Engineering Jobs in Kensington, CT

Job Title: Manufacturing Engineer

Location: Fully Onsite in Farmington CT

Type: Direct Hire

Salary: $120-140K DOE Plus Bonus and Excellent Benefits (Flexible on base Salary, can go higher depending on experience)

Summary:

The Manufacturing Engineer – CNC Programming is responsible for developing, optimizing, and maintaining CNC programs and machining processes for complex, production aerospace components. This role owns the end-to-end programming and process development lifecycle, from CAM programming and tool selection through prove-out and production release, and post release support with a strong emphasis on Nickel Alloy, Titanium, Steel, Stainless Steel, and other difficult-to-machine materials.

The ideal candidate is a practical problem-solver who understands how programs behave in the real world and takes pride in delivering programs that run with few to no issues once released.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain CNC programs using Mastercam software for Okuma OSP, Haas, Fanuc and Makino machines
• Coordinate with engineering group to identify required features, tolerances, and run sequences.
• Own full program creation from concept through production release and ongoing optimization
• Define machining strategies, tooling approaches, and setup concepts for complex turning operations
• Support first article builds, prove-outs, and production ramp-ups
• Optimize programs and processes to reduce setup time, improve repeatability, and ensure consistent quality
• Collaborate with operators, quality, and engineering to ensure stable, production-ready processes
• Troubleshoot and improve existing programs as needed, with a focus on root cause and long-term solutions
• Ensure programs and documentation meet aerospace quality and regulatory requirements
• Publishes operator work instructions, set up sheets, parameter sheets as necessary

What Success Looks Like

• Programs are released cleanly and run with minimal edits or intervention
• Setups are clear, efficient, and repeatable across shifts
• Operators have confidence in the programs and supporting documentation
• Production issues related to programming are rare and resolved quickly when they occur

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years of CNC programming experience in a production environment
• Proven history of lathe turning programming (VTL and Slant Bed)
• BS in aerospace engineering, manufacturing engineering or similar
• Experience machining Nickel alloys, Titanium and other challenging aerospace metals
• Solid understanding of CNC machining principles, tooling, and cutting strategies
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and GD&T
• Proven ability to develop robust, repeatable machining processes

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Mastercam
• Experience with Okuma, Makino, and Haas controls
• Background in aerospace manufacturing
• Ability to improve legacy or unstable existing programs and processes
• Machining background to support program prove-out (program, set-up, qualify tooling, run development pieces/qualification lot etc)

About Us

Founded in 2010, Top Prospect Group specializes in connecting high-quality candidates with top-tier clients. In 2023, we joined HW Staffing Solutions, expanding our national footprint across manufacturing, engineering, logistics, and technology.

Interested Candidates – Apply Today

Please submit:

• A clean copy of your resume
• Salary expectations
• Availability

ACCOUNTABILITY:

The position of Cell Leader is a key catalyst on a manufacturing Cell Team, who works in conjunction with Process Engineering, Quality Engineering, and hourly Cell associates to manufacture or assemble a component or major assembly. As such, this individual must supervise a group or groups engaged in various activities in the Operations organization, and act with urgency to direct the resolution of technical and logistics problems and the introduction of measures to improve operations and customer relations.

TYPICAL DUTIES:

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• Set work priorities aligned to satisfy company, customer demand and on-time delivery metrics. Collaborate with planner and peer Cell Leaders to schedule work through the various manufacturing work centers and manage work center to assure adequate flow of production. Manage line balance ensuring the pacing process is adequately staffed to maintain desired output levels. Hold direct reports accountable to meet Operating, OTD, Quality, and Safety metrics. Ensure direct reports are fully engaged performing value added work.
  
• Develop and implement action plans to meet department goals in the areas of labor efficiency, labor utilization, housekeeping, on-time delivery and productivity improvements. Perform regular daily audits of key processes to ensure optimum process performance and use of latest operation sheets,
  
• Maintain department/cell metrics. Ensure all direct reports understand their cell metrics and how they impact/improve each metric. Monitor Utilization rate in cell is at acceptable level (direct vs. indirect), Labor Efficiency (by person, by job), Quality Performance (Maintain Quality log), enforce work rules (breaks, cell phones, newspapers, etc.), ensure TPM/PM is being completed.
  
