Manufacturing & Product Design Lead Person

*\*\* Pay commensurate with related experience \*\**

We are a growing sport equipment manufacturer seeking a highly self-directed lead manufacturing person to lead product design and manufacturing execution in a CNC-driven wood and metal fabrication environment. This role is hands-on and entrepreneurial—owning everything from CAD modeling and CNC programming to process development and production launch.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-moving, resource-constrained environment and is comfortable moving between design workstation and shop floor daily.

Core Responsibilities

Product Development & Design

• Develop new sport equipment products from concept through production.
• Create detailed CAD models, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings.
• Perform DFM/DFA analysis to ensure efficient production in a CNC environment.
• Rapid prototype and iterate designs in collaboration with leadership.

CNC Programming & Shop Execution

• Write and optimize CNC programs (G-code/M-code) for mills and routers.
• Perform machine setup, prove-out, and first article validation.
• Design and fabricate fixtures and work-holding solutions.
• Troubleshoot machining issues in wood and metal applications.

Process & Operations Development

• Build manufacturing workflows and documentation from the ground up.
• Establish SOPs and quality checkpoints.
• Improve cycle times, reduce scrap, and optimize material usage.
• Support purchasing decisions for tooling, materials, and equipment

Cross-Functional Contribution

• Work directly with company leadership on product roadmap.
• Train machinists and shop personnel on new processes.
• Support customer-specific product modifications when needed.

Required Qualifications

• 3+ years of CNC manufacturing experience.
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Inventor, or similar).
• Strong working knowledge of G-code/M-code.
• Experience machining both wood and metal materials.
• Hands-on shop floor experience (setup and troubleshooting).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in sport equipment manufacturing or performance product development.
• CAM software proficiency (e.g., Mastercam, Fusion CAM, or similar).
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems.
• Fixture design experience.
• Knowledge of composite materials (if applicable to product line).

Core Competencies

• Technical precision and analytical problem-solving
• Process optimization mindset
• Strong collaboration and communication skills
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude
• Detail-oriented with high quality standards
• Ability to balance design creativity with production efficiency

Work Environment

• Combination of office engineering work and hands-on shop floor engagement.
• Regular exposure to machining environments (wood and metal shops).
• Requires use of PPE in manufacturing areas.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Comfortable wearing multiple hats.
• Strong bias toward action and problem-solving.
• Entrepreneurial mindset.
• Willing to work in a highly collaborative, less structured environment.
• Motivated by building systems from the ground up.

Pay: $75,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person