Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer

Reports To: Manufacturing Engineering/Continuous Improvement Director

Position Summary
The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for optimizing production processes supporting daily manufacturing operations and driving continuous improvement across the metal fabrication environment. This role blends handson engineering expertise with Lean and CI methodologies to improve safety quality productivity equipment reliability and cost performance.
The ideal candidate brings experience in fabrication processeswelding machining forming cutting and assemblyalong with the ability to lead cross-functional improvement initiatives that deliver measurable results.

Key Responsibilities

Process Improvement & Operational Excellence
Lead Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives targeting safety quality throughput and cost reduction.
Conduct Kaizen events value stream mapping root cause analysis and other structured improvement activities.
Identify workflow bottlenecks and implement sustainable process enhancements.
Develop track and report KPIs including efficiency scrap downtime OEE labor utilization and on-time delivery.
Standardize production processes and establish best practices across operations.
Support 5S visual management and plant-wide operational discipline.

Manufacturing Engineering Support
Provide engineering support for fabrication welding machining assembly and material handling operations.
Design improve and validate tooling fixtures jigs and production aids.
Analyze manufacturing methods and recommend process changes to enhance efficiency and quality.
Partner with maintenance and operations to improve equipment reliability and uptime.
Support capital projects including equipment specification installation commissioning and capability validation.
Troubleshoot manufacturing and mechanical process issues.

Quality & Safety
Support corrective and preventive action activities addressing manufacturing defects and process failures.
Participate in root cause investigations and corrective action implementation.
Ensure compliance with OSHA standards safety policies and company procedures.
Promote a culture of quality safety and continuous improvement throughout the facility.

Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with production supervisors quality maintenance supply chain and leadership teams.
Train and coach employees on Lean tools standard work and improvement methodologies.
Support new product introductions and provide manufacturability input during design reviews.
Communicate project updates performance improvements and operational impacts to leadership.

Qualifications

Education
Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering Manufacturing Engineering or related discipline required.

Experience
37 years of engineering experience in manufacturing or metal fabrication.
Proven success executing Continuous Improvement or Lean Manufacturing initiatives.
Hands-on experience with fabrication processes such as welding machining forming laser/plasma cutting or assembly.

Technical Skills
Strong understanding of Lean Six Sigma and root cause analysis tools.
Experience in process optimization production flow analysis and manufacturing systems.
Proficiency with CAD and engineering drawings.
Knowledge of industrial equipment tooling and fabrication processes.
Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and production performance metrics.

Preferred Certifications
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt preferred.
Project Management experience is beneficial.

Key Competencies
Analytical and data-driven problem-solving skills.
Hands-on engineering mindset with strong practical manufacturing experience.
Effective leadership communication and collaboration abilities.
Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Physical & Work Environment
Work involves both office and manufacturing floor environments.
Ability to walk production areas and occasionally lift up to 48 pounds.
PPE required in designated production areas.

Why Join Us
Opportunity to directly influence plant performance and operational effectiveness.
Collaborative environment focused on innovation and improvement.
High-impact role with visibility across production and leadership teams.
Competitive compensation benefits and opportunities for growth.