Manufacturing and Systems Engineer

Function/Dept:
Engineering

Reports to:

VP of engineering

Supervises:
Supervise and mentor as needed

The Senior Manufacturing Systems Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing and standardizing advanced manufacturing processes with emphasis on automated inspection systems, sheet metal fabrication, quality systems, and tooling/fixture strategy. This role partners directly with Engineering leadership to ensure manufacturability, in‑line quality control, and process robustness are built into product design from concept through production launch. The position drives automation, mistake‑proofing, and fabrication excellence across the plant.

• Design, implement, and validate machine vision inspection systems for in‑line and end‑of‑line verification.
• Lead manufacturability reviews (DFM/DFA) with product engineering.
• Work with Director of Continuous Improvement to develop and optimize sheet metal manufacturing processes including laser cutting, punching, bending, welding, finishing, and sub‑assembly operations.
• Design and validate production tooling, fixtures, poka‑yoke devices, and automated work holding systems.
• Establish and maintain process documentation including PFMEAs, control plans, standard work, and capability studies.
• Participate in structured root cause investigations related to fabrication defects, assembly escapes, and warranty failures.
• Evaluate and justify capital investments including automation, vision systems, fabrication tooling, and inspection equipment.
• Define and implement in‑process quality verification strategies using vision systems, sensors, PLC systems, and SPC tools.
• Coordinate manufacturing launch of new or revised products including process validation and ramp‑up support.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives targeting scrap reduction, first‑pass yield improvement, OEE gains, and warranty reduction.
• Represent the factory in cross‑functional product development teams and serve as primary manufacturing liaison to Engineering leadership.

• Fulfill the financial control and risk management responsibilities inherent in the position.
• Conduct yourself in accordance with the Company code of ethics policy at all times.

• Experience implementing industrial machine vision systems (Cognex, Keyence, Banner, etc.).
• Robotic system integration
• Strong knowledge of automated and manual sheet metal fabrication processes and assembly integration.
• Tooling and fixture design experience (Solid Works or equivalent CAD).
• GD&T proficiency and print interpretation.
• Knowledge of PFMEA, control plans, SPC, Cp/Cpk.
• Lean manufacturing and structured problem‑solving (8D, DMAIC, Six Sigma).
• Experience integrating automation and quality verification into production environments.
• Strong cross‑functional communication skills with Engineering and Operations leadership.

• BS - Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field.
• Lean / Six Sigma certification preferred

• Minimum 5+ years of experience in durable goods manufacturing
• Demonstrated expertise in vision system implementation
• Experience with sheet metal production processes
• Experience in tooling and fixture development
• Knowledge of quality system deployment
• Experience with PLC integration and MES systems
• Experience in robotic system deployment
• Experience in capital equipment justification and implementation

• Hands‑on experience
• Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs
• Must be able to sit and stand for long periods of time
• Must be willing to travel up to 35%