Manufacturing Engineer (27774569)

Location Chattanooga, Tennessee About the Position Primary Process Owner focused on identifying waste, improving safety, quality, productivity, and cost through structured lean methodologies. The role partners closely with manufacturing, engineering, quality, OpEx, PMO and safety teams to develop efficient, repeatable, and reliable manufacturing processes. The Manufacturing Engineer also drives DFM and VAVE initiatives, leads capital projects, and develops solutions that enhance operational performance and long‑term competitiveness. Deliverables & Responsibilities Identify and implement safety, quality, productivity, and cost improvement opportunities using lean tools such as 5S, Kaizen, process and value‑stream mapping, and time studies. Lead cross‑functional events to eliminate waste, improve material flow, and optimize workforce utilization, space, and equipment usage. Develop and maintain standard work, process documentation, and visual controls to ensure sustainable process improvements. Drive continuous improvement activities aligned with plant KPIs and operational priorities. Collaborate with design engineering and manufacturing to provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VAVE) improvements. Support new product introductions through process planning and production readiness. Lead capital equipment projects, including scope definition, vendor evaluation, budgeting, and timeline management. Prepare and present business cases with ROI, payback, and risk assessments. Lead project execution from kickoff through installation and operational handoff. Develop equipment concepts, specifications, and vendor RFQs. Lead FAT/SAT, installation, validation, and integration. Work with manufacturing to analyze and plan workforce utilization, space requirements, material routing and handling methods, manufacturing processes and methods, machine and tool design applications, workflow, and new technology, and design layout of equipment and workspace for maximum efficiency, safety, and quality. Estimate production times, capacity requirements, and related costs to provide information for management decisions and to meet completion dates and technical specifications. Apply statistical methods to estimate future manufacturing requirements and potential. Support the transition of new product introductions from engineering to manufacturing, including capacity analysis, process robustness and process validations. Develop and maintain the manufacturing process work instructions and assembly tooling that are initiated by product design or method improvement changes. Specify new equipment and design required fixtures, jigs, and tooling needed to meet production and quality requirements. Prepare and make presentations to individuals and groups using Microsoft Office applications. Follow company policies and procedures at all times. Follow proper safety rules and procedures at all times. Perform special projects and other duties as assigned. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in industrial, manufacturing, mechanical engineering or related field required. Minimum of three (3) years related work experience in a manufacturing environment required with a demonstrated understanding of heavy machinery manufacturing processes. Experience leading automation and robotics projects preferred. Knowledge of LEAN methods used in manufacturing processes required. Knowledge of all types of metal‑cutting processes, to include punch, plasma, and flame cutting preferred. Knowledge of engineering/manufacturing system of symbols, legends, shading and lines required and skill reading engineering drawings required. Knowledge and understanding of nesting software for material optimization preferred. Must be able to collaborate and facilitate cross‑functional teams to influence and manage change in a heavy manufacturing, multi‑shift work environment. Must be able to meet regular attendance requirements. Culture and Values Continuous devotion to meeting the needs of our customers Honesty and integrity in all aspects of business Respect for all individuals Preserving entrepreneurial spirit and innovation Safety, quality and productivity as means to ensure success Travel Requirements 10% of travel, regional, international Work Environment Manufacturing Environment: shop manufacturing environment exposures include exposure to moving mechanical parts, machinery, tools and equipment, vibration, fumes or airborne particles, motorized vehicles, welding and machining operations, outside weather conditions and exposure to the risk of electric shock. The employee may occasionally be exposed to varying levels of dirt, dust, toxic or caustic chemicals, very warm and/or very chilly temperatures. The noise level in the shop can be very loud at times consistent with an industrial assembly facility and may require hearing protection. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Equal Opportunity Employer As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Astec does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender (sex), sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, citizenship status, a person’s veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law or executive order. #J-18808-Ljbffr Page Mechanical Group, Inc.