• Coach direct reports in maintaining accurate reporting of employee time, vouchering and work performance within the area. Develop and maintain Skills Matrix for accurate identification of workforce capabilities and cross train to support business need.
  
• Encourage employee involvement in and ownership of continuous improvement activities focused on LEAN and waste reduction. Implement and maintain 6S in Cell.
  
• Develop, plan and implement continuous quality improvement through teams within the area of responsibility to attain World Class Quality. Ensure PDR's are written quickly & thoroughly. Initiate PRB review on suspect parts in a timely manner. Support weekly PRB meetings to determine RCCA and develop rework scenarios where possible. Respond to production problems by personally investigating and resolving such problems with hourly and salaried personnel to assure a continuing flow of product. Utilize formal problem solving methodologies to discover and eliminate root cause.
  
• Actively participate, recommend, and initiate improvement in our EH&S practices and procedures.
  
• Reward and recognize associates on a regular basis and support programs that encourage employee involvement and recognition.
  

QUALIFICATIONS:

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• 5-10 years' experience working in an aerospace manufacturing environment
  
• Prior experience in a unionized facility is preferred
  
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
  
• Excellent process and problem solving skills
  
• Effective communication skills, including verbal (logical and organized), written, listening and presentation
  
• Experience with ERP systems
  
• Team player with strong people skills
  
• Ability to communicate with and influence employees and management at all levels
  
• Decisive and capable of dealing with conflict and resolving issues promptly
  
• Take charge individual with clear sense of urgency
  
• Proven track record of meeting commitments with the highest standards of ethics and integrity
  
• Demonstrated experience in continuous improvement initiatives, root cause corrective action methodology, visual factory management, statistical process control techniques, quality assurance processes, coaching and performance management, safety practices, operations metrics/dashboard measurement.
  

EDUCATION:

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• Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Business Management or equivalent work experience will be considered.
  

This position is currently accepting applications.

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Accountability:

The Cost Accountant is responsible for the compilation of cost information for products and services for a specific job or project. Key responsibilities will encompass the investigation of costs that differ from expectations, assisting in resolving those differences and preparing reports. The primary charge of this position will be to bring a higher level of operational effectiveness by streamlining and consolidating processes and systems. They will do this by investigating and analyzing current situations and recommending cost-effective solutions or improvements. In addition, they will analyze and prepare complex financial and business information, in support of various functional groups. Analyze a variety of financial documents, perform technical studies, and forecast trends impacting financial activities. Propose and introduce improvements to enhance customer satisfaction and the group's effectiveness. The location Controller will look to the Cost Accountant to provide accurate information upon which critical decisions will be based. In this role you will interface with all departments at various levels. More specific responsibilities include but will not be limited to the following:

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• Plan and conduct investigations, audits and analyses of a variety of financial information used in the preparation of budgets, forecasts, business plans, prices, costs of products, services and operations, and prepare reports and recommendations.
  
• Review data and consult with governmental, customer and operating personnel to obtain financial information. Select or devise techniques to ensure optimal analysis of financial elements.
  
• Conduct or coordinate special studies and investigations, and recommend measures to achieve resolution of complex and controversial financial problems. Continually review operations to reduce impact of potential problems and to take advantage of opportunities to achieve cost savings and improve customer satisfaction.
  
• Design, establish, modify, verify and implement cost-effective and responsive programs to meet financial requirements, including a system of checks and balances to safeguard the Company's assets, particularly inventory.
  

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• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field. Alternatively, a special combination of education and experience and/or demonstrated accomplishments.
  
• Must have 5-8+ years of cost accounting management experience in a manufacturing environment. Aerospace industry preferred.
  
• Requires a thorough knowledge of cost accounting policies and procedures.
  
• The ability to effectively interpret cost accounting operating statistics
  
• Conduct independent investigations and resolve complex cost accounting problems.
  
• High degree of business acumen
  
• Strong communication skills in order to interface effectively with other groups, influence decisions and achieve agreement on complex cost accounting matters
  

This position is currently accepting applications.

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FUNCTION:

Set up, operate, troubleshoot and perform work on a variety of machinery. Be flexible, willing and capable of being trained on additional machines. Perform work at a consistently high level of quality. Be reliable in consistency of work and willingness to work outside of core area of expertise.

