STEM OPT Manufacturing Engineer Jobs
Manufacturing Engineer roles qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension if your degree falls under an eligible CIP code in engineering or a related STEM field. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify, and you'll need a signed I-983 training plan outlining how the role develops your technical skills in a structured learning environment.
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We develop, manufacture, and supply dental implants, clear aligners, instruments, CADCAM prosthetics and biomaterials for use in esthetic dentistry, tooth replacement and restoration solutions or to prevent tooth loss.
We empower our employees to perform and make an impact, to question the status quo, to drive change, to stay ahead of the competition. From the first Dental Implant in 1974 to the latest Digital Solution – we do things differently than others
We deliver innovation based on evidence. This is part of our employer culture as well as an exceptional team spirit that truly encourages diversity and a powerful “can-do” attitude.
#WeChangeDentistry every day. Be part of it.
Summary of Position
As a Senior Manufacturing Process Engineer, you will provide technical leadership in the development, optimization, and scaling of manufacturing processes for orthodontic device production. In addition to driving process efficiency, quality, and compliance, you will lead cross-functional improvement initiatives, support production planning through capacity management and manufacturing readiness reviews, and mentor engineering teams. You will collaborate closely with Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Product Development, and Site Leadership to ensure manufacturing performance aligns with business objectives while supporting innovation, operational excellence, and long-term growth strategies.
Essential Functions and Duties
As a Senior Manufacturing Process Engineer, you will be regarded as a deep expert related to Orthodontics with broad knowledge of related fields. In this role, you will
- Evaluate and analyze existing manufacturing processes, identifying areas for improvement in terms of productivity, cost-effectiveness, and quality
- Develop and implement process improvements to enhance product quality, reduce waste, and increase efficiency
- Collaborate with product development teams to ensure manufacturability of new orthodontic products, providing input on design for manufacturability (DFM) principles
- Design and develop manufacturing processes, including assembly, machining, molding, and finishing, ensuring compliance with regulatory and quality standards
- Conduct time studies, capacity analysis, and line balancing to optimize production flow and maximize throughput
- Provide technical support and troubleshooting for manufacturing issues, working closely with production personnel to resolve problems and minimize downtime
- Implement lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives to drive operational excellence
- Develop and maintain manufacturing work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and other documentation to ensure process consistency and compliance
- Collaborate with the quality assurance team to develop and execute process validation protocols and perform statistical process control (SPC) analysis
- Stay updated on industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices in orthodontic manufacturing processes
- Lead manufacturing capacity reviews and production readiness planning, partnering with Operations and Supply Chain teams to ensure adequate resources, equipment utilization, and long-term manufacturing capability. (5%)
- Facilitate and lead cross-functional engineering meetings, driving alignment between Manufacturing, Quality, Operations, Maintenance, and Product Development teams to resolve technical challenges and support strategic objectives. (5%)
- Provide technical leadership and mentorship to Process Engineers and Manufacturing Technicians, promoting best practices, problem-solving methodologies, and continuous development of engineering capabilities. (5%)
- Lead complex manufacturing projects and site-wide improvement initiatives, managing timelines, risks, stakeholder communication, and implementation activities to achieve operational goals. (5%)
- Develop manufacturing strategies and technology roadmaps to support future growth, automation opportunities, and operational excellence initiatives. (5%)
Non-essential Functions and Duties
- Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned
- Stays current with various material removal, inspection, and manufacturing system technologies and philosophies
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degree is a plus
- 3+ years’ experience in manufacturing process engineering and GMP, preferably in the orthodontics or medical device industry
- 2+ years’ experience with CAD/CAM software and knowledge of design for manufacturability (DFM) principles
- 1+ years’ regulatory requirements and quality standards relevant to orthodontic device manufacturing (e.g., FDA regulations, ISO 13485)
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes, such as assembly, machining, molding, and finishing, specific to orthodontic devices
- Photopolymer Additive manufacturing DLP, SLA or other additive manufacturing processes experience preferred
- Proficiency in applying lean manufacturing principles, process optimization techniques, and statistical analysis tools
- Understanding 6 sigma tools like fish-bone diagrams, 5 Whys approach, PFMEA, SPC, root cause analysis, Lean manufacturing etc
- Detail-oriented with a focus on quality and continuous improvement
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to analyze complex manufacturing issues
- Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams
Salary: $85,000–$95,000 /Annually. The final pay for this position will vary based on geographic location and candidate experience relative to what the company reasonably anticipates for this position.
