Engineering Manager

Engineering Manager – CNC Manufacturing

Location: Central IL Compensation: $100,000–$135,000 Schedule: Full-Time | On-Site

An established precision manufacturer is seeking an experienced Engineering Manager to lead engineering operations, CNC programming, process improvements, and technical team development.

This is a hands-on leadership opportunity for someone with a strong CNC machining and manufacturing engineering background who can improve cycle times, reduce tooling costs, optimize machining processes, and develop a high-performing engineering team.

Responsibilities

• Lead engineering personnel, projects, training, and performance management.
• Develop and implement manufacturing engineering strategies and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Oversee CNC programming, G-code, new part development, job packets, and initial setups.
• Troubleshoot machining issues during new job run-offs and production.
• Optimize setup times, cycle times, tooling usage, and manufacturing efficiency.
• Conduct time studies, tool testing, and process evaluations.
• Manage cutting tool inventory, tool crib procedures, and tooling costs.
• Maintain accurate engineering documentation, programs, routings, and job packets.
• Manage engineering issues and corrective actions through Plex ERP.
• Collaborate with Operations and department leaders on production improvements and cycle time estimates.
• Provide technical training in machining, blueprint reading, GD&T, equipment operation, and manufacturing processes.
• Support customer communication and resolution of engineering concerns.
• Drive 5S, workplace safety, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform NDT Level II Limited inspections as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering.
• 6+ years of CNC manufacturing experience.
• Strong understanding of CNC machining, programming, tooling, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with G-code programming, blueprint reading, and GD&T.
• Knowledge of setup optimization, cycle time reduction, and tooling cost control.
• Strong project management, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lead, coach, and develop technical employees.
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous engineering management or technical leadership experience.
• Experience with Plex ERP or similar manufacturing systems.
• Knowledge of 5S, Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement.
• Experience with tooling technology, time studies, and process development.
• NDT Level II Limited certification or experience is a plus.

Why Join?

• $100,000–$135,000, based on experience
• Leadership role with direct influence on manufacturing performance
• Opportunity to improve CNC programming, processes, and tooling efficiency
• Hands-on involvement in new product development and machining operations
• Ability to develop engineering talent and drive continuous improvement

Interested?

For confidential consideration, contact:

Alana Seddon | gpacExecutive Search Consultant | Manufacturing & Industrial Operations Phone: 785-783-6703 Email: alana.seddon@gogpac.com

All inquiries and candidate information will be held in the strictest confidence.

Keywords

Engineering Manager • Manufacturing Engineering Manager • CNC Engineering Manager • CNC Manufacturing • CNC Programming • G-Code • Manufacturing Engineer • Process Engineering • Precision Machining • CNC Machining • Tooling Engineering • Cutting Tools • Tool Crib • Cycle Time Optimization • Setup Reduction • GD&T • Blueprint Reading • Plex ERP • Manufacturing Process Improvement • Time Studies • Tool Testing • 5S • Continuous Improvement • NDT Level II • Engineering Leadership