Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Movement Search & Delivery; Newton (NC); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Movement Search & Delivery is seeking a hands-on Engineering leader with 8+ years in Tier 1 automotive manufacturing to guide a high-performance team in a fast-paced, just-in-time environment. You will own process development, automation, and equipment strategies, drive continuous improvement, and ensure APQP deliverables, PFMEA, control plans, and reliable launches.

The role requires strong leadership, a commitment to safety, and collaboration with product, quality, and operations to deliver

Qualifications

• 8+ years in Tier 1 automotive manufacturing.
• Experience leading Manufacturing Engineers and technical staff.
• Proficiency with APQP, PFMEA, and control plans; Lean Six Sigma preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop Manufacturing Engineers and staff.
• Drive process development, optimization, and standardization.
• Lead manufacturing engineering activities for launches and changes.
• Specify and implement equipment and automation systems.
• Support audits, quality improvements, and cost reduction initiatives.
• Collaborate with product, quality, and operations teams.

Skills

Team Leadership

Lean Six Sigma

APQP/PPAP

PFMEA

Automation & Robotics

CAD

Simulation Tools

Data Analysis

Manufacturing Eng.

Education

Bachelors in Mechanical Eng

Tools

CAD

Manufacturing Simulation

Job description

Our client is a leading global Automotive Supplier.

About the role

The ideal candidate is a hands-on Engineering leader with 8+ years of experience in Tier 1 automotive manufacturing, including proven success leading teams in high-volume, just-in-time environments. They bring deep expertise in process development, automation, and assembly or fabrication operations, along with a strong track record of driving continuous improvement, successful program launches, and operational excellence. Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma certification is preferred.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Leads, coaches, and develops a team of Manufacturing Engineers and technical staff.
• Fosters a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Provides technical guidance and support to production and engineering teams.

Process Development & Optimization

• Designs, develops, and optimizes manufacturing processes for efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Standardizes work methods, process parameters, and documentation.
• Drives continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen principles.
• Analyzes production data to identify opportunities for process improvement.

Program Launch & Engineering Support

• Leads manufacturing engineering activities for new product launches and engineering changes.
• Ensures APQP deliverables are met, including PFMEA, control plans, and process flow diagrams.
• Collaborates with product engineering, quality, and operations to ensure successful launches.

Equipment & Automation

• Specifies, procures, and implements manufacturing equipment, tooling, and automation systems.
• Supports installation, validation, and commissioning of new equipment.
• Drives innovation through automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies within assembly manufacturing processes.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensures compliance with IATF 16949, ISO standards, and customer requirements.
• Supports internal and external audits and corrective action processes.
• Partners with quality teams to reduce defects, scrap, and rework.

Operational Excellence

• Monitors and improves key performance metrics (OEE, cycle time, throughput, and efficiency).
• Supports cost reduction initiatives, including labor and material optimization.
• Works closely with maintenance and operations to improve equipment reliability and uptime.
• All other duties as assigned.

Background

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related Engineering field.
• 8+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering within the automotive industry, Tier 1 preferred.
• Experience leading a team of Engineers.
• Experience with APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, and control plans.
• Proficiency with CAD and manufacturing simulation tools.
• Knowledge of automation, robotics, PLCs, and Industry 4.0 technologies.