Automotive Process Engineer

gpac; Toledo (OH); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

gpac is seeking an experienced Automotive Process Engineer to advance manufacturing process development, continuous improvement, and quality assurance in a high-volume automotive environment in Toledo, Ohio.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years hands-on experience in optimizing production systems, launching new products, and leading cross-functional initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and data-driven methods.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering or related field.
• 1–3 years of process engineering experience in automotive or high-volume manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, FMEA, and root-cause analysis.
• Experience with CAD software such as AutoCAD.
• Ability to analyze process performance metrics and data.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for automotive components and assemblies.
• Conduct time studies and workflow analyses.
• Develop and maintain process documentation including standard work and work instructions.
• Identify and eliminate waste using Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen.
• Troubleshoot production issues and implement corrective actions to enhance safety, quality, and productivity.
• Lead root-cause analyses and collaborate with maintenance and engineering teams.
• Support PPAP submissions and process validations.
• Lead manufacturing readiness for new product launches including tooling and equipment validation.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams across engineering, production, quality, and supply chain.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

FMEA

Root-cause analysis

AutoCAD

Process metrics

Cross-functional leadership

Education

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

Tools

AutoCAD

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Automotive Process Engineer with a strong background in manufacturing process development, continuous improvement, and quality assurance within the automotive industry. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of hands-on experience optimizing production systems, launching new products, and driving operational excellence in fast-paced, high-volume environments.

Key Responsibilities

Process Development & Optimization

• Design, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for automotive components and assemblies.
• Conduct time studies and workflow analyses.
• Develop and maintain process documentation including standard work, work instructions, and process scroll.
• Identify and eliminate waste using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies.

Production Support

• Troubleshoot production issues and implement corrective actions to enhance safety, quality, and productivity.
• Collaborate with Maintenance and Engineering teams to improve equipment uptime and efficiency.
• Lead root-cause analyses (5-Why, Fishbone) for process-related concerns.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure processes meet quality standards such as IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and customer-specific requirements.
• Support PPAP submissions and manage process validations.
• Maintain compliance with safety regulations and internal quality systems.

Project & Launch Support

• Lead manufacturing readiness for new product launches, including tooling, equipment, and process validation.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams across engineering, production, quality, and supply chain.
• Support capital equipment justifications and implementation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• 1-3 years of experience in process engineering within the automotive or high-volume manufacturing sector.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, FMEA, and root-cause analysis tools.
• Experience with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD).
• Proficiency analyzing process performance metrics and statistical data.
• Proven ability to lead process improvements and manage cross-functional initiatives.

Preferred

• Six Sigma Green Belt or higher certification.
• Experience with PLC-controlled systems, robotics, and automation.
• Knowledge of GD&T and automotive OEM standards.
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.