Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing EngineerWe are seeking an entry-level Manufacturing Engineer to support continuous improvement initiatives within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role focuses on enhancing production efficiency, improving Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), reducing downtime, and supporting process optimization efforts across multiple production lines. The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer who enjoys working on the manufacturing floor, analyzing data, solving problems, and collaborating with operations, maintenance, quality, and leadership teams.ResponsibilitiesAnalyze production data, KPIs, and OEE metrics to identify improvement opportunities.Support continuous improvement projects aimed at increasing throughput, reducing waste, and improving equipment reliability.Conduct root cause analysis for production issues and implement corrective actions.Partner with maintenance and operations teams to improve equipment performance and process stability.Assist with line optimization, process standardization, and workflow improvements.Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and process documentation.Monitor production trends and recommend improvements to safety, quality, delivery, and cost.Support lean manufacturing initiatives including 5S and Kaizen events, and waste reduction projects.Participate in capital improvement and equipment installation projects.Work directly on the manufacturing floor to troubleshoot production challenges and implement solutions.Assist in conducting time studies, capacity analysis, and process mapping activities.Essential SkillsManufacturing engineeringProcess improvementContinuous improvementOEE / Manufacturing MetricsRoot Cause Analysis / Process OptimizationSOP DevelopmentLean manufacturingManufacturing processRoot cause failure analysisAdditional Skills & QualificationsOEE analysisRoot Cause Analysis (5 Why, Fishbone, etc.)Lean ManufacturingContinuous ImprovementProcess OptimizationKPI Tracking and ReportingEquipment TroubleshootingSOP DevelopmentData AnalysisManufacturing OperationsRecent engineering graduatesManufacturing engineering internshipsWork EnvironmentThis position operates in a fast-paced, high-volume food manufacturing facility where engineers spend the majority of their time on the production floor rather than behind a desk. The environment offers direct exposure to large-scale food manufacturing operations and provides the opportunity to lead impactful continuous improvement projects early in your career. It features a collaborative environment with strong mentorship from experienced engineering and operations leaders, and a clear pathway for growth into Process Engineering, Continuous Improvement, Operations Leadership, or Project Engineering roles.Job Type & LocationThis is a Permanent position based out of Burlington, NC.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $50000.00 - $65000.00/yr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Medical, dental, and vision insurance options Health Savings Account (HSA) eligible medical plans Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidaysWorkplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Burlington,NC.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Sep 17, 2026.