Manufacturing Engineer

Company: Gear Motions, Inc.
Location: Tonawanda, New York
Job Type: Full-time
Reports To: Engineering Manager
Benefits: Comprehensive Benefits Package, 100% Company-Funded ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan)

We are Seeking:

Gear Motions – Buffalo Operations is a leading manufacturer of high-quality custom gears, serving customers who depend on precision, quality, and reliability. We are seeking an experienced, dynamic experienced Manufacturing Engineer to drive manufacturing excellence, optimize production processes, and implement continuous improvement initiatives. This position offers a unique opportunity for an individual who wants to make positive, welcomed changes to our manufacturing operations. For the right candidate, this role provides a direct pathway to professional growth and future management opportunities.

Why we are different:

Since 2006, Gear Motions has been 100% employee-owned. Through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), our team members directly share in our growth—in fact, our ESOP share value increased by nearly 24% last year. We are a tight-knit team of 34 employees where every team member has the opportunity to make a visible impact, take ownership, and truly value their work.

Key Responsibilities

Process Engineering function:

• Responsible for process engineering functions which includes preparation of all necessary information required to run any job including: master files, blueprints, specifying material, any outside service vendors, tooling requirements, accurate machine standards, clarification of any notes and/or exceptions, and all necessary customer contact required to complete the job.
• Lead/participate in Kaizen events and use Lean manufacturing techniques as required to make processes more efficient.
• Develop and implement optimal, cost-effective manufacturing methods on new and existing products.
• Revise methods suggested by new equipment, process changes, and special requirements. Make recommendations to improve manufacturing methods for cost-reduction, quality improvement and efficiency.
• Create a work order establishing the initial job schedule. Consults with manufacturing to develop accurate lead time and shipping schedules.
• Order entry and maintenance of customer record files in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Calculate materials for new orders and review any material certifications and if acceptable, pass them on to Quality Control for filing with the job.
• Perform related duties as assigned, within the scope of the Engineering/Purchasing Department.

Estimating & Customer Relations

• Review Requests for Quote (RFQs) and prepare detailed estimate sheets (time standards, material specs, outside services, tooling).
• Maintain and develop inside sales relationships with customers through proactive quote follow-up.
• Serve as the customer technical contact to clarify job notes, exceptions, and order requirements.

Operations Support

• Create work orders, establish initial job schedules, and consult with production on accurate lead times.
• Manage order entry and maintain customer record files per company policies.
• Calculate material requirements for new orders and review material certifications for Quality Control.

Qualifications & Skills

• Experience: 4–6 years of experience in a metal manufacturing environment (Required).
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering preferred. Associates degree with significant relevant experience will be fully considered.
• Software Skills: Proficiency in AutoCAD and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) is required. Experience with SolidWorks is highly helpful.
• Core Competencies: Strong mechanical aptitude, excellent problem-solving skills, and a high level of attention to detail.
• Teamwork: A collaborative mindset with a willingness to "pitch in" across departments in a smaller shop environment.

Benefits & Perks

• 100% Employee Ownership (ESOP): Receive company-funded shares annually.
• Career Growth: Direct visibility by leadership with pathways into engineering management.
• Impact: A smaller operation where your ideas are valued and quickly implemented.

Pay: $70,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• Metal Manufacturing: 4 years (Required)

Work Location: In person