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 processes-welding, machining, forming, cutting, and assembly-along 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
* Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related discipline required.

Experience
* 3-7+ 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.