Overview of Engineering Roles & Core Competencies

Related Documents: Project Delivery Overview Engineer Progression Framework FE Workflow PE Workflow Glossary

The Engineering department is responsible for transforming concepts into products by clearly communicating complex information. Engineers analyze data from various sources (drawings, models, specifications) and synthesize it into actionable information.

For definitions of acronyms and terms used in this document, see the Glossary.

Career levels: Fabrication and Production Engineers are hired and developed as Engineer I or Engineer II aligned to role needs. Advancement from I to II follows the Engineer Progression Framework (merit-based; not automatic with tenure).

Fabrication Engineer (FE)

Focuses on developing design engineering (DE) geometries into fabrication-ready geometries. The end goal is models that are manageable in programming and can be assembled after fabrication.

Shared expectations (all FE levels)

  • Create shop drawings that describe material, hardware, size, build strategy, and shipping components.
  • Ensure material, hardware, and outside-vendor scope are ordered and received before approval where applicable.
  • Pick up redlines from approved drawing sets and update shop drawings.
  • Produce a clean PE handoff file, shipping component list, and meet Epicor release expectations (FE to PE Release): Field Dimensions Received, Shop Drawings Approved, BOM Complete, and the full pre-release checklist.

Fabrication Engineer I

Core contributor: executes fabrication-level 3D and 2D with minimal oversight once onboarded; partners with PMs and senior engineers; tracks time accurately and respects labor budgets; contributes observations to improve workflows. Typically 1–3 years relevant experience; strong Rhino and drafting proficiency; detail-oriented. Preferred: related degree; basic Grasshopper.

Fabrication Engineer II

Senior contributor and formal mentor: leads complex modeling and client/PM-facing technical contact on significant work; solves hard geometry, data, or workflow problems (e.g. advanced parametric workflows); mentors FE Is on quality, time entry, and budgets; may be invited to the TSC for department standards and R&D. Typically 4–6 years relevant experience; advanced Rhino and Grasshopper; demonstrated mentorship. Preferred: related degree; experience leading client-facing technical discussions.

Production Engineer (PE)

Handles program-related toolpaths, reference geometries, and information needed to fabricate jobs on the floor.

Shared expectations (all PE levels)

  • Assemble the production release package: Master Parts List, Lay-up Summary, CAM outputs as required.
  • Take the PE Rhino file from FE as the working production file; produce a cleaned _SHOP model when needed.
  • Place FE shop drawings in Production_Drawings and production SKs/cut sheets for CNC.

Production Engineer I

Core execution: develops 3- and 5-axis CNC programs and fixtures with increasing independence; supports operators; documents best practices; tracks time and budgets accurately. Typically 1–3 years relevant experience; Mastercam proficiency; solid machining fundamentals. Preferred: manufacturing technology credential; operator experience.

Production Engineer II

Senior expert and mentor: leads complex production runs and advanced CAM/fixture strategy; mentors PE Is; drives measurable workflow improvements; troubleshoots critical floor issues. Typically 5+ years experience; strong Mastercam and advanced fabrication strategy. Preferred: degree in related field; 5-axis experience. May be invited to TSC (e.g. production workflow initiatives).

General Engineer Competencies

Production Deliverables

Create high-fidelity 3D/parametric modeling and drafting deliverables. Improve information transfer to clients and shop.

Field Coordination

Gather field dimensions, conduct laser scans, perform site visits, document conditions, generate reports, and coordinate with Project Managers (PMs), Construction Managers, and Installers.

Process Management

Work with PMs to meet project and production goals, reimagine workflows, own processes and products, and proactively provide solutions.

Time Management

Develop reliable deliverable schedules, make timely decisions, track hours/progress against budget, and escalate significant challenges.

Accountability

Clearly state actions and their purpose, proactively identify problems, effectively communicate solutions, deliver results positively, and collaborate with peers.

Engineering Assistant (EA)

The Engineering Assistant plays a central role in setting up and managing various job types within Epicor.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Manage Epicor materials database, ensuring standardization of entries and timely response to new part requests
  • Create Jobs in coordination with PM and Engineers, updating sales orders and producing Epicor entries, including:
    • Primary jobs
    • Sample jobs (SMP)
    • Mockups
    • Manufacturing jobs (WC and MT)
  • Update job scheduling due to ship date changes using scheduling workbenches in Epicor
  • Monitor data health, troubleshoot part entries, and gain familiarity with all of Epicor’s function and utility

For detailed procedures, see the Engineering Assistant (EA) Workflow.

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