STEM OPT Manufacturing Process Engineer Jobs
Manufacturing Process Engineer roles qualify for the STEM OPT 24-month extension if your degree is in engineering, manufacturing engineering technology, or a related CIP-coded STEM field. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify to hire you on STEM OPT, and you'll need a signed I-983 training plan in place before your extension begins.
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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 46+ STEM OPT Manufacturing Process Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new STEM OPT Manufacturing Process Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding STEM OPT Authorization as a Manufacturing Process Engineer
Verify your degree qualifies by CIP code
Check your degree's CIP code against USCIS's STEM Designated Degree Program List before applying. Engineering technology and industrial engineering degrees qualify, but some manufacturing-adjacent programs don't. Confirm with your DSO before targeting STEM OPT roles.
Confirm E-Verify enrollment before accepting offers
Ask the recruiter directly whether the company is enrolled in E-Verify before your final interview round. Manufacturers with government contracts are often enrolled, but smaller contract manufacturers and job shops frequently are not. Verify through the E-Verify employer search tool.
Build an I-983 training plan around your specific role
Tie your I-983 learning objectives to measurable process engineering outcomes: cycle time reduction targets, defect rate benchmarks, or lean methodology milestones. Vague plans get pushed back by DSOs, and delays can gap your work authorization between OPT and STEM OPT.
Target manufacturers with active LCA filing histories
Use Migrate Mate to filter for employers with verified STEM OPT hiring records in manufacturing. Companies that have filed Labor Condition Applications for engineering roles are already familiar with OFLC wage requirements and the E-Verify process, which speeds up onboarding.
Use OFLC Wage Search to anchor your salary discussions
Look up the prevailing wage for Manufacturing Process Engineer under your target location's wage level before negotiations. Your employer must pay at or above DOL's prevailing wage once you transition to H-1B visa, and knowing that floor now helps you avoid offers that won't support future sponsorship.
Plan your H-1B cap-gap timing around April registration
USCIS opens H-1B registration in March for an October 1 start date. If you're selected in the lottery and your STEM OPT expires before October 1, cap-gap automatically extends your work authorization. Coordinate your offer start date and extension timeline with your DSO to avoid gaps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Manufacturing Process Engineer role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Yes, if your underlying degree is on USCIS's STEM Designated Degree Program List. Engineering disciplines including mechanical, industrial, manufacturing, and systems engineering typically qualify by CIP code. Your DSO confirms eligibility before filing the STEM OPT extension, and the role itself must be directly related to your degree field, not just adjacent to it.
Does every manufacturing employer that wants to hire me on STEM OPT need to be enrolled in E-Verify?
Yes, E-Verify enrollment is a hard requirement for any employer hiring a STEM OPT student. This applies to the specific legal entity signing your offer letter, not just the parent company. Contract manufacturers, staffing agencies placing you at a client site, and smaller job shops all need independent E-Verify enrollment. Verify enrollment through E-Verify's employer search before signing an offer.
What goes into the I-983 training plan for a Manufacturing Process Engineer position?
Your I-983 must describe how the role relates to your STEM degree, outline specific learning objectives tied to process engineering work, and include your employer's supervision and evaluation plan. For manufacturing roles, strong I-983 plans reference concrete deliverables such as process improvement projects, quality system contributions, or production efficiency goals. Your DSO reviews and must sign the plan before USCIS accepts your STEM OPT application.
How does cap-gap protection work if my STEM OPT expires while my H-1B is pending?
If your employer files an H-1B petition before your STEM OPT expires and you're selected in the lottery, cap-gap extends your work authorization through September 30 of the relevant fiscal year, or until USCIS makes a decision on your petition, whichever comes first. You can continue working as a Manufacturing Process Engineer without interruption during that period. USCIS provides cap-gap guidance on its website, and your DSO updates your I-20 to reflect the extended status.
Where can I find Manufacturing Process Engineer jobs with employers that are already set up to hire STEM OPT students?
Migrate Mate filters Manufacturing Process Engineer roles by employers with verified E-Verify enrollment and active hiring history for international students on OPT. That means you're looking at companies that already understand the I-983 process and DOL wage requirements, rather than spending your first weeks educating a new HR team. Start your search on Migrate Mate to focus on employers prepared to move quickly.