Rideout Arsenal is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer I-III to design, implement, and continuously improve production processes for firearms and related accessories. The role connects CAD/CAM work to CNC execution, with an emphasis on tight tolerances, quality, and efficient manufacturing performance.
Role Focus
Designs and refines manufacturing processes to bridge product requirements from engineering into reliable, repeatable output. Serves as a primary technical resource for Autodesk Fusion across CAD and CAM activities, and supports CNC setup and optimization to improve throughput while minimizing waste.
Key Responsibilities
- Use Autodesk Fusion to create, modify, and optimize 3D models and 2D technical drawings for firearms components.
- Develop and simulate complex toolpaths in Fusion to support efficient material removal and high-quality surface finishes.
- Design and oversee fabrication of custom workholding and fixtures to improve repeatability and reduce setup times.
- Set up, program, and troubleshoot FANUC-based and Mazak CNC mills and lathes.
- Write and edit G-code to fine-tune production runs and optimize cycle times.
- Identify and source high-performance cutting tools, managing tool life cycles to maintain consistent part quality.
- Apply GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) to verify components meet strict safety and performance specifications.
- Ensure manufacturing processes comply with internal quality management systems.
- Lead troubleshooting for production defects and implement permanent corrective actions to reduce scrap rates.
- Provide technical guidance to CNC Operators and Technicians (Levels 1–3) to resolve real-time production issues.
- Identify assembly and machining bottlenecks and apply Lean Manufacturing principles to improve profitability.
- Develop standard work and documentation for repeatable manufacturing.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum age: 21 years old.
- Education: Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Industrial Engineering.
- Experience: In accordance with the manufacturing engineering level, specifically within firearms, aerospace, or other high-precision manufacturing environments.
- CAD/CAM: Beginner to expert mastery of Autodesk Fusion (CAD and CAM) is preferred; equivalent experience in SolidWorks, SolidCam, Mastercam, NX, or similar may also be considered.
- CNC: Deep hands-on experience with FANUC controls and multi-axis CNC machinery.
- Materials knowledge: Strong understanding of metallurgy, heat treatment, and surface finishes (e.g., Anodizing, Cerakote, Nitride) common in firearms manufacturing.
- Compliance: Ability to pass a comprehensive background check and meet all federal requirements for handling firearms, including ITAR/EAR compliance.
- Role overlap: Must also meet all qualifications of the Manufacturing Technician role.
- Physical requirements: Lift up to 50 pounds; stand, sit, bend, and/or move for 8+ hours/day; use PPE effectively.
- Work skills: Manual dexterity and adequate vision to operate tools, computers, and machinery.
Technologies and Tools
- Autodesk Fusion (CAD, CAM), CAD, CAM
- FANUC controls
- Mazak CNC mills and lathes
- G-code
- GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing)
- SolidWorks, SolidCam, Mastercam, NX
- PPE
- ITAR/EAR compliance
Compensation
Pay: $45,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year
- Level I Manufacturing Engineer I: 0–2 Years, starting at $45,000/yr*
- Level II Manufacturing Engineer II: 2–5 Years, starting at $60,000/yr
- Level III Senior Manufacturing Engineer: 5–8+ Years, starting at $80,000/yr
*Commensurate with experience
Success Metrics
- Cycle Time Reduction: Achieving a targeted percentage reduction in machining time for core components.
- Scrap Rate: Maintaining or reducing scrap and rework rates.
- OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness): Maximizing machine uptime through better programming and preventative maintenance schedules.
- New Product Integration: Successfully transitioning designs from prototyping to full-scale production.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Rideout Arsenal is a rapidly growing manufacturer. Employees who demonstrate initiative and mastery may have opportunities to advance into leadership, engineering, quality, other operations, or cross-trained roles.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Life insurance
- 401K with company match
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and other approved leave types
- Ten paid holidays
- Paid training
- 401(k) matching
Additional benefit items listed: Dental insurance, Health insurance, Paid time off, Vision insurance
Location and Work Type
- Location: Thomasville, GA 31792
- Work setup: In person (onsite)
Application Screening
- Application question: Are you at least 21 years of age?
Education and Language
- Education: Bachelor's (Required)
- Language: English (Required)
