MANUFACTURING ENGINEER I

Job Description Summary
This position will be responsible for optimizing production processes, improving operational efficiency, reducing manufacturing costs, and ensuring consistent product quality. Will work closely with production, quality, maintenance, and operations teams to identify bottlenecks, resolve manufacturing issues, and implement sustainable process improvements. The ideal candidate is hands-on, analytical, and focused on driving measurable improvements in productivity, equipment utilization, labor efficiency, and overall manufacturing performance.

Duties and Responsibilities

Analyze existing production processes, workflows, and equipment utilization to identify opportunities for improvement.
Identify and eliminate production bottlenecks to improve throughput, cycle times, and on-time delivery.
Develop and implement standardized work methods to improve consistency, efficiency, and productivity.
Evaluate labor utilization, production capacity, and line balancing to maximize operational performance.
Work directly with production personnel to troubleshoot daily manufacturing issues and minimize downtime.
Monitor production performance and develop action plans to address inefficiencies.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing waste, scrap, rework, downtime, and manufacturing costs.
Apply Lean Manufacturing principles, including 5S, Kaizen, standard work, and waste elimination.
Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions to address recurring production problems.
Evaluate manufacturing methods, tooling, fixtures, equipment, and material flow to improve process performance.
Develop and implement solutions that improve productivity without compromising quality or safety.
Measure the effectiveness of improvements and establish controls to sustain results.
Collect and analyze production data, including cycle times, downtime, scrap rates, labor hours, and throughput.
Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) and develop reports and visual metrics to communicate improvement opportunities and results.
Use data-driven analysis to prioritize improvement projects and quantify cost savings.
Support production planning and capacity analysis to improve resource utilization.
Partner with production supervisors and operators to identify improvement opportunities and implement practical solutions.
Collaborate with Quality to reduce defects, improve process capability, and resolve recurring quality issues.
Work with Maintenance to improve equipment reliability, reduce unplanned downtime, and support preventive maintenance initiatives.
Coordinate with management to establish improvement goals, project priorities, and implementation plans.
Train production employees in new processes, standard work, and continuous improvement methods.
Develop and maintain standard operating procedures, work instructions, process documentation, and manufacturing standards.
Conduct time studies and process evaluations to establish efficient production methods.
Support the implementation of process controls to ensure improvements are maintained over time.
Evaluate new manufacturing methods, equipment, and technologies to improve operational efficiency.
Follow ISO/IATF, safety, and environmental procedures as well as department and corporate policies and procedures.

Job Knowledge; Skills and Abilities

Experience in a manufacturing or production environment, preferably in process improvement or manufacturing engineering.
Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and waste reduction principles.
Experience with root cause analysis, problem-solving methodologies, and corrective action implementation.
Ability to analyze production data, conduct time studies, and identify process inefficiencies.
Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other production reporting or data analysis tools.
Experience with ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing performance metrics preferred.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with operators, supervisors, and management.
Hands-on approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple improvement projects.

Education and Training

Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field; equivalent practical experience may be considered.
Knowledge of ISO/IATF standards preferred.

Key Performance Indicators

Increased production throughput and labor productivity.
Reduced cycle times and production bottlenecks.
Reduced scrap, rework, and material waste.
Reduced unplanned downtime and improved equipment utilization.
Improved on-time delivery and production schedule attainment.
Reduced manufacturing cost per unit.
Successful completion of continuous improvement projects and verified cost savings.
Sustained compliance with safety and quality standards.

Tools and Equipment

Steel-toed shoes, safety glasses and earplugs are always required on the production floor.

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The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.