Lean Manufacturing Engineer

Vaco is hiring for an Industrial Engineer opportunity in Ripley TN. Direct Hire, Onsite. Salary: $70,000 – $130,000 per year. GENERAL SUMMARY Responsible for driving organizational change and continuous improvement across manufacturing and distribution operations. This role supports plant leadership in producing and distributing higher‑quality products with shorter lead times and reduced costs, while improving safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. The Engineer develops and implements optimal manufacturing and shipping methods to position the company as a low‑cost, high‑performance producer in the marketplace. ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost reduction, quality improvement, safety, and delivery performance across manufacturing and distribution operations. Investigate, collect, and analyze plant data to identify process inefficiencies and recommend improvements. Monitor plant processes, layouts, and workflows to identify opportunities for optimization in equipment, labor utilization, and material flow. Develop cost estimates, equipment justifications, and formal project reports for management review and approval. Support and track engineering and continuous improvement projects from feasibility through implementation to ensure successful completion. Assist in the design, development, and implementation of manufacturing processes that meet corporate objectives in safety, quality, cost, and delivery. Partner with vendors to obtain specifications, pricing, and technical requirements for new equipment and services. Apply lean manufacturing principles to improve production efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance operational performance. Provide technical support to manufacturing and distribution teams regarding processes, equipment, and operational improvements. Ensure plant assets, materials, and processes are effectively utilized and continuously improved. Stay current with advancements in manufacturing technologies, engineering methods, and industry best practices. Participate in cross‑functional teams to support improvement projects across departments and plant locations. Support training and development of associate engineers and contribute to knowledge sharing within the engineering team. Assist in capital budgeting, compliance requirements, and project documentation for audits and operational readiness. Communicate project updates, technical findings, and recommendations to plant leadership and engineering management. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (required) Experience 0–7+ years of engineering experience in manufacturing or distribution environments Experience supporting process improvement, project execution, or engineering initiatives KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES Strong understanding of engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and plant operations Proficiency with analytical tools, computer applications, and data‑driven decision‑making Experience with lean manufacturing, process improvement, and cost reduction methodologies Strong project coordination and organizational skills with ability to work independently or with limited supervision Effective communication skills, both verbal and written Ability to collaborate with cross‑functional teams and support engineering initiatives Willingness to learn and apply new manufacturing technologies and methods Ability to work in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment Key Responsibilities Monitor manufacturing processes, workflows, and plant layouts to identify continuous improvement, quality enhancement, cost reduction, and efficiency opportunities. Investigate, collect, and analyze operational and production data to support process optimization and performance improvements. Develop cost estimates, business cases, equipment justifications, and project reports for leadership approval and capital investment decisions. Lead projects from feasibility, planning, and justification through implementation, ensuring timelines, objectives, and outcomes are achieved. Design, develop, and implement manufacturing processes aligned with safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives. Partner with vendors to obtain specifications, evaluate equipment and services, and support procurement decisions. Drive lean manufacturing and productivity initiatives to improve equipment performance, production efficiency, and operational output. Lead or support cross‑functional teams and collaborate closely with engineering, plant leadership, and shop floor personnel across multiple locations. Mentor and train associate and mid‑level engineers, supporting technical development and succession planning. Communicate engineering solutions, process improvements, and new technologies effectively to plant personnel and leadership. Support safe process and equipment design while maintaining high visibility with plant and executive leadership in a fast‑paced environment. Travel up to 10–20% as required. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Engineering required with 0–7+ years of engineering experience in manufacturing or industrial environments. Strong project management, analytical, process improvement, and communication skills required, along with proficiency in engineering systems, plant operations, and mentoring junior engineers. The Engineer will receive medical, dental, and vision benefits as well as participation in the company's 401(k) retirement plan. Values & Diversity Vaco by Highspring values a diverse workplace and strongly encourages women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign‑born residents, and veterans to apply. EEO Notice Vaco by Highspring is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race (including but not limited to traits historically associated with race such as hair texture and hair style), color, sex (includes pregnancy or related conditions), religion or creed, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, status as a veteran, union membership, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, political affiliation, or any other protected characteristics as required by federal, state or local law. Vaco by Highspring and its parents, affiliates, and subsidiaries are committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, Vaco by Highspring and its parents, affiliates, and subsidiaries will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr