Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer

Summary:

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for designing, optimizing, and implementing manufacturing processes and systems in support of production. This role involves developing and improving production methods, workflows, and equipment to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure product quality. The Manufacturing Engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams, including production, quality, and maintenance, to resolve manufacturing issues, improve product designs for manufacturability, and ensure that processes are scalable, safe, and compliant with industry standards.

Responsibilities and Duties:

· Design, analyze, and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce cycle times, and ensure product quality. Identify and implement improvements to production workflows, tooling, and equipment to increase productivity.

· Collaborate with design and engineering teams to specify and design tooling, fixtures, and jigs needed for production. Work with suppliers to select or customize equipment that meets the company’s requirements.

· Provide technical support to the production team for manufacturing-related issues. Troubleshoot problems in the production process and collaborate with cross-functional teams (maintenance, quality, etc.) to develop solutions.

· Create and maintain process documentation, including work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and process flow charts. Ensure that all process changes are documented and communicated effectively.

· Work with the quality team to ensure that manufacturing processes comply with industry standards (e.g., AS9100, ISO 9001) and customer requirements. Develop and implement processes to minimize defects, rework, and scrap.

· Work with the design engineering team to ensure that products are designed for manufacturability. Provide feedback on product designs and suggest improvements for ease of assembly, cost reduction, and manufacturability.

· Identify opportunities for cost reduction through process improvements, waste reduction, and better utilization of resources. Implement Lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies to streamline processes and enhance productivity.

· Train production staff on new manufacturing processes, tools, and equipment. Support the development of training materials and ensure that employees are properly trained to meet production and safety standards.

· Collect and analyze data on production efficiency, quality, and equipment performance.

· Lead or support engineering projects aimed at improving manufacturing processes, equipment, or facilities. Ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to specifications.

· Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

· Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, including machining, assembly, welding, and testing, with an emphasis on aerospace applications.

· Experience with process design, process flow analysis, and lean manufacturing techniques such as Kaizen, 6S, and Value Stream Mapping.

· Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, MasterCAM) for designing tooling and fixtures.

· Familiarity with manufacturing planning software or Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.

· Strong analytical skills, with the ability to collect and interpret data to identify process improvements.

· Excellent communication skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams, customers, and suppliers.

· Problem-solving ability and the ability to think critically in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Education and Experience:

· Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.

· Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with a focus on process design and improvement, ideally in an aerospace or high-precision manufacturing environment.

· Knowledge of industry standards and certifications, such as AS9100 or ISO 9001, is a plus.

· Experience with Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, or continuous improvement methodologies is highly preferred.

· Experience with machining, CNC programming, and metalworking processes is advantageous.

· Experience with sheet metal fabrication is a plus.

Physical Demands:

- Ability to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods while observing production processes or working with equipment.

- Ability to lift and carry materials or components weighing up to 30 pounds.

- Ability to bend, stoop, or kneel to inspect equipment, tools, and products during manufacturing processes.

- Comfort working in a manufacturing environment with varying noise levels, temperature, and lighting conditions.

- Ability to use hand tools, measuring instruments, and other manufacturing equipment to make process adjustments.

- Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights when working with equipment or conducting inspections.

- Reasonable accommodation may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment:

The work environment provided shall be free of physical hazard with employee adherence to area specific operating procedures and work instructions including all PPE requirements in accordance with applicable state and federal law or regulation. The work environment provided shall be free of hostile or harassing behaviors in accordance with applicable state and federal law or regulation. Willful disruption or refusal to observe these stated work environment conditions shall be subject to disciplinary action.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- 401(k) matching

- Dental insurance

- Employee assistance program

- Flexible spending account

- Health insurance

- Health savings account

- Life insurance

- Paid time off

- Tuition reimbursement

- Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

- Grand Rapids, MI 49505 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

- Grand Rapids, MI 49505: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person