Manufacturing Engineer

Keystone Distinction Group; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Keystone Distinction Group is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to lead continuous improvement initiatives across a high-precision machining environment in the Rockford area. You will partner with operations to drive efficiency, reduce waste, and deploy Lean-based process improvements on the shop floor.

The role emphasizes hands-on optimization of tooling, equipment, and production systems, with opportunities for professional growth and exposure to state-of-the-art manufacturing

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent.
• 2-4+ years of manufacturing engineering experience in machining or metal manufacturing.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and process optimization.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, tooling, and production systems.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Strong analytical, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; CAD/CAM or CNC programming is beneficial but not the primary focus.

Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives that enhance safety, quality, productivity, and manufacturing performance using Lean principles.
• Analyze production flow, identify bottlenecks, and implement process improvements that increase throughput, reduce waste, and lower costs.
• Support the evaluation, implementation, and optimization of new manufacturing equipment, tooling, and technologies to improve operational efficiency.
• Partner with production to troubleshoot manufacturing challenges, standardize processes, and improve overall equipment performance, including optimization of CNC machining processes where applicable.
• Manage engineering projects from concept through implementation while supporting a safe, organized, and high-performing manufacturing environment.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Process optimization

Analytical skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

CAD/CAM

CNC programming

Job description

Take your engineering career to the next level with a growing manufacturer that continues to invest in state-of-the-art equipment, advanced machining technology, and automation. This is a high-impact role where you'll partner closely with operations to improve manufacturing processes, increase efficiency, and drive continuous improvement across the production floor. You'll have the opportunity to influence how products are made, implement meaningful process improvements, and leave your mark on a world-class manufacturing operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives that enhance safety, quality, productivity, and manufacturing performance using Lean principles.
• Analyze production flow, identify bottlenecks, and implement process improvements that increase throughput, reduce waste, and lower costs.
• Support the evaluation, implementation, and optimization of new manufacturing equipment, tooling, and technologies to improve operational efficiency.
• Partner with production to troubleshoot manufacturing challenges, standardize processes, and improve overall equipment performance, including optimization of CNC machining processes where applicable.
• Manage engineering projects from concept through implementation while supporting a safe, organized, and high-performing manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent technical experience.
• 2-4+ years of manufacturing engineering experience in a machining or metal manufacturing environment.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and process optimization.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, tooling, and production systems.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Strong analytical, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with CAD/CAM or CNC programming is beneficial but not the primary focus.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary range: $80,000 - $100,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Paid time off and company-paid holidays.
• Opportunities for professional growth, training, and career advancement.
• Work with modern manufacturing technology and a team committed to innovation and continuous improvement.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an engineer who enjoys improving manufacturing operations, working with cutting-edge equipment, and making a measurable impact on the shop floor within a leading manufacturer in the Greater Rockford, Illinois area.