Our client is a growing automobile manufacturing organization seeking a motivated, hands-on Plant Engineer to help drive operational excellence, optimize manufacturing processes, and support the successful launch of new products. This is a newly created position due to company growth—not a replacement—making it an excellent opportunity to make a significant impact.
The ideal candidate enjoys working on the production floor, solving complex manufacturing challenges, improving efficiency, and collaborating with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment.
Position Summary
The Plant Engineer will be responsible for improving manufacturing processes, supporting new product launches, conducting process analysis, reducing waste, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives throughout the plant. This individual will work closely with Production, Quality, Maintenance, Engineering, and Operations to maximize productivity, improve quality, and ensure manufacturing processes operate efficiently.
This position requires someone who thrives in a hands-on manufacturing environment and enjoys identifying opportunities for improvement through data analysis, Lean Manufacturing principles, and practical engineering solutions.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives to increase production efficiency and reduce manufacturing costs.
- Analyze existing manufacturing processes and identify opportunities to improve cycle times, throughput, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
- Conduct cycle time studies and implement process improvements to increase productivity.
- Support new product launches, process validation, tooling optimization, and production readiness.
- Troubleshoot manufacturing issues involving equipment, tooling, materials, and production processes.
- Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions.
- Work closely with Production, Maintenance, Quality, and Engineering teams to resolve operational challenges.
- Assist in the design and implementation of efficient workstations and manufacturing layouts.
- Support Lean Manufacturing initiatives including waste reduction, standard work, 5S, Kaizen, and continuous improvement projects.
- Participate in tooling acceptance, production trials, and process validation activities.
- Monitor manufacturing performance through data analysis and recommend process improvements.
- Ensure manufacturing processes comply with quality standards and customer requirements.
- Maintain engineering documentation, work instructions, and process standards.
- Support capital improvement and automation projects as assigned.
QualificationsRequired
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical field (or equivalent experience).
- 3–6 years of engineering experience within a manufacturing or production environment.
- Hands-on engineering approach with a willingness to spend significant time on the production floor.
- Experience optimizing manufacturing processes and improving operational efficiency.
- Experience conducting cycle time studies.
- Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Strong analytical and logical problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Strong communication and project coordination skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
- Experience using ERP systems such as SAP is a plus.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience supporting new product introductions (NPI).
- Knowledge of manufacturing process validation and tooling optimization.
- Experience with root cause analysis methodologies.
- Exposure to automation or capital equipment projects.
- Project management experience.
- Automotive manufacturing experience is helpful but not required.
Skills & Competencies
- Hands-on mentality
- Strong mechanical aptitude
- Production process expertise
- Lean Manufacturing mindset
- Continuous Improvement
- Excellent troubleshooting abilities
- Data-driven decision making
- Strong organizational skills
- Detail-oriented
- Ability to prioritize multiple projects
- Team-oriented with excellent interpersonal skills
- Self-starter with a proactive attitude
What We're Looking For
We're looking for someone who enjoys solving manufacturing problems, improving processes, and making a measurable impact every day. The ideal candidate is comfortable working directly with production teams, isn't afraid to roll up their sleeves, and thrives in an environment focused on continuous improvement.
If you're passionate about engineering, operational excellence, and helping a manufacturing operation become more efficient, we'd love to hear from you.
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
Pay: $85,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