TYPICAL DUTIES:

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  Must be capable & willing to set up operations that have previously been proven out independently without oversight of a leadman or CNC programmer.

  
  
  

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  Must be capable of running a minimum of two of the following machine types: 3 and 4 axis Horizontal and Vertical Machining Centers, 5 axis machining centers, Vertical Turret Lathes, Cylindrical Grinders, Mill/Turn machines, CNC boring machines, Horizontal lathes, manual machines.

  
  
  
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  Must be willing to perform work on machines throughout the shop, not only the machines that are within the person's core area of expertise. For example: must be willing to perform work on a Mitsubishi 4 axis machining center even when the person normally runs a Mazak 730 Variaxis.

  
  
  
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  Must be capable & willing to identify opportunities for improvement in tooling, cutting methods, mistake proofing & work instruction documentation.

  
  
  
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  Must possess a skill level that eliminates errors that cause nonconforming material and maintain a consistent level of high quality work. Identify non-conformances at time of occurrence. Recognize opportunities for non-conformances and notify management of need for action.

  
  
  
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  Actively participate in various aspects of Continuous Improvement projects which may include but is not limited to 5S, TPM, kaizen events, and set-up reduction events, which is aligned with the commitment to continuous improvement activities in Article II of the collective bargaining agreement.

  
  
  
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  Must work safely at all times. Participate in safety improvement initiatives by raising any safety concerns and helping to come up with corrective actions.

  
  
  
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  Must be capable & willing to assist or train other employees in this or lower classifications as needed.

  
  
  
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  Refer difficulties to leader or supervisor as appropriate

  
  
  

  May be assigned to carry out tasks, not specifically listed, within the scope and skill level of this job description in support of department or cell objectives and to develop individuals' skills.

  
  
  

This position is currently accepting applications.

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ACCOUNTABILITY:

This position includes acting as a change agent in developing, introducing, and administering new or assigned suppliers, related to purchasing matters. It also consists of implementing measures to improve company/supplier relations, and ensuring compliance with related contracts or agreements.

This position deals with day-to-day handling of time critical customer product, at times requiring independent action, as well as the ability to follow specific guidelines in administration of contracts or agreements.

TYPICAL DUTIES (May include, but are not limited to the following):

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• Establishing contacts and releasing PO's with suppliers, identification and qualification of new sources of suppliers, quoting, supply side monitoring of suppliers: lead-times, capacity, delivery, cost, quality, reverse auction.
  
• Coordinating with MRO/tooling & product suppliers on the supply needs (requires interaction with division managers.
  
• Execution and interaction in material supply chain coordination within the division and with external suppliers.
  
• Identifying and planning integration of MRO materials and supplies into the shop based on knowledge of the kanban replenishment issues.
  
• Managing the shipping and receiving aspects within the division, calling in outside trucking firms, managing day to day shipping requirements.
  
• Provide and request information from suppliers, vendors, transportation specialists and other sources, as applicable.
  
• Review data and information, conduct basic analyses and provide assistance to more experienced staff in more complex matters.
  
• Review terms and conditions of contracts and agreements to determine compliance with regulations and Company policy.
  
• Work closely with other groups involved in various aspects of supply chain management and transportation to ensure meeting schedules, and inform senior staff of potential problems.
  
• Strive for continuous improvement in such matters as cost, quality, and responsiveness to customers.
  
• Inventory management: determining inventory requirements and maintaining adequate stocks and supplies.
  
• Developing and implementing state of the art methods and practices to reduce requirements for storage facilities and space and reduce associated costs.
  

COMPLEXITY OF TASKS:

Under supervision, perform routine duties in support of Purchasing and Logistics. Requires strong working knowledge of computer based programs, and ability to communicate effectively and resolve routine problems. Requires basic understanding of standard supply management and transportation functions and of related policies. Requires interfacing and effective communication with other groups regarding various aspects of the procurement process.

Experience in Aerospace industry preferred.

Associate Degree or 2 to 5 years of related experience, or a combination of education and experience, and/or demonstrated accomplishments

This position is currently accepting applications.

