Manufacturing Engineer II

Manufacturing Engineer II

Location: Lake Geneva, WI Company: R&L Spring Company

Job Summary:

The Manufacturing Engineer II is responsible for the development, implementation, improvement, and optimization of safe, capable, efficient, and cost-effective manufacturing processes. This position independently leads complex engineering and process improvement activities and works closely with Engineering, Production, Quality, Maintenance, R&D, and other functions to improve manufacturing performance, resolve complex technical issues, support new product introduction, and establish sustainable processes and standards.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Develop, optimize, and document manufacturing processes to support safety, quality, delivery, productivity, capacity, and cost objectives.
• Independently analyze manufacturing processes, production data, and performance metrics to identify opportunities for improvement and process optimization.
• Lead investigations of complex equipment, tooling, process, and product-quality issues using structured problem-solving and root-cause analysis.
• Develop and implement process improvements, standard work, work instructions, process flows, control methods, and other manufacturing documentation.
• Design, develop, modify, and implement tooling, fixtures, gauges, production aids, layouts, and other manufacturing solutions.
• Create and revise 3D models, assemblies, layouts, and engineering drawings using SolidWorks or similar CAD software.
• Evaluate engineering drawings, specifications, tolerances, and requirements and provide recommendations related to manufacturability, process capability, and production methods.
• Lead prototypes, production trials, new product introductions, process changes, equipment installations, and process qualification activities.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and process optimization principles to reduce waste, improve capability, increase throughput, and optimize manufacturing efficiency.
• Lead cross-functional engineering and continuous improvement projects, coordinating activities and priorities with Engineering, Production, Quality, Maintenance, R&D, and other stakeholders.
• Develop project plans, establish priorities, monitor progress, and communicate project status, risks, and results to appropriate stakeholders.
• Measure, analyze, and communicate the results of process improvements and provide recommendations based on technical and operational data.
• Support capacity planning, production flow, labor utilization, equipment utilization, and manufacturing cost improvement initiatives.
• Identify opportunities for automation, equipment improvements, process standardization, and other technologies that improve manufacturing performance.
• Provide technical guidance and support to Manufacturing Engineering Technicians and Manufacturing Engineer I employees.
• Serve as a technical resource to Production, Quality, Maintenance, and other departments on manufacturing processes and engineering-related issues.
• Maintain accurate engineering records and documentation and ensure compliance with applicable quality-system, safety, environmental, and document-control requirements.
• Participate in the development and implementation of engineering standards, manufacturing methods, and best practices.
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong mechanical aptitude and advanced practical understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment, and production systems.
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, tolerances, and GD&T requirements.
• Strong working knowledge of manufacturing processes, tooling, machining, fabrication, assembly, measurement systems, and/or automated manufacturing equipment.
• Proficient in SolidWorks or similar CAD software to create and modify parts, assemblies, layouts, and engineering drawings.
• Ability to collect, analyze, interpret, and present technical information using Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft 365 applications.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, problem-solving, and project-management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to apply structured problem-solving and root-cause analysis methods to complex manufacturing issues.
• Strong understanding and application of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.
• Ability to independently manage multiple projects, establish priorities, meet deadlines, and follow through implementation activities.
• Ability to make sound technical recommendations based on engineering principles, data, and practical manufacturing considerations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to effectively communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence others without direct authority.
• Ability to work independently with limited direction and appropriately escalate complex, high-risk, or unfamiliar issues.
• Willingness to spend significant time on the manufacturing floor learning processes, equipment, and products and working directly with production personnel.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree preferred/required in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Technology, or a related engineering or technical field.
• Minimum of 4 years of relevant manufacturing engineering, manufacturing, tooling, machining, quality, maintenance, or production experience.
• Demonstrated experience independently leading manufacturing engineering or continuous improvement projects.
• Experience using SolidWorks or similar CAD software in a professional manufacturing environment.
• Experience with process development, process improvement, tooling, equipment, production trials, or new product introduction.
• Experience in wire forming, spring manufacturing, medical device manufacturing, or another precision or regulated manufacturing environment preferred.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, root-cause analysis, process capability, measurement systems, equipment validation, process qualification, or similar manufacturing engineering methodologies preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Required to stand, walk, and use hands regularly.
• Occasionally required to stoop, kneel, and crouch.
• Frequently lift and/or move up to 30 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in both office and manufacturing-floor environments, including observing operating equipment and interacting with production personnel.
• Ability to safely use required personal protective equipment (PPE) and comply with posted safety requirements.

Why R&L Spring?

At R&L Spring, we believe in fostering a family-like, collaborative culture where employees are empowered to grow and succeed. Join us to build a rewarding career in manufacturing while making a real impact on our processes and products.

Ready to engineer your future? Apply today!

Equal Opportunity Employer, including Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.