and process data to establish labor standards, calculate costs for engineering changes, and support new product introductions.
• Lead and participate in continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., SPC, 5S, Kaizen, Lean, Six Sigma) to enhance overall manufacturing performance.
• Partner with Quality and Operations teams to perform root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions for process or quality issues.
• Research and recommend new materials, tooling, and process innovations to improve production capability and reduce costs.
• Provide technical support for the installation and qualification of new systems and capital equipment to meet cost, schedule, and performance goals.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience/Background
• Minimum of 5 years of Ceramic Manufacturing Engineering experience.
• Background in high mix / low volume ceramic manufacturing environments.
• Proficiency with CNC machining, programming, and maintaining related fixtures, tooling, and documentation.
• Experience with Mastercam and/or Autodesk Inventor software preferred.
• Familiarity with quality standards (ISO 9001, ISO 13485), statistical analysis, root cause analysis, APQP, and CAPA.
• Knowledge of Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) for new product introductions, including Process Flow Diagrams (PFD), PFMEA, Process Control Plans (PCP), Measurement System Analysis (MSA), capability studies, and validation (IQ/OQ/PQ) per a Validation Master Plan (VMP).
• Position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Incumbent must be a U.S. person or protected individual within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines U.S. persons and protected individuals as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. 'Green Card Holder'), U.S. Temporary Resident, Political Asylee, or Refugee.

Skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate data, identify solutions, and make informed engineering decisions.
• Advanced knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience improving ceramic manufacturing processes through automation and lean techniques.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Outlook, and web browsers).
• Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems.
• Proficient with 2D/3D CAD software; SolidWorks preferred.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
• Highly motivated self-starter with strong attention to detail, organization, and multitasking abilities.
• Effective interpersonal skills and professionalism in team environment

Education
• Bachelor of Science degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience that supports successful job performance.

ENVIRONMENTAL & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Manufacturing / Non-Sedentary Requirements

Incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of the job. Work may be performed in an office or warehouse environment. Typically requires the ability to spend 66%+ hours each workday doing the following activities: stand for extended periods of time, walk, bend, stoop, or climb. May have possible exposure to dust and may require the ability to lift and/or push up to 50 pounds 33% - 66% of the time.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING JOB DUTIES AND JOB DESCRIPTIONS

Job duties include additional responsibilities as assigned by one's supervisor or another manager related to the position/department. This job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. Piezo Technologies reserves the right at any time with or without notice to alter or change job responsibilities, reassign, or transfer job position or assign additional job responsibilities, subject to applicable law. Piezo Technologies shall provide reasonable accommodations of known disabilities to enable a qualified applicant or employee to apply for employment, perform the essential functions of the job, or enjoy the benefits and privileges of employment as required by the law.

May work weekends or extended hours as required to support production needs.

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