Manufacturing Process Improvement Technician

Paylocity; South Bend (IN); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Masterbilt Precision Machining is seeking a Manufacturing Process Improvement Technician to support and enhance operations on the production floor. You will analyze processes, identify bottlenecks, and partner with the Operations Manager and cross-functional teams to implement efficiency, quality, and safety improvements.

Ideal candidates have at least 3 years in manufacturing or process improvement, familiarity with CNC equipment, and experience with Lean/Six Sigma or similar methodologies.

Qualifications

• Three (3) years of manufacturing/processing experience preferred.
• Experience with CNC machines and production equipment preferred.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma or continuous improvement methodologies preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities.
• Proficient with Excel and Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Analyze manufacturing processes to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with Operations Manager to implement productivity and quality improvements.
• Observe operations to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
• Work with machinists, maintenance, and supervisors to improve machine utilization.
• Support troubleshooting of equipment and production issues.
• Develop and maintain process documentation and standard operating procedures.
• Lead or participate inLean and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collect and analyze production and downtime data to drive metrics.

Job description

Description

About Masterbilt Precision Machining:

Founded with a commitment to excellence in precision manufacturing, Masterbilt Precision Machining has established itself as a leader in delivering high-performance components across a range of industries. Our mission is to provide superior quality through innovation, advanced CNC machining processes, and a relentless focus on continuous improvement.

At Masterbilt, we operate in a collaborative, fast-paced environment where teamwork and innovation drive success. We take pride in fostering a culture that empowers employees to grow, contribute meaningfully, and uphold our core values of quality, integrity, and operational excellence. Through our dedication and expertise, we consistently meet the evolving needs of our customers while maintaining the highest standards in manufacturing.

Position Description:

The Manufacturing Process Improvement Technician is responsible for supporting manufacturing operations through the evaluation, development, and implementation of process improvements that increase efficiency, productivity, quality, safety, and overall operational performance. This position works directly with the Operations Manager and collaborates with Production, Quality, Engineering, Maintenance, and Planning teams to identify opportunities for improvement and resolve operational challenges.

The role is hands‑on in nature and focuses on machine performance, workflow optimization, process standardization, waste reduction, and continuous improvement initiatives. This position does not have supervisory responsibilities and is expected to spend a significant amount of time on the production floor supporting operational improvements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Essential Functions

• Analyze manufacturing processes and workflows to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Work directly with the Operations Manager to implement initiatives that improve productivity, quality, efficiency, and throughput.
• Observe manufacturing operations and identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.
• Work closely with machine operators, setup personnel, maintenance technicians, and supervisors to improve machine utilization and operational performance.
• Assist with troubleshooting manufacturing equipment and production‑related issues.
• Support machines set up improvements and process optimization efforts.
• Monitor equipment performance and recommend improvements to reduce downtime and increase efficiency.
• Conduct root‑cause analysis and assist in implementing corrective and preventive actions.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, work instructions, and standard operating procedures.
• Assist with implementation of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives.
• Collect and analyze production data, downtime data, scrap data, and other key performance indicators.
• Recommend cost‑saving opportunities through process improvements and waste reduction initiatives.
• Support production startup activities, equipment installations, and process validation projects.
• Collaborate with Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Engineering personnel to improve workflow and operational effectiveness.
• Follow all company safety, quality, and environment requirements.

Qualifications and Competency Requirements:

Experience & Education

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum of three (3) years of manufacturing, maintenance, machining, operations, or process improvement experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing and machining processes.
• Experience working with CNC machines and production equipment preferred.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Continuous Improvement, or similar methodologies preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities.
• Experience using Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Experience with ERP/E2 systems preferred.

Additional Attributes

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to identify process inefficiencies and implement practical solutions.
• Self‑motivated and results oriented.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Compliance

• Ability to comply with and pass all required background check and drug screening requirements, including but not limited to pre‑employment and random drug screening as required/requested.
• Compliance with all company safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality of customer and company information.

Physical Activities & Working Conditions

The physical demands and working conditions described here are representative, but not exhaustive, of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Frequently stand and walk throughout the manufacturing facility.
• Occasionally lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Bend, kneel, squat, climb ladders, and reach overhead as required.
• Work in both office and production environments.
• Use computers and production systems for extended periods.
• Exposure to machinery, noise, dust, oil, and varying temperatures in a manufacturing environment.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required as appropriate.
• Ability to work overtime or adjusted schedules when necessary to support operational needs.