Manufacturing Technician
Date: Jun 24, 2026
Location: Blacksburg, VA, US
Company: Tenneco
At Tenneco, we don’t follow industry standards; we set them, and we don’t settle for being best-in-class because we hustle to be better than best-in-class. Whether it’s our Core Values – radical candor, simplify, organizational velocity, tenacious execution and win – or our Get Stuff Done (GSD) mindset, we’re determined to become the most trusted partner and best manufacturer and distributor to the transportation industry.
With a product portfolio as expansive as it is innovative, an obsessive commitment to quality and excellence, and a global presence, we’re all about getting stuff done, so we can win.
How do we make it happen? Through the Tenneco Way. Fueled by our Core Values, a winning mindset and a relentless commitment to excellence, the Tenneco Way is how we win. It’s what keeps Team Tenneco bold, driven, and unapologetically focused on pushing past limits and redefining success.
Here, you’ll work alongside a team of relentless problem-solvers who are committed to making a tangible impact. If you’re ready to break boundaries, deliver results, and enjoy the ride along the way, you’ll thrive here.
Want to learn more about who we are? Check out our website to discover the Tenneco Way
Job Title: Manufacturing Technician
Reports to: Senior Manufacturing Engineer
Job Summary
We are seeking a Manufacturing Technician who will be responsible for supporting manufacturing operations through process improvement, equipment optimization, and technical problem-solving. This role focuses on improving production efficiency, quality, safety, and environmental performance by implementing process changes, supporting equipment maintenance programs, and troubleshooting machine and tooling issues. The position works closely with production teams to identify opportunities for continuous improvement, document and implement process changes, provide employee training, and ensure compliance with quality, safety, and environmental standards.
The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, machine setup and operation experience, problem-solving skills, and the ability to support projects from design through installation. Experience with CAD design, preventative maintenance systems, and manufacturing process improvement is preferred. This role requires a hands-on presence in a manufacturing environment, including standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working safely around industrial equipment while adhering to all company, environmental, safety, and IATF 16949 requirements.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for implementing process improvements on the floor.
- May be responsible for entire project from design through installation, or a portion of the project.
- Also responsible for assisting in day-to-day machine and tooling problem resolution.
Specific Duties:
- Promotes continuous improvement in environmental and safety issues by ensuring that equipment is designed, modified, or repaired to maintain and improve safety and environmental performance. Reacts immediately to safety issues as they arise.
- Follow all environmental and safety policies and procedures.
- Monitors and controls current processes and utilizes design and mechanical skills to help improve such processes.
- Identifies, implements, and evaluates process improvements (within individual capability) at the unit level and communicates these changes to the department.
- Participates in process improvement groups.
- Identifies the technical training needs of the unit and assists in the development of training programs.
- Write AR's and EARs as required.
- Documents process improvements through print changes and procedure changes.
- Trains all employees affected by process changes.
- Provides necessary technical support for plant safety and resolution of safety deficiencies within the department.
- Utilizes constraint management to maximize process output.
- Ensures equipment availability and capability through administration of the Preventative Maintenance Program.
- Provides support as requested by Supervisor.
Education
- An associate’s degree in engineering science or Machine Design is preferred.
Experience
- Four years of experience in machine operation and set-up
- Five years of experience in coating and surface finish (IROX Only)
- CAD Design, AutoCADTM preferred.
- Demonstrated technical design and build experience.
- Proficiency in PM system administration.
- Interpersonal skills.
- Problem solving skills.
- Computer skills.
Physical Requirements
- Stand and walk for extended periods (8–12 hours).
- Frequent bending, kneeling, climbing.
- Lift up to 50 lbs. regularly.
- Work at heights using ladders or lifts.
- Manual dexterity for tools and equipment.
- Exposure to heat, cold, noise, dust, and humidity.
- Wear PPE including steel-toed boots and safety glasses.
Equal opportunity employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities