Manufacturing Process Technician

Ward Leonard, a Fairbanks Morse Defense Company, is an industry-leading provider of electric motor, generator, control, and service solutions critical to Naval applications for more than 120 years. Located in Thomaston, Connecticut, Ward Leonard has worked hard to build a reputation as being a trusted name in powering the defense industry. This trust within the market is not possible without the continued hard work, commitment, and dedication of our team who respect the importance of what we do and the impact it has on the servicemen and women.

Mission-Driven. Honor-Bound. Fairbanks Morse Defense. What’s your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense, it’s the rapid and effective support of the fleets that entrust us to design, develop, and deliver the best naval power technology on the planet. We’re one of the nation’s leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and Canadian Coast Guard. When you join Fairbanks Morse Defense, you join a legacy of commitment that spans 150 years. Fairbanks Morse Defense offers competitive benefits with a wide range of training and development opportunities. Our world-class teams are dedicated to helping every individual achieve their full potential. Discover what it’s like to be a part of the Fairbanks Morse Defense team here: https://www.fairbanksmorsedefense.com/careers

Manufacturing Process Technician

Position Summary:
We are looking for a hands-on and detail-oriented Manufacturing Process Technician to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will work directly on the shop floor, setting up and optimizing manufacturing processes, assisting CNC operators, and troubleshooting production issues. You will be instrumental in ensuring smooth and efficient operations using cutting-edge equipment, including 5-axis mill-turn machines, horizontal and vertical lathes, and cylindrical grinding machines.

Key Responsibilities:Hands-On Process Support & Optimization:

• Assist with in-process inspection methods to maintain high-quality manufacturing.
• Develop and update detailed work instructions for production staff.
• Work closely with CNC operators to fine-tune machine settings and improve process efficiency.
• Set up fixtures and tooling for new and existing parts to ensure proper manufacturing flow.
• Support the production team in troubleshooting and resolving machining issues.
• Monitor machine performance and assist in reaching the 90% Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) goal.
• Collect and analyze production data to drive continuous improvement.
• Use simulation software to verify CNC programs and ensure accuracy.
• Create and modify operation-level prints in SolidWorks and update engineering masters in Visual ERP.
• Interpret and apply ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards to ensure proper part specifications.
• Work with Quality and Design teams to address and resolve non-conformance issues.

Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting:

• Assist with CNC machine maintenance and conduct routine checks to ensure proper operation.
• Identify and address equipment issues to minimize downtime.
• Work with CNC manufacturing and maintenance teams to resolve machining and tooling problems.

Shop Floor Safety & Compliance:

• Monitor shop floor processes and enforce safety procedures.
• Ensure all tasks are performed in accordance with company safety policies and best practices.

Qualifications & Skills:

• U.S. Citizenship is required due to government contract work.
• High School Diploma required; Technical or trade school certification preferred.
• Hands-on experience with inspection and metrology tools such as micrometers, calipers, and optical comparators.
• Proficiency in CAD and 3D modeling software (SolidWorks experience preferred).
• Knowledge of ISO 9001:2015 standards and Lean manufacturing practices.
• Experience operating and maintaining 5-axis machining, turning, and grinding equipment is preferred.
• Familiarity with CNC controls, including Fanuc, OSP, and Siemens.
• Experience with CNC machine setup, tooling changes, and troubleshooting is a plus.

Physical & Environmental Requirements:

• Hands-on shop floor role, requiring standing, walking, and working directly with machinery.
• Use of overhead cranes for lifting; no lifting over 50 pounds required.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring scrap materials are properly disposed of.
• Adhere to all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements, including eye protection and safety footwear.
• Comply with all posted safety regulations and company policies.

Why Join Us?

• Be an integral part of a hands-on, skilled team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Work with advanced machining technology and gain valuable technical experience.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Opportunities for career growth and skill development.

If you enjoy working directly with cutting-edge machines and want to make an impact on precision manufacturing, apply today and become part of our team.

Fairbanks Morse Defense offers a competitive benefits package including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances, and 401k retirement plan with employer match. In addition, we offer paid time off, paid holidays, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled