Industrial Engineer

Waskey Bridges; Baton Rouge (LA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & wellness benefits

Job summary

Waskey Bridges seeks an Industrial Engineer to analyze and improve precast concrete manufacturing processes, aiming to maximize efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness across production workflows.

You will work with Production, Operations, Engineering, Scheduling, Quality Control and Safety teams to reduce waste, optimize labor and equipment utilization, and support production schedules. Reports to the Operations Manager.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline required.
• Experience in industrial engineering, manufacturing process improvement, production operations, or a related field preferred.
• Experience in precast concrete manufacturing, heavy industrial manufacturing, construction materials, or similar production environments preferred.

Responsibilities

• Analyze existing manufacturing processes to identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks.
• Develop and implement process improvements to increase productivity and reduce waste.
• Conduct time studies and labor analyses to establish production standards.
• Evaluate form preparation, reinforcement placement, concrete batching, pouring, curing, finishing, and handling processes.
• Collaborate with multiple departments to implement SOPs and continuous improvement programs.
• Lead or participate in cross-functional improvement initiatives across production and engineering teams.

Skills

Process improvement

Data analysis

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Project management

Communication

Time study

Automation thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial/Manufacturing/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

ERP/MRP systems

Production management software

Job description

• Employee Type FT Non-Exempt
• Manage Others No

Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Industrial Engineer is responsible for analyzing, developing, and improving manufacturing processes, production workflows, and operational systems to maximize efficiency, productivity, quality, and cost-effectiveness within the Company's precast concrete manufacturing operations. This position evaluates production methods, labor utilization, equipment performance, material flow, and facility layouts to identify opportunities for continuous improvement and operational excellence.

The Industrial Engineer works collaboratively with Production, Operations, Engineering, Scheduling, Quality Control and Safety to implement practical solutions that reduce waste, improve resource utilization, minimize downtime, and support production schedules and business objectives. The Industrial Engineer reports to the Operations Manager.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Process Improvement & Operational Efficiency

• Analyze existing manufacturing processes, production workflows, and operational procedures to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Develop and implement process improvements to increase productivity, reduce waste, improve quality, and optimize overall manufacturing performance.
• Conduct time studies, work measurement analyses, and process evaluations to establish production standards and identify opportunities for improved labor and equipment utilization.
• Evaluate production processes, including form preparation, reinforcement placement, concrete batching, pouring, curing, stripping, finishing, and material handling.
• Develop and recommend standardized work procedures and best practices to improve consistency, efficiency, and overall production performance.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to streamline operations and eliminate non-value-added activities.
• Identify root causes of production inefficiencies and recurring operational issues and implement sustainable corrective actions.

Production Planning & Resource Optimization

• Evaluate production capacity, labor requirements, equipment utilization, and material flow to support efficient production planning and scheduling.
• Analyze manpower allocation, crew productivity, and production cycle times to identify opportunities for improved resource utilization.
• Collaborate with Production and Scheduling to improve workflow, reduce production delays, and optimize manufacturing schedules.
• Assess equipment capabilities, production constraints, and facility capacity to support operational planning and future growth.
• Develop and recommend improvements to production layouts, workstations, material staging areas, and equipment placement to maximize efficiency and minimize unnecessary movement.
• Assist in evaluating staffing levels, labor standards, and production methods to support operational and financial objectives.

Data Analysis & Performance Measurement

• Collect, analyze, and interpret production data to evaluate operational performance and identify trends.
• Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) related to productivity, labor efficiency, production cycle times, equipment utilization, downtime, material waste, and manufacturing costs.
• Prepare reports, dashboards, and performance analyses to communicate findings and improvement opportunities to management.
• Establish measurable performance benchmarks and monitor the effectiveness of implemented process improvements.
• Analyze production variances and recommend corrective actions to improve performance and cost control.
• Utilize data-driven methods to support operational decisions, capital investments, and long-term business planning.

Manufacturing Systems & Continuous Improvement

• Evaluate and improve manufacturing systems, equipment utilization, and material handling processes to support safe and efficient operations.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Production teams to improve manufacturing methods, formwork processes, and production sequencing.
• Identify opportunities for automation, equipment upgrades, and technology improvements that enhance productivity and operational reliability.
• Assist with the evaluation, implementation, and optimization of manufacturing software, production tracking systems, and other operational technologies.
• Support the development and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and process documentation.
• Lead or participate in continuous improvement initiatives involving multiple departments to improve overall operational performance.
• Evaluate proposed process changes for feasibility, cost-effectiveness, safety, and impact on production.

