Lean Manufacturing Engineer

mestek; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 75,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Mestek is seeking a Lean Manufacturing Engineer to optimize HVAC equipment production. You will analyze workflows, lead Kaizen events, and collaborate with engineering and maintenance to implement lean improvements and better line efficiency.

The role requires a strong background in lean principles, process optimization, and experience with sheet metal fabrication. Excellent communication and project leadership are essential for driving cross-functional initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in industrial, manufacturing, mechanical engineering or related field.
• Minimum 3 years in manufacturing, preferably sheet metal fabrication and assembly.
• Strong knowledge of lean principles and process optimization methods.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; Inventor experience and CNC programming preferred.

Responsibilities

• Analyze workforce utilization, space constraints, and workflow to identify daily optimization opportunities.
• Support production by reviewing work instructions and engineering releases for accuracy.
• Coordinate with plant supervisors on daily production priorities and issues.
• Troubleshoot production challenges and perform root cause analysis.
• Monitor labor and materials data to ensure accurate routing and time standards.
• Update factory layouts and lead weekly Kaizen activities with cross-functional teams.
• Develop staging areas, Kanban systems, and optimized work centers to reduce waste.
• Collaborate with engineering and production planning to support weekly schedules.
• Review CNC needs and assist fabrication teams as required.
• Conduct monthly performance reviews and audit ISO procedures.
• Lead major continuous improvement initiatives and long-term optimization strategies.

Skills

Lean principles

Process optimization

Analytical skills

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial/Manufacturing/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Autodesk Inventor

CNC programming

Job description

Scope of Position:

Reporting directly to the Vice President of Supply Chain and Production, the Lean Manufacturing Engineer is a critical leader in optimizing manufacturing processes, improving efficiency, and driving lean initiatives. In this role, you'll utilize your expertise in product design, materials, tooling, and process development to support innovative solutions in the production of industrial HVAC equipment. Join a company where your contributions will have a measurable impact on operations and success!

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Daily

• 1. Analyze workforce utilization, space constraints, and workflow to identify daily optimization opportunities.
• 2. Support production teams by reviewing work instructions, documentation, and engineering releases to ensure accuracy before reaching the production floor.
• 3. Coordinate with plant supervisors on daily production priorities and process issues.
• 4. Troubleshoot production challenges and perform root cause analysis for defects or inefficiencies.
• 5. Monitor labor and materials data across work centers to ensure accurate routing and time standards.

Weekly

• 1. Update and maintain factory layouts, workflow diagrams, and work center optimization plans based on operational needs.
• 2. Lead and document weekly Kaizen or improvement activities with cross functional teams.
• 3. Develop or improve staging areas, kitting carts, kits, and Kanban systems to reduce waste and increase throughput.
• 4. Collaborate with engineering and production planning to ensure processes support weekly production schedules.
• 5. Review CNC programming needs and assist fabrication teams as required.

Monthly

• 1. Conduct monthly reviews of manufacturing performance metrics (Labor efficiency, throughput, bottleneck analysis).
• 2. Update and audit ISO procedures, work instructions, and process documentation.
• 3. Perform monthly assessments of equipment utilization and collaborate with maintenance on optimization plans.
• 4. Present process- improvement proposals and progress updates to leadership.
• 5. Analyze long-term labor and material usage trends to refine accuracy and resource planning.

Yearly

• 1. Lead Major continuous improvement initiatives aligned with business objectives, including waste reduction, flow optimization, and cost saving projects.
• 2. Develop long-term factory optimization strategies, including layout redesigns and capacity improvements.
• 3. Support annual new-product development initiatives by providing feedback on manufacturability, tooling, and process requirements.
• 4. Research and implement advanced manufacturing technologies, methods, and equipment to improve productivity.
• 5. Participate in long-term capital planning related to manufacturing processes and equipment upgrades.

Performs any other related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Position Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field is required.
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably involving sheet metal fabrication and assembly.
• Technical Expertise: Strong proficiency in manufacturing processes and methodologies, with advanced technical knowledge in lean principles and process optimization.
• Software Proficiency: Competency in Microsoft Office Suite is required. Experience with Autodesk Inventor software and CNC programming (turret punch presses and fiber optic laser) is highly preferred.
• Analytical Skills: Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to assess complex problems, interpret data, and make informed decisions.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Proven track record of solving production challenges and improving operational efficiency.
• Project Management Skills: Ability to manage multiple projects effectively, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Leadership Qualities: Capable of leading cross-functional teams, mentoring others, and driving initiatives independently.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate and convey technical information to diverse teams