Manufacturing Engineer Co-Op, Fall 2026

About Watts We’re Watts. Together, we’re reimagining the future of water. We feel proud every day about what we do. We're all part of the same crucial mission, no matter what function we support – it’s to provide safe, clean water for the world, and to protect our planet’s most valuable resource. Position Overview We are looking for a Manufacturing Engineering Co‑op to join our Manufacturing Engineering team in Germantown, Wisconsin (with potential support at Menomonee Falls). The role is full‑time from July to December 2026 and will involve hands‑on work on the production floor, supporting process improvement, equipment optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives. Responsibilities Support the production floor team by troubleshooting manufacturing issues and providing technical expertise on processes. Assist in the development and execution of capital projects to improve processes, such as installing new equipment, modifying existing equipment, or changing the production layout. Participate in continuous improvement projects focused on safety, product quality, waste reduction, efficiency, and cost savings. Use tools such as root cause analysis, fishbone diagrams, and statistical process control to diagnose and solve production issues. Monitor and analyze production data to identify opportunities for process improvement and cost reduction. Implement visual management tools and techniques on the shop floor. Support creation and maintenance of process documentation (SOPs, process flow diagrams, equipment specifications). Provide training and support to shop‑floor team members. Assist with labor standards, product costing, and design of manufacturing processes. Collaborate with Operations, Quality, Engineering and Maintenance to align processes with business objectives. Participate in plant layout optimization and kaizen events. Assume responsibility for additional projects as directed by the Manufacturing Engineering Manager. Required Qualifications Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical, industrial engineering or a related discipline. Experience with office software (spreadsheets, documents, presentations). Strong analytical thinking and ability to evaluate processes critically. Understanding and implementation of Lean fundamentals. Knowledge of applicable laws, codes, policies and safety practices. Must be eligible for employment, successfully complete background checks and pre‑employment testing. Preferred Qualifications Manufacturing engineering internship or co‑op experience. Experience with AutoCAD and SolidWorks. Work and Physical Requirements The role is primarily office based but may require presence on the manufacturing floor. Must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (safety shoes, glasses, hearing protection). Ability to work extended periods at a desk, use a computer, perform data entry, and occasionally lift light items. Equal Employment Opportunity Watts is committed to equal employment opportunity. We administer all employment decisions and personnel actions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic status, marital status, military status, or any other protected category under applicable law. We will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. #J-18808-Ljbffr