Lean Manufacturing Engineer — Process Optimization

American Axle & Mfg., Inc.; Bowling Green (OH); On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

American Axle & Mfg., Inc. is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer in Bowling Green, OH to design, implement, and optimize production processes for driveline components. The role emphasizes lean manufacturing, process capability, and collaboration with design teams to ensure manufacturability.

You will conduct time studies, lead maintenance programs, and develop SOPs while driving continuous improvement and safety compliance across the plant. Experience with SolidWorks/AutoCAD is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing engineering role
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing methodologies and continuous improvement tools.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for design and analysis of manufacturing processes and tooling.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes for new and existing products, including assembly, machining, and testing operations.
• Implement and maintain lean manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, SMED) to improve productivity, reduce waste, and enhance overall efficiency.
• Conduct time studies, process capability studies, and root cause analysis to identify and resolve production issues, improve quality, and reduce scrap rates.
• Review, recommend and coordinate TPM, PM, Proactive Maintenance and Predictive Maintenance Programs to prevent equipment failures and maximize machinery uptime.
• Specify, procure, and commission new manufacturing equipment, tooling, and fixtures, ensuring compliance with safety standards and production requirements.
• Collaborate with design engineering to ensure manufacturability of new products and provide input on design for manufacturing principles.
• Develop and update manufacturing documentation, including process flow diagrams, work instructions, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Provide technical support and training to production personnel on new processes, equipment, and quality standards.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to the development of long‑term manufacturing strategies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Manage projects related to process improvements, new product introductions, and cost reduction initiatives.

Skills

CAD proficiency

Lean manufacturing

Time studies

Root cause analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical / Industrial / Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

American Axle & Mfg., Inc. is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer in Bowling Green, OH to design, implement, and optimize production processes for driveline components. The role emphasizes lean manufacturing, process capability, and collaboration with design teams to ensure manufacturability.

You will conduct time studies, lead maintenance programs, and develop SOPs while driving continuous improvement and safety compliance across the plant. Experience with SolidWorks/AutoCAD is required.