Niche - Niche - Engineering

Technician Position in Bessemer, AL

Seeking a highly motivated and experienced Technician to join our facility in Bessemer, AL. This individual will play a critical role with the ramp up of a new factory. This individual will own process stability through continuous improvement initiatives, equipment optimization, facility layout design, and automation integration. This role serves as the technical backbone for manufacturing excellence, applying lean manufacturing principles and data-driven problem-solving to eliminate waste, reduce cycle times, and enhance operational efficiency. The ideal candidate brings hands-on engineering support capabilities combined with strategic thinking to drive systematic process improvements across the production floor.

Responsibilities:

• Lead continuous improvement (CI) initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to streamline processes, remove waste, and improve overall efficiency
• Implement and maintain 5S workplace organization programs to create clean, organized, and efficient manufacturing environments that support productivity and safety
• Prepare and manage Requests for Quotations (RFQs) and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for new equipment, tooling, and manufacturing systems to support capacity expansion and process optimization
• Order and install equipment and coordinate procurement activities working closely with suppliers to ensure timely delivery and compliance with technical specifications
• Define and optimize factory layout configurations to improve material flow, reduce transportation waste, and maximize space utilization for current and future production needs
• Develop, document, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for manufacturing processes to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance across production lines
• Create and implement Manufacturing System Design tools including process maps, ergonomic analysis, yamazumi and work instructions to support operator training and process standardization
• Conduct time studies, capacity analyses, and bottleneck identification exercises to support data-driven decision making for process improvements
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including production, quality, maintenance, and safety to implement integrated solutions that enhance overall equipment effectiveness

Candidate Qualifications:

• Strong technical background in manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering, or mechanical systems with emphasis on process optimization
• Proven ability to apply Lean Manufacturing principles including value stream mapping, waste elimination, and continuous flow to real-world production environments
• Experience conducting root cause analysis and implementing corrective and preventive actions to address process variability and quality issues
• Experience in creating technical documentation including process flows, layout drawings, equipment specifications, and standard operating procedures
• Project management skills with ability to coordinate multiple improvement initiatives simultaneously while meeting deadlines and budget constraints
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with production teams, equipment vendors, contractors, and management stakeholders
• Data-driven mindset with ability to analyze production metrics, identify improvement opportunities, and measure results of implemented changes
• Demonstrated experience contributing to innovation-focused projects, including development of new products, systems, workflows, or construction methodologies
• Proven ability to generate and implement innovative ideas, improving design efficiency, constructability, automation, or manufacturing integration
• Background working in new project development, pilot programs, or early stage project environments where requirements evolve rapidly
• Comfortable operating in a startup-like or entrepreneurial environment, characterized by fast decision-making, limited precedent, and high ownership
• Strong collaborator with the ability to communicate and work with cross-functional disciplines, including Engineering, Manufacturing, and Innovation
• High attention to detail, balanced with a solution-oriented and forward-thinking mindset
• Self-starter, hands-on and collaborative in achieving results
• Able to distill, package, and present complex information in a clear, concise, and compelling manner
• Process and goal-oriented while comfortable with complexity and ambiguity
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Manufacturing experience, including knowledge of 5S, lean manufacturing, and process flow optimization
• 50lb lifting is required
• Direct involvement in innovation-driven projects
• Experience working in startup, scaleup, or innovation-led environments, including exposure to: Ambiguous or evolving project requirements Rapid iteration and design optimization Cross-functional collaboration beyond traditional engineering roles Experience supporting projects from conceptual design through fabrication and manufacturing Prior involvement in multidisciplinary project teams Excellent spoken and written communication skills

Education:

• High School Education Degree or equivalent

Key Required Competencies and Experience:

• 1-3 years of experience in process engineering, manufacturing engineering, or continuous improvement roles within manufacturing operations
• Hands-on experience implementing Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma projects with documented results in waste reduction, cycle time improvement, or cost savings
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification is highly advantageous
• Proficiency with CAD software (AutoCAD) for layout design and equipment specification is also a big advantage
• Experience managing equipment installation projects
• Knowledge of fabrication processes including welding, cutting, rollforming, and assembly operations in metal manufacturing environments is preferred
• Strong understanding of workplace safety requirements and ability to integrate safety considerations into process design and improvement initiatives
• Be able to operate and assemble components, including the use of screwdrivers, sawers, skilsaws
• Hands-on attitude and willingness to learn new things
• Open-minded and willing to teach others
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

EEO: "Mindlance is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of – Minority/Gender/Disability/Religion/LGBTQI/Age/Veterans."