Cost Analysis & Project Management

• Analyze manufacturing costs, including labor, materials, equipment utilization, and production inefficiencies, to identify cost-reduction opportunities.
• Conduct cost-benefit analyses and return-on-investment evaluations for proposed process improvements, equipment purchases, and capital projects.
• Develop project plans, timelines, budgets, and performance objectives for assigned improvement initiatives.
• Coordinate improvement projects with internal departments, vendors, and contractors to ensure successful implementation.
• Monitor project progress, measure results, and communicate updates and recommendations to management.
• Support budgeting and operational planning through analysis of production costs, capacity, and resource requirements.

Quality, Safety & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Quality Control to identify and address process-related defects, rework, and production inconsistencies.
• Evaluate manufacturing processes to ensure improvements support established quality standards and customer requirements.
• Collaborate with Safety to identify operational hazards and incorporate safe work practices, ergonomic principles, and risk reduction into process improvements.
• Work closely with Production supervisors and employees to understand operational challenges and develop practical, sustainable solutions.
• Provide guidance and training to employees and supervisors on improved processes, standardized work methods, and operational best practices.
• Communicate findings, recommendations, and improvement initiatives clearly to management and affected departments.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the Company’s operational needs.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Valid driver’s license with clear driving record
• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline required.
• Previous experience in industrial engineering, manufacturing process improvement, production operations, or a related field preferred.
• Experience in precast concrete manufacturing, heavy industrial manufacturing, construction materials, or similar production environments preferred.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, production planning, workflow optimization, and resource utilization.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, continuous improvement methodologies, and root cause analysis.
• Experience conducting time studies, process mapping, capacity analyses, and labor productivity evaluations.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to interpret production data, develop performance metrics, and make data-driven recommendations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, and familiarity with data analysis and reporting tools.
• Experience with AutoCAD, ERP/MRP systems, production management software, or other manufacturing technologies preferred.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and improvement initiatives.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and organizational levels.
• Strong organizational, leadership, problem-solving, attention to detail and decision-making skills.
• Excellent planning, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and develop practical solutions in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively across departments.
• Working knowledge of applicable industrial safety standards and manufacturing quality requirements
• Must be self‑motivated & able to work independently or with a team; willingness to be flexible as needed.

FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS

This position requires frequent (40-69%) standing, walking, bending, stooping, reaching, climbing, balancing, and navigating active manufacturing facilities and outdoor production yards. Occasional (0-39%) sitting, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, handling, feeling, use of hands/fingers, hearing (listening), observing (vision), hand-eye coordination, twisting, pushing, pulling, and lifting up to 50lbs may be required. Duties involve inspecting facilities, machinery, equipment, and infrastructure; supervising maintenance activities; and coordinating repairs and improvement projects. Must possess the ability to safely navigate ladders, elevated platforms, uneven or unimproved surfaces, muddy conditions, loose rock, and other industrial environments. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Adequate hearing, hand-eye coordination, and manual dexterity are required to inspect equipment, identify hazards, and perform job‑related tasks.

This position is subject to industrial hazards, including but not limited to moving machinery, overhead cranes, mobile equipment, hazardous energy sources (LOTO), elevated work areas, electrical and mechanical systems, and high noise levels. May require the use of hand and power tools and occasional entry into confined spaces in accordance with applicable safety procedures. Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments with exposure to dust, noise, vibration, and adverse weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain. Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and comply with all Company safety policies and procedures. Must be able to walk on uneven surfaces, muddy conditions, loose rock, loose/soft sand, etc. Will be exposed to adverse weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.). Candidate must be able to be medically qualified by a NON-DOT or other job specific physical.

May be required to respond to facility or equipment emergencies outside normal working hours. Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation and meet any applicable job‑related medical qualification requirements.

BENEFITS

All full‑time employees who work a minimum average of 30 hours per week are eligible for health & wellness and ancillary benefits.

Waskey Bridges, Inc. and its affiliated companies are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, veteran status, genetic information or any other legally protected class.