Job Title: Manufacturing Engineer (Mechanical Focus)
Job Summary:
We are seeking a Mid-Level Manufacturing Engineer with a Mechanical Focus to join our engineering team. In this role, you will play a critical part in supporting manufacturing operations by optimizing processes, improving product quality, and ensuring the effective operation of production systems. You will have the opportunity to work on complex manufacturing challenges, implement process improvements, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance production efficiency. This position requires hands-on experience, technical expertise, and the ability to lead initiatives aimed at improving production workflows and reducing operational costs.
Key Responsibilities:
Process Optimization:
- Lead the analysis, design, and implementation of manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and increase throughput.
- Continuously monitor production performance and make recommendations for process adjustments to optimize manufacturing workflows.
- Identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement in production processes, and implement solutions to improve productivity and reduce costs.
Product Design and Manufacturability:
- Work closely with the product design team to ensure that designs are manufacturable and meet quality, cost, and time-to-market goals.
- Conduct Design for Manufacturability (DFM) reviews to identify potential issues early in the product lifecycle and recommend design modifications for improved manufacturability.
- Ensure the integration of engineering and manufacturing requirements into product designs, ensuring that manufacturing processes are aligned with product specifications.
Quality Control and Process Documentation:
- Develop, implement, and maintain quality control processes to ensure product quality meets or exceeds customer requirements and specifications.
- Monitor and analyze product quality data and implement corrective actions for any identified discrepancies.
- Prepare and update manufacturing process documentation, including work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and process flow diagrams.
Machine and Equipment Optimization:
- Collaborate with the maintenance team to ensure that production equipment operates at maximum efficiency.
- Lead efforts to select, install, and optimize machinery and equipment for new manufacturing processes.
- Troubleshoot mechanical issues in production machinery and assist in resolving equipment-related production delays.
Collaboration and Cross-Functional Coordination:
- Work with production, quality assurance, and engineering teams to align manufacturing processes with production schedules and quality standards.
- Provide technical support and guidance to production teams in implementing process changes or addressing operational challenges.
- Facilitate communication between design, engineering, production, and maintenance teams to ensure alignment on product development and manufacturing goals.
Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement:
- Drive the implementation of Lean Manufacturing principles, including value stream mapping, 5S, Kaizen, and other continuous improvement initiatives.
- Lead projects aimed at reducing waste, improving efficiency, and enhancing the overall production process.
- Identify and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) related to production efficiency, product quality, and downtime, using this data to implement improvements.
Project Management and Leadership:
- Manage engineering projects from concept to implementation, ensuring that project goals, timelines, and budgets are met.
- Lead and mentor junior engineers and manufacturing staff to foster a collaborative work environment and ensure the successful execution of projects.
- Coordinate project timelines and deliverables with key stakeholders to ensure alignment with company objectives.
Key Focus Areas:
Manufacturing Process Optimization:
- Take the lead in improving manufacturing processes, increasing efficiency, and reducing waste to drive cost savings.
Product Design and Manufacturability:
- Ensure seamless collaboration between product design and manufacturing teams to enhance product quality and manufacturability.
Quality Control and Documentation:
- Maintain high standards of quality in production processes, ensuring products meet all customer specifications and industry standards.
Machine and Equipment Management:
- Oversee the optimization and troubleshooting of production machinery and equipment to maximize uptime and reduce maintenance costs.
Continuous Improvement and Lean Manufacturing:
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimize operational efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality.
Qualifications and Skills:
Educational Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
- 2-4 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process optimization, or a related field with hands-on experience in mechanical manufacturing environments.
Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or equivalent) and manufacturing process design.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and techniques, including 5S, Kaizen, and Value Stream Mapping.
- Experience with quality control systems, statistical process control (SPC), and failure analysis techniques.
- Familiarity with machinery, equipment setup, and troubleshooting in a production environment.
Soft Skills:
- Strong problem-solving abilities with a focus on root cause analysis and continuous improvement.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.
- Strong project management skills with the ability to handle multiple projects and prioritize tasks.
- Ability to mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership within the team.
Certifications (Preferred):
- Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
- Lean Manufacturing or related certifications.
- Familiarity with safety standards (e.g., OSHA) and environmental regulations.