Mechanical Engineering Manager

Dart Container; Michigan; On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with company matching

Job summary

Dart Container is seeking a hands‑on Process Engineering Manager to lead onsite line startups, tooling launches, and drive operational excellence across our manufacturing operations.

You will own the department responsible for line start‑up, line‑out, and process optimization, ensuring smooth transitions from prototype to full‑scale production. This role emphasizes technical leadership, data‑driven decisions, and continuous improvement across multiple shifts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field with 6+ years of engineering experience.
• Associate’s degree with 12+ years hands-on engineering experience.
• 5+ years of supervisory/leadership experience.
• Experience analyzing production equipment and processes, solving manufacturing challenges.
• Proven ability to lead large, complex engineering projects.