Manufacturing Engineer (Erie, PA)

At Essentra, we make it work!

As a global leader in plastic injection molded, vinyl dip molded, and metal components, Essentra provides the critical parts that help customers succeed across a wide range of industries. With more than 65 years of manufacturing excellence and operations around the world, we are committed to innovation, continuous improvement, and delivering exceptional value to our customers. Our location in Erie, PA is looking for a hands-on, solutions-driven Manufacturing Engineer who is passionate about improving processes, solving complex challenges, and driving operational excellence. If you thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and enjoy turning ideas into measurable results, this is an opportunity to make a significant impact.

As a Manufacturing Engineer, you will play a key role in improving safety, quality, productivity, and efficiency throughout our manufacturing operations. You will partner closely with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Tooling, and Project Management teams to implement innovative solutions and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Please Note: Job will be based at our Erie, PA manufacturing facility and this is an onsite role. Local candidates only, please.

Essential Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes to improve safety, quality, throughput, and operational efficiency.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, SMED, and data-driven problem-solving methodologies.
• Develop and support tooling, fixtures, equipment, and mechanical components.
• Create and maintain engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Partner with production teams to standardize processes, work instructions, and visual management systems.
• Drive projects focused on reducing changeover times, improving workflow, and maximizing equipment utilization.
• Support new product introductions, tooling projects, equipment installations, and manufacturing process development.
• Research and implement new materials, automation solutions, technologies, and manufacturing best practices.
• Troubleshoot equipment, tooling, and process-related issues using root cause analysis and structured problem-solving techniques.
• Lead capital and engineering projects from concept through implementation while working with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.

Qualifications & Experience

• Seeking at least 5 years of related manufacturing engineering experience. Degree is a plus but not required.
• Manufacturing engineering experience in a production environment is required.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Willingness to work onsite at our Erie, PA location.
• Minimal travel required within the U.S. to another manufacturing plant.
• Experience with manufacturing cell design is key.
• Proficiency with CAD software and Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation.
• Experience with root cause analysis and structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making skills.
• Excellent project management, communication, and collaboration abilities.
• Six Sigma certification or formal Lean Manufacturing training is a plus.
• Minimum of 10 years of engineering-related project management experience.

What Success Looks Like

You are a proactive problem solver who doesn't wait for challenges to find you. You enjoy working cross-functionally, using data to drive decisions, and leading initiatives that create meaningful improvements. You bring a continuous improvement mindset and are energized by finding better ways to operate, produce, and deliver results.

Why Join Essentra?

At Essentra, your ideas matter. You'll have the opportunity to lead meaningful projects, influence manufacturing strategy, and drive improvements that have a direct impact on business performance.

We offer:

• A collaborative and supportive team environment
• Opportunities to lead high-impact engineering projects
• Exposure to advanced manufacturing technologies and automation
• A culture focused on safety, innovation, and continuous improvement
• Career growth and professional development opportunities
• A competitive salary, annual bonus incentive, full benefits package, and generous paid time off.
• The chance to make a visible impact on plant performance and operational excellence

If you're ready to apply your engineering expertise to solve real-world manufacturing challenges and help shape the future of our operations, we encourage you to apply.

Position Type: Full-Time

Essentra is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all.