Additional Information:
Whether you’re looking to build your career, improve your health, or brighten your SMILE, we offer generous benefits to help you achieve your goals.
- Very Competitive total compensation plans
- A 401(K) plan to help you plan for your future with an employer match
- Great health, dental and vision insurance packages to fit your needs to ensure you’re happy and healthy. Straumann contributes a healthy portion towards employees’ premium.
- Generous PTO allowance - plenty of time to recharge those batteries!
Please understand that we do not need external support by recruiting agencies and consultants to fill this vacancy. Thank you for respecting this.
Videos To Watch:
https://youtu.be/3lq5BLAvIdQ
Ready to make an impact?
We develop, manufacture, and supply dental implants, clear aligners, instruments, CADCAM prosthetics and biomaterials for use in esthetic dentistry, tooth replacement and restoration solutions or to prevent tooth loss.
We empower our employees to perform and make an impact, to question the status quo, to drive change, to stay ahead of the competition. From the first Dental Implant in 1974 to the latest Digital Solution – we do things differently than others
We deliver innovation based on evidence. This is part of our employer culture as well as an exceptional team spirit that truly encourages diversity and a powerful “can-do” attitude.
#WeChangeDentistry every day. Be part of it.
Summary of Position
As a Senior Manufacturing Process Engineer, you will provide technical leadership in the development, optimization, and scaling of manufacturing processes for orthodontic device production. In addition to driving process efficiency, quality, and compliance, you will lead cross-functional improvement initiatives, support production planning through capacity management and manufacturing readiness reviews, and mentor engineering teams. You will collaborate closely with Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Product Development, and Site Leadership to ensure manufacturing performance aligns with business objectives while supporting innovation, operational excellence, and long-term growth strategies.
Essential Functions and Duties
As a Senior Manufacturing Process Engineer, you will be regarded as a deep expert related to Orthodontics with broad knowledge of related fields. In this role, you will
- Evaluate and analyze existing manufacturing processes, identifying areas for improvement in terms of productivity, cost-effectiveness, and quality
- Develop and implement process improvements to enhance product quality, reduce waste, and increase efficiency
- Collaborate with product development teams to ensure manufacturability of new orthodontic products, providing input on design for manufacturability (DFM) principles
- Design and develop manufacturing processes, including assembly, machining, molding, and finishing, ensuring compliance with regulatory and quality standards
- Conduct time studies, capacity analysis, and line balancing to optimize production flow and maximize throughput
- Provide technical support and troubleshooting for manufacturing issues, working closely with production personnel to resolve problems and minimize downtime
- Implement lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives to drive operational excellence
- Develop and maintain manufacturing work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and other documentation to ensure process consistency and compliance
- Collaborate with the quality assurance team to develop and execute process validation protocols and perform statistical process control (SPC) analysis
- Stay updated on industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices in orthodontic manufacturing processes
- Lead manufacturing capacity reviews and production readiness planning, partnering with Operations and Supply Chain teams to ensure adequate resources, equipment utilization, and long-term manufacturing capability. (5%)
- Facilitate and lead cross-functional engineering meetings, driving alignment between Manufacturing, Quality, Operations, Maintenance, and Product Development teams to resolve technical challenges and support strategic objectives. (5%)
- Provide technical leadership and mentorship to Process Engineers and Manufacturing Technicians, promoting best practices, problem-solving methodologies, and continuous development of engineering capabilities. (5%)
- Lead complex manufacturing projects and site-wide improvement initiatives, managing timelines, risks, stakeholder communication, and implementation activities to achieve operational goals. (5%)
- Develop manufacturing strategies and technology roadmaps to support future growth, automation opportunities, and operational excellence initiatives. (5%)
Non-essential Functions and Duties
- Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned
- Stays current with various material removal, inspection, and manufacturing system technologies and philosophies
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degree is a plus
- 3+ years’ experience in manufacturing process engineering and GMP, preferably in the orthodontics or medical device industry
- 2+ years’ experience with CAD/CAM software and knowledge of design for manufacturability (DFM) principles
- 1+ years’ regulatory requirements and quality standards relevant to orthodontic device manufacturing (e.g., FDA regulations, ISO 13485)
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes, such as assembly, machining, molding, and finishing, specific to orthodontic devices
- Photopolymer Additive manufacturing DLP, SLA or other additive manufacturing processes experience preferred
- Proficiency in applying lean manufacturing principles, process optimization techniques, and statistical analysis tools
- Understanding 6 sigma tools like fish-bone diagrams, 5 Whys approach, PFMEA, SPC, root cause analysis, Lean manufacturing etc
- Detail-oriented with a focus on quality and continuous improvement
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to analyze complex manufacturing issues
- Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams
Salary: $85,000–$95,000 /Annually. The final pay for this position will vary based on geographic location and candidate experience relative to what the company reasonably anticipates for this position.
