Lead Manufacturing Engineer

The Lead Manufacturing Engineer will support the Continuous Improvement/Manufacturing Engineering department through the creation, and maintenance of engineering systems. The Lead Engineer is expected to apply concepts and practices focused on Lean/Six Sigma to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the Automotive Group’s manufacturing operations.

• Support the Plant Manager and Continuous Improvement (CI) team with daily tasks.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing principles to production floor and inventory areas to guarantee the reduction of waste reduction.
• Be able to lead and develop ME interns through strong leadership and training and direct their talent towards specific areas through kaizen activity.
• Perform statistical analysis to understand machine capabilities and production trends to predict successful production outcomes.
• Develop manufacturing processes, including automation, to reduce production cost and improve overall equipment efficiency.
• Lead Kaizen projects with cross-functional teams on high impact business projects.
• Launch activities, including pre-launch documentation, preparing, and conducting trial activity, post-trial activity including PFS updates and follow-up.
• Maintain pre-launch component/resin/finished goods inventory.
• Prepare and keep track of pre-launch orders.
• Create and update Master Schedule based on Toyota milestones and Plant projects.
• Conduct meetings with management for status project reviews.
• Perform training on Lean Manufacturing with ME and Intern staff.
• Other duties may be assigned.
• Strong analytical, planning skills and critical thinking required.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to effectively manage a variety of projects and tasks.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to effectively organize and prioritize work.
• Strong understanding of Lean manufacturing concepts
• Strong problem solving and leadership skills.
• Knowledge of facility and layout design.
• Knowledge of Toyota Production System.
• Basic understanding of injection molding and auxiliary equipment.
• Strong statistical and analytical skills.

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial, Manufacturing, or Mechanical Engineering from a 4 year accredited university.

Minimum of 5 to 8 years related experience related to the field through job experience, class projects and internships.

Six Sigma Black Belt certification preferred, Lean Manufacturing training required.

• Strong analytical, planning skills and critical thinking ability required with orientation for continuous improvement.
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to prepare reports and business correspondence.

• Ability to read, write and speak English
• Highly effective, articulate communication skills (verbal & written) with strong interpersonal effectiveness and the ability to work with all levels in the organization and across cultures.

• Problem solver with a positive attitude and ability to make appropriate decisions.
• Knowledge of automation for process improvement.
• Flexibility in dealing with a variety of multiple projects and demands, business partners, and situations while remaining calm under pressure.
• Ability to work extended hours across multiple shifts including some weekends and holidays when necessary.
• Strong professional presence and high ethical standards of conduct; ability to handle confidential information with great sensitivity.
• 3D printing knowledge, preferred.

• 60% of the time will be spent doing desk related work on a computer and working with basic office equipment (PC, fax and printer, phones) while the remaining 40% will be spent on the production floor completing work related to the position.
• Must be able to lift 25 pounds individually and team lift 50 pounds.
• Able to work in an environment that is climate controlled but is exposed to potential heat, rain, and cold.
• Must be able to perform this job safely in accordance with standard operating procedures without endangering the health or safety of self or others.
• Must wear all personal protective equipment where required.