Manufacturing Engineer - Continuous Improvement

Job Description
Job Description
Responsibilities
This role is responsible for supporting and advancing continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations. As a key "boots on the ground" contributor, the Manufacturing Engineer - Continuous Improvement works closely with Operations Supervisors, Area Leads, Plant Managers, and cross-functional teams to plan, implement, and sustain improvements that enhance productivity, quality, cost performance, safety, and delivery. This role does not provide direct supervision but plays an essential role in influencing and enabling operational excellence.
Benefits
* Medical, dental, and vision insurance
* 401(k) savings plan with employer match
* Paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave
* Life insurance and employee assistance programs
* Professional development and continuing education support
* Opportunities to participate in cross-functional improvement initiatives
* Supportive environment that promotes innovation, ownership, and growth
Job Roles
* Participates in the implementation of continuous improvement initiatives using Lean principles such as JIT, Autonomation, Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen, 5S, Standard Work, Line/Cell Design, Single Piece Flow, Material Flow, Visual Management, SMED, TPM, and Root Cause Problem Solving.
* Supports scrap reduction initiatives by analyzing processes, identifying waste, and implementing corrective actions.
* Develops step-by-step procedures and standardized systems for loading and unloading high-volume processing equipment.
* Collaborates with engineering, operations, and maintenance teams to fabricate, install, and implement improvements that increase efficiency and reduce waste.
* Creates and updates Value Stream Maps to define current state, identify improvement opportunities, and develop future-state targets with actionable plans.
* Leads shop-floor process reengineering efforts and supports manufacturing teams in driving operational improvements.
* Facilitates kaizen events, problem-solving sessions, and rapid improvement process activities, ensuring follow-through and long-term sustainability.
* Conducts hands-on analysis on the shop floor, evaluating TAKT time, cycle time, workflow constraints, and operational bottlenecks.
* Works collaboratively with employees at all levels to drive engagement, problem-solving, and a continuous improvement culture.
* Performs other duties as assigned to support operational excellence and CI goals.
Key Competencies
* Demonstrated experience in manufacturing improvement techniques, including flow principles, Kanban, and PFEP
* Strong understanding of Toyota Production System principles (JIT, Autonomation)
* Ability to evaluate TAKT vs. cycle time and identify key workflow constraints
* Hands-on shop-floor troubleshooting and process enhancement experience
* Strong interpersonal, communication, and influence skills
* Robust analytical and structured problem-solving capabilities
* Proven project leadership with the ability to manage multiple initiatives
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
* Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from an accredited institution
* Minimum of 2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment (Operations, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, or Operational Excellence)
* Knowledge of Lean and/or Six Sigma continuous improvement methodologies
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with high initiative and energy
* Willingness to spend significant time on the shop floor
* Ability to manage multiple projects and drive change
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
* Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
* Legally authorized to work in the United States (no visa sponsorship available)
Preferred Qualifications
* Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
* Advanced Excel skills, including macros and data analytics
* Three or more years of related manufacturing or continuous improvement experience