Additional Information:
Whether you’re looking to build your career, improve your health, or brighten your SMILE, we offer generous benefits to help you achieve your goals.
- Very Competitive total compensation plans
- A 401(K) plan to help you plan for your future with an employer match
- Great health, dental and vision insurance packages to fit your needs to ensure you’re happy and healthy. Straumann contributes a healthy portion towards employees’ premium.
- Generous PTO allowance - plenty of time to recharge those batteries!
Please understand that we do not need external support by recruiting agencies and consultants to fill this vacancy. Thank you for respecting this.
Videos To Watch:
https://youtu.be/3lq5BLAvIdQ
See all 998+ STEM OPT Manufacturing Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new STEM OPT Manufacturing Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding STEM OPT Authorization as a Manufacturing Engineer
Verify your CIP code before applying
Check that your degree's Classification of Instructional Programs code appears on USCIS's STEM Designated Degree Program List. Mechanical, industrial, and materials engineering degrees almost always qualify, but interdisciplinary programs sometimes carry unexpected codes that need DSO confirmation.
Target manufacturers already enrolled in E-Verify
Search the E-Verify employer database before reaching out to companies. Many mid-size manufacturers haven't enrolled yet and can't onboard STEM OPT students without completing E-Verify enrollment first, which adds weeks to your start date.
Build an I-983 training plan before your offer stage
Draft a template I-983 that maps manufacturing engineering tasks, process improvement projects, and quality systems work to your STEM degree competencies. Arriving with a draft speeds up employer sign-off and signals you understand the compliance requirement.
Use OFLC Wage Search to anchor salary conversations
Look up the prevailing wage for Manufacturing Engineer roles at the DOL's OFLC Wage Search by SOC code and metro area. Employers filing an LCA for future H-1B visa sponsorship must meet this floor, so knowing it helps you evaluate offers with a future visa path in mind.
Find STEM OPT-ready manufacturing roles on Migrate Mate
Search for Manufacturing Engineer positions on Migrate Mate, which filters for employers with active E-Verify enrollment and H-1B filing history in engineering roles. That filing history signals an employer already understands work authorization timelines and compliance requirements.
Understand cap-gap protection if your OPT bridges an H-1B filing
If your employer files an H-1B petition before your STEM OPT expires and you're selected in the lottery, cap-gap rules through USCIS automatically extend your work authorization through September 30. Confirm your employer plans to file before your EAD end date, not after.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Manufacturing Engineer role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Yes, if your degree is in an eligible STEM field such as mechanical, industrial, manufacturing, or materials engineering and carries a qualifying CIP code on the USCIS STEM Designated Degree Program List. The role itself must also provide practical training directly related to your degree field, which you document in the I-983 training plan your employer signs.
What does the I-983 training plan need to include for a Manufacturing Engineer?
The I-983 must identify specific learning objectives tied to your engineering degree, name the supervisor responsible for mentorship, and describe how manufacturing tasks, such as process design, quality control, or Lean implementation, build on your academic training. USCIS requires both you and your employer to sign it, and your DSO must receive a copy before the extension is authorized.
Does my manufacturing employer need to be enrolled in E-Verify to hire me on STEM OPT?
Yes. E-Verify enrollment is a federal requirement for all STEM OPT employers, not optional. Before accepting an offer, confirm the company is actively enrolled by checking the E-Verify employer search. If they aren't enrolled yet, they must complete enrollment before your STEM OPT start date, and the process can take one to two weeks.
How do I find Manufacturing Engineer jobs where the employer understands STEM OPT requirements?
Migrate Mate filters manufacturing engineering roles by E-Verify enrollment and employer H-1B filing history in engineering occupations. Employers who have previously sponsored H-1B petitions for engineers are generally familiar with work authorization timelines and the I-983 training plan requirement, which reduces friction during onboarding.
What happens to my STEM OPT authorization if my employer files an H-1B petition on my behalf?
If your employer submits a timely H-1B cap-subject petition before your EAD expires and you're selected in the lottery, USCIS cap-gap rules extend your STEM OPT work authorization automatically through September 30 of that fiscal year. You can continue working at the same employer in the same role without a gap in authorization while the petition is pending.