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Client Organization Scope:

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• $150m+ Revenue
  
• 300+ vendors in AP system
  
• 80-85% of invoices are PO-related and require 3-way match
  
• Multi-site responsibility
  

Accountability:

Owns execution of full-cycle Accounts Payable process. Prepares and processes all accounts payable according to terms, resolving any discrepancies between PO/Receiver/Invoice as needed with limited supervision. Corporate Credit Card reconciliation and follow up on delinquent submissions.

Duties/responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

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• Must have experience in a Manufacturing environment
  
• Performs 3-way match of PO, receiver and invoices
  
• Contacts vendors as needed to request statements and resolve any issues or respond to their inquiries; Assists in resolution of complaints between vendor and customer
  
• Communicates with buyers on PO discrepancies
  
• Distributes non-PO invoices for approval
  
• Processes corporate purchasing credit cards
  
• Prepares weekly vendor payments by check and ACH; prepares Positive Pay and ACH files for uploading to bank site
  
• Controls check signatures and distribution to vendors
  
• Responsible for following up on outstanding "uncashed" checks
  
• Maintains W-9 documents for all vendors to accurately produce annual 1099s
  
• Assists with annual financial audits
  
• Assists accounting staff in the month end close process; ensure that all invoices are posted in the appropriate fiscal month and all invoices that have not yet been received are properly accrued for.
  
• Maintain accurate and complete records for all accounts payable transactions
  
• Participates in training and instruction as directed
  
• Reviews Accounts Payable Aging and Goods Received and Not Invoiced reports for accuracy maintaining GRNI under 90 days of receipt.
  

The above listed responsibilities are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities or duties required. Incumbents will be expected to perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

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• Associate's Degree in Accounting or comparable work experience; 3+ years'
  
• Must have experience in a Manufacturing environment
  
• Minimum of 2 years of full-cycle Accounts Payable experience
  
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook software applications, knowledge of Epicor a plus
  
• Working knowledge of chart of accounts for proper general ledger coding.
  
• Demonstrated time management skills with good attention to detail
  
• Ability to interact effectively with people at all levels of the organization
  
• Ability to work independently to identify and resolve exceptions and discrepancies
  

This position is currently accepting applications.

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Position:

The Engineering Project Manager will report directly to the PMO Manager and will be responsible for leading and managing assigned NPI Projects from project initiation through production hand-off.

Key Goals:

The EPM goal when managing projects is to meet or exceed internal and external customer expectations while maintaining the scope, quality and any costs associated with the project. The Engineering Project Manager will oversee and manage the activities of multiple projects involving contracted component/assembly processes, equipment/tooling builds, and plant layout tasks that support all three AVNA facilities.

Responsibilities:

• The EPM will facilitate communication between the customer and the internal project team. The EPM will guide contractual conversations, technical conversations, and production conversations.
• The EPM manages activities for cross-functional team members that include Manufacturing Engineers, Quality Engineers, Automation Engineers, Toolmakers/technicians, Maintenance, product supervisors, estimating/quoting/sales, Buyers/Planners, outside vendors, etc.
• Develops and maintains multi-phase project plans and timelines while adhering to scope, quality and project costs. Any milestone dates, risks, or failures must be clearly communicated to the customer in a timely manner.
• Identifies project risks and addresses accordingly during all stages of the project. The EPM must understand the use of technical and financial information from past projects and the experience of subject matter experts.
• The EPM will collaborate with a multi-functional team to resolve technical challenges. The EPM will assist with troubleshooting, data analysis and in-depth evaluation of the process, equipment or tooling when needed.
• Oversees all project operation rate variants as it relates to gross profit margins. The EPM alters/improves processes with the technical lead during the NPI stage as it relates to cost, efficiency or quality.
• Works with outside suppliers to develop or confirm material, component or assembly processes.
• Works with outside vendors for gages, tooling, equipment or services that are required within the project plan or capital expense.
• Technical writing will be owned by the EPM such as IQ/OQ/PQ protocols and reports. The EPM must ensure other technical documents are correctly completed during the specified project phase per any phase gates.
• Convey meeting minutes with specific actions/timing for all internal and external meetings that are led by the EPM.

Requirements:

• 5+ years of project management experience as an engineer or project manager, preferably in the medical device industry.
• Hands-on technical support in the Berlin, CT facility and New Britain, CT facility is required.
• Formal project management training (PMP certified) is preferred.
• Skilled in a project management software product (Smartsheet preferred)
• Engineering skills or technical skills surrounding manufacturing: Tooling design, metal stamping/milling/turning/grinding, injection molding, laser processing, assembly processes.
• Skilled in a 3D CAD software (Solidworks preferred) and 2D CAD software (AutoCAD or Draftsite preferred).
• Experience with PPAP (production part approval process) is preferred.
• Must be able to interpret technical drawings, product requirements and design specifications.
• Understanding of lean manufacturing/six sigma and trained in a statistical software for MSAs and Capability studies (green belt certification and Minitab preferred, respectively)
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills for different cross-function team members and customer interface.
• Ability to self-educate and learn new processes
• ISO13845 experience is recommended

In an assigned cell, perform a variety of inspection processes, using various tools and equipment, following standardized methods and established techniques, to verify production process integrity up through and which may include preparation and presentation of parts to customer for Final Inspection or sale. Assist in 1st Article presentations or Production Lot Test initiatives. Accept or reject material based on findings.

TYPICAL DUTIES:

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• Work from applicable written inspection procedures, drawings, and other pertinent instructions to plan and perform dimensional and visual inspection on parts, tools, gages, and other equipment, accepting material or referring for rework or quality review based on findings.
  
• Use a variety of fixed and variable measuring instruments including computerized machines where program instructions are well defined to check dimensions and recording results. Perform necessary mathematical computations to determine extent of non-conformance and complete appropriate paperwork.
  
• Follow established procedures to perform in-line checks and verification of dimensions and make sure that operation sheets are being followed.
  
• Recognize need and arrange for repair or replacement of equipment used in performing work as necessary.
  
• Support initiatives as directed to reduce MRB and re-work requirements, and assist in the manufacture of quality parts.
  
• Assist on various internal program audits.
  
• May assist others at their direction in the investigation of unusual non-conformances, new or changed inspection sequences, and other specialized assignments within the scope and skill level of this job function.
  
• Support Lean Manufacturing/Continuous Improvement initiatives and function as requested.
  
• Recommend, and participate in environmental health and safety practices.
  
• Refer difficulties to higher-level Inspectors, Lead Person, and /or Supervisor.
  
• Perform routine servicing throughout assigned area following specified procedures, and written instructions, such as operators' checklist, for upkeep and to assure equipment operates properly.
  
• May be assigned to carry out tasks, not specifically listed, within the scope and skill level of this job description in support of department or cell objectives and to develop individual skills.
  
• May be required to train for, obtain, and maintain licenses, operator permits, and certifications within assigned area or cell.
  

This position is currently accepting applications.

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FUNCTION:

In an assigned area or cell, work with limited supervision to perform the assembly of Production aircraft parts as well as the teardown, and assembly of Overhaul & Repair designated aircraft parts.

TYPICAL DUTIES:

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• Performs fitting and assembly operations on various production aircraft parts.
  

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• Performs teardown and assembly of overhaul & repair aircraft parts.
  

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• Cleans and applies special adhesives to materials resulting in a permanent bonding of the materials. Sets up and controls furnace temperature in accordance with established specifications.
  

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• Must be capable of reading and interpreting blueprints, operation sheets, technical specifications and overhaul manuals.
  

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• Maintains necessary records and files.
  

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• Works with limited supervision.
  

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• Assists operators in a lower classification on assembly techniques as needed.
  

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• Performs temporary part marking, In process transfer marking and final part parking operations using Vibro Engraving, Electro-chemical Etch, Ink Stamp, Dot-Peening, and Paint marking with suitable legibility to meet drawing or customer specification requirements
  

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• Works under supervision with salary and hourly support groups to address the most complex problems.
  

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• Must possess a skill level that eliminates errors that cause nonconforming material and maintain a consistent level of high quality work. Identify non-conformances at time of occurrence. Recognize opportunities for non-conformances and notify management of need for action.
  

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• Actively participate in various aspects of Lean production and Continuous Improvement projects that drive efficiency improvements.
  

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• Must work safely at all times. Participate in safety improvement initiatives by raising any safety concerns and helping to come up with corrective actions.
  

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• May be assigned to carry out tasks, not specifically listed, within the scope and skill level of this job description in support of department or cell objectives and to develop individuals' skills.
  

This position is currently accepting applications.

Apply Now