Production Process Engineer
Company : Cook Medical
Location : Poway, CA, 92064
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 3 January 2026
Overview
Accountable for applying engineering techniques to the Production Operation in support of the company’s strategic plan. Recommends manufacturing equipment and processes designed to be efficient, cost-effective, and to promote quality and reliability. Assesses current equipment and processes, and makes recommendations for changes. Helps to troubleshoot and repair equipment. Performs process engineering assignments (Equipment, Logistics, Operator Training, etc.) with detailed project plans and timelines. Work from generally stated objectives and guide the direction of assigned projects. Communicates detailed project status to all levels.
Pay Range: $90,000 - 105,000/yr
Responsibilities
- Evaluate existing Production processes, develop, recommend, document and implement new processes to improve quality, reduce costs and reduce cycle time.
- Assess machine capability and capacity
- Perform validation studies, with appropriate specified protocols
- Provide training to other personnel (production and engineering) as needed
- Perform customer Contract Review to ensure compliance to process capabilities
- Evaluate and Certify new Production equipment
- Investigate and solve technical problems as they occur
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
- Minimum 2 years exempt-level engineering work experience in a non-assembly, non-automated manufacturing environment with a focus on manufacturing process improvement and hands-on experience with troubleshooting manufacturing equipment and processes.
- B.S. in Mechanical Engineering. Mechanical Engineering strongly preferred other engineering disciplines considered.
- Work experience may substitute for educational requirement, per K-Tube equivalencies chart.
Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Solid understanding of the structure and properties of metals
- Analytical thinking and problem solving skills.
- Ability to apply fundamental Lean and Engineering concepts to real world activities and problems.
- Good understanding of measuring systems, essentials of non-destructive testing, and sampling plans.
- Prefer multi-disciplinary engineering experience, demonstrating the ability to apply engineering principles to explain observed system behavior.
- Prefer experience with database structures, ERP, 3D modeling, and/or programmable controllers.
- Must have good communication skills, both written and spoken.
- Must be proficient with MS Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook and SolidWorks
Physical Requirements:
- Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds
- Light to moderate physical effort required
- Regularly required to sit or stand, reach and move about the facility
Work Environment:
- Work performed in both a manufacturing and office environment
- Exposure to metals, lubricants, solvents, electrolytes and other hazardous materials
Personal Protective Equipment:
- Safety glasses and safety shoes are required
- Other personal safety equipment required as listed in SDS depending on task may include safety goggles, ear protection, full - face shield, apron, arm guards, rubber boots and gloves
Position Type: Hybrid – typically requires 3 days per week in the office and additional days as necessary
Status: Full Time/Exempt
Reports to: Operations Manager
We offer US based employees:
- Competitive base and bonus
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) plan with ER match - 100% on first 4% contributed, profit sharing plan with 6 year vesting schedule
- 15 days of PTO
- 8 paid holidays
- Office closure between December 23 - January 1
- 5 paid sick days
- Paid parental leave
- Tuition Assistance
Qualified candidates must be legally authorized to be employed in the United States. K-Tube does not intend to provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B or TN status) for this employment position.
We are proud to be an equal employment opportunity employer for minorities, women, protected veterans, disabled individuals, and any other protected class.
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Frequently asked questions
Poway's manufacturing sector steadily demands skilled Production Process Engineers, though competition remains moderate due to specialized mechanical engineering requirements. Candidates with hands-on troubleshooting experience and knowledge of lean manufacturing principles often stand out in local hiring pools.
While formal certifications are not strictly required, credentials in Lean Six Sigma or familiarity with ERP systems can significantly improve a process engineer’s prospects in Poway. Employers in this region value demonstrated skills in process validation and manufacturing optimization.
This position involves evaluating manufacturing equipment, optimizing production workflows to reduce cycle times, and conducting validation protocols. Hands-on troubleshooting and coordinating operator training are also central, ensuring quality and efficiency in manufacturing processes.
Employers prioritize candidates proficient in mechanical engineering fundamentals, with abilities in SolidWorks modeling, data analysis using Excel, and practical knowledge of non-destructive testing. Experience with programmable controllers and ERP software also adds a competitive edge.
Professionals often progress from hands-on process engineering roles to managerial positions overseeing multiple projects or departments. Developing multidisciplinary engineering expertise and leadership skills can accelerate promotion opportunities within manufacturing companies.
Cook Medical integrates this engineering role with strategic manufacturing goals, emphasizing cost-effective process improvements and equipment validation. The company also promotes cross-training and communication across teams to maintain high-quality standards in their medical device production.
At Cook Medical, this role uniquely blends hybrid work flexibility with a focus on medical manufacturing compliance. Employees benefit from a structured bonus system and comprehensive benefits, reflecting the company's commitment to supporting engineering talent in Poway's competitive market.
Salaries for this role in Poway typically range between $90,000 and $105,000 annually, aligning with the local cost of living and the specialized skills required. Compensation packages often include bonuses and benefits like medical insurance and 401(k) matching.
Imagine encountering unexpected machine downtime during a critical production run. The engineer must swiftly diagnose mechanical faults, coordinate repair efforts, and adjust process parameters to minimize delays while maintaining product quality and safety standards.
Poway's manufacturing landscape, with exposure to metals and chemicals, requires engineers to adhere strictly to safety protocols. Physical demands such as lifting and moving equipment, combined with hybrid office-facility work settings, shape daily operational responsibilities.