Manufacturing Engineering Planning

Manufacturing Engineer Opportunity

Great Western Manufacturing, a privately owned and operated company in Leavenworth, Kansas, is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer. Recognized as the oldest operating manufacturing firm in Kansas, Great Western Manufacturing is a premier manufacturer of commercial equipment for dry sifting applications in food processing and custom industrial markets. Our team members enjoy a collaborative, family-oriented environment where hard work is recognized, professional development is encouraged, and opportunities for advancement are available as the company continues to grow.

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and improving manufacturing processes to enhance safety, quality, productivity, and cost efficiency. Working closely with Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, and suppliers, this role drives process improvements, supports continuous improvement initiatives, and ensures products are manufactured using the most effective and economical methods.

Develop, evaluate, and improve manufacturing processes, methods, and production systems.

Analyze workflows, equipment, labor utilization, and material flow to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Lead process improvements that enhance productivity, quality, safety, and operational performance.

Partner with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Maintenance to support new products, resolve production issues, and improve plant performance.

Collaborate with suppliers and Purchasing on manufacturing capabilities, tooling, equipment, and specifications.

Develop production standards, routings, SOPs, work instructions, and other manufacturing documentation.

Estimate manufacturing costs, labor requirements, production capacity, and cycle times to support planning and decision-making.

Investigate manufacturing issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.

Apply Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement principles to drive operational excellence.

Support new product introductions, engineering changes, and production startup activities while ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field preferred.

• 3+ years of manufacturing engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to evaluate technical challenges and implement effective manufacturing solutions.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, including machining, fabrication, welding, assembly, tooling, and production systems.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, continuous improvement, and root cause analysis methodologies.
• Understanding of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles.
• Ability to develop and optimize manufacturing processes, workflows, tooling, and facility layouts.
• Proficiency with CAD software and ERP/MRP systems preferred.
• Strong project management, organizational, and communication skills.
• Commitment to safety, quality, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Required to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when working in production and manufacturing areas.