BIRNS, Inc. · 16 hours ago
Manufacturing Engineer - GRE Thermoset Molding
Oxnard, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$85K/yr - $100K/yr
10+ years expBIRNS, Inc. is an AS9100 certified global leader in the design and manufacturing of high-performance underwater connectors and subsea equipment. They are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer specializing in GRE thermoset molding to optimize and implement manufacturing processes while ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards.
ElectronicsLightingManufacturing
Hiring Manager
Alisa Marie Capretta, PHR-Ca, SHRM-CP, CPT
Responsibilities
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
Support process standardization, optimization of cure cycles, and control of temperature-regulated molding systems
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
Maintain and enforce adherence to AS9100-compliant work instructions and operating procedures
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Identify outdated or underperforming equipment and recommend upgrades, refurbishments, or replacement options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
Support installation, validation, and integration of new or upgraded equipment into production processes
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
Support MRB activities, timely disposition, and follow-up actions
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
Lead, support, and mentor production teams in daily operations and problem-solving
Author, revise, and maintain detailed work instructions, PFMEAs, control plans, and other process documentation
Recommend process changes and manage engineering documentation updates
Ensure documentation control consistent with AS9100 and related quality requirements
Promote and maintain a strong safety culture within the GRE molding area
Ensure compliance with all applicable safety procedures and regulatory requirements
Coordinate shop-floor activities and support production scheduling
Support employee growth, training, and development initiatives
Support KPI reporting and continuous improvement efforts
Perform additional related duties as assigned
Qualification
Required
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
Ability to interpret technical documents, work instructions, engineering drawings, and data
Strong written communication skills for procedures and technical reports
Clear, effective verbal communication for cross-functional collaboration and technical instruction
Strong communication skills for technical direction and cross-functional alignment
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team-driven, fast-paced environment
Strong interpersonal skills for engaging individuals from diverse backgrounds
Ability to perform calculations involving pressure, temperature, weight, volume, and time
Comfortable with applied statistics and engineering mathematics relevant to molding analysis
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex process and quality data
Ability to resolve non-standard manufacturing problems using sound engineering judgment
Proficiency with Windows-based software, spreadsheets, word processing, and ERP/MRB systems
Ability to use data analysis tools, SPC software, and basic CAD applications
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
Requirements include close vision, depth perception, and color vision
Exposure to chemicals, moderate heat, mechanical equipment, air nozzles, and molding plates
Noise level may be moderate to loud depending on equipment in use
Occasional exposure to airborne particles and caustic materials
Estimated 0% travel; subject to change based on business needs
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
Training or certification in Lean, Six Sigma, 5S, or SPC highly desirable
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
Company
BIRNS, Inc.
Founded in 1954, BIRNS, Inc.
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Amy Brown
Chief Marketing Officer
Recent News
Company data provided by crunchbase