Lead Gear Engineer

Lead Gear Engineer

QPT is partnering with a client to identify an experienced Lead Gear Engineer to strengthen their gear-manufacturing operations. This role focuses on improving quality, minimizing scrap, supporting scheduling needs, and driving process enhancements. The position also plays a key role in developing and mentoring team members to ensure consistent, high-level performance across all gear-related projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Program, optimize, and troubleshoot Oerlikon G-Series and Kapp Niles VX-Series gear grinding equipment
• Support development of hypoid and spiral bevel gears using KIMoS
• Program and troubleshoot Klingelnberg P-Series inspection machines
• Prepare documentation and complete PPAP activity for new or revised gear products
• Oversee roll-testing setup, programming, and problem solving
• Support programming and troubleshooting for shaping operations
• Create or update PFMEAs and DFMEAs
• Use KISSsoft and KIMoS to evaluate and refine gear designs
• Develop clear setup sheets, work instructions, and process documentation for all gear-manufacturing steps
• Review distortion trends and recommend machining allowances before/after heat treatment
• Mentor cell specialists and engineering staff on gear-manufacturing best practices
• Perform routine machine care and ensure equipment is kept in good working order
• Maintain a clean, organized work area aligned with manufacturing standards
• Help ensure steady material and part flow throughout the manufacturing cell
• Follow all safety protocols
• Support training and skill development efforts for manufacturing team members
• Contribute to quality, scrap-reduction, and throughput-improvement goals

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering
• At least 10 years of hands-on experience in gear design and production
• Proficiency with:
• Oerlikon G-Series gear grinders
• Kapp Niles VX-Series gear grinders
• Klingelnberg P-Series inspection systems
• Gear shaping, hobbing, and skiving
• Bevel and spur gear roll-testing equipment (Gleason preferred)
• KIMoS and KISSsoft for gear modeling and analysis
• Strong background in PFMEA/DFMEA development
• Experience working with carburized or nitrided steels and post-heat-treat processes
• Ability to meet physical requirements (lifting, pushing/pulling, grip strength, overhead reach)
• Must be a U.S. citizen
• Ability to obtain a U.S. Government Security Clearance if required