Manufacturing Engineer (RFQ & Pre-Production Planning)

Company: Halcyon Manufacturing, Inc
Location: San Jose
Posted on: January 19, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Job Title: Manufacturing Engineer (RFQ & Pre-Production Planning) Location: 633 Giguere Ct, San Jose, CA 95133 Department: Production / Manufacturing Engineering Reports to: CEO/Operations Manager Job Type: Full-Time Company Overview Halcyon Manufacturing is a modern contract manufacturing company specializing in high-precision CNC machining for industries including Semiconductor, Medical, Aerospace, and Defense. We operate in a fast-paced prototype environment where speed, technical capability, and teamwork are critical. Our facility is clean, well-organized, and equipped with advanced CNC equipment, supporting complex, high-mix, low-volume work. Job Summary Halcyon Manufacturing is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to support RFQ quoting, manufacturability review, and pre-production planning in a rapid-prototype environment. This role is ideal for a candidate with a strong machining background who understands how parts are actually made and can translate that knowledge into accurate estimates, routing plans, and clear production strategies. The Manufacturing Engineer works closely with the Programming Manager, CNC Programmers, and Production Manager to develop practical, executable manufacturing plans that support speed, reduce rework, and improve first-pass success. This role does not replace programming or production decision-making, but acts as a collaborative technical partner in early planning and quoting. Key Responsibilities RFQ Review & Estimating Review RFQs, customer drawings, and CAD models to assess manufacturability and job fit. Identify technical risks, complexity drivers, and potential production challenges early. Prepare accurate labor and process estimates for CNC milling (3-axis / 5-axis), turning, and secondary operations. Create initial routing trees and operation sequences in JobBOSS ERP during the quoting phase. Pre-Production Planning Expand and refine routing after PO award in collaboration with Programming and Production. Develop lightweight pre-production plans including setup concepts, tooling considerations, and risk notes. Participate in pre-production discussions for complex or high-risk parts. Ensure travelers and routing steps are clear, practical, and aligned with the machining approach. Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with CNC Programmers to align on machining strategy and execution approach. Partner with the Production Manager to validate real-world feasibility and shop-floor execution. Communicate key manufacturing risks or assumptions to Quality Engineering and QC as needed. Provide technical clarification during production when questions arise. Qualifications Experience: Minimum 5 years hands-on CNC machining experience (Mill and/or Lathe required). Manufacturing Knowledge: Strong understanding of setups, tooling, fixturing, and machining strategy. Estimating Experience: Proven experience quoting complex CNC parts in a prototype or job-shop environment. Technical Skills: Strong blueprint reading and GD&T knowledge. ERP Systems: Experience with JobBOSS or similar ERP systems preferred. Collaboration: Comfortable working closely with Programming, Production, and Quality teams. Environment: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-mix, rapid-turn manufacturing environment. Technical Skills Strong GD&T knowledge with experience working to tight tolerances (±.0001). Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and CAD models. Experience machining a wide range of materials including aluminum, steels, stainless steels, and super alloys. Practical understanding of CNC milling (3-axis and 5-axis) and turning processes. Core Attributes Practical problem-solver with strong manufacturing intuition. Clear communicator able to explain technical concepts across departments. Detail-oriented without overcomplicating processes. Collaborative mindset with respect for shared decision-making. Comfortable balancing speed and accuracy in a prototype environment. Compensation & Benefits Pay: $40.00 – $50.00 per hour (DOE) Benefits: Health & Dental Paid Holidays Paid Time Off (PTO) Other Requirements Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. Permanent U.S. resident required. Work Schedule Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Keywords: Halcyon Manufacturing, Inc, Palo Alto , Manufacturing Engineer (RFQ & Pre-Production Planning), Engineering , San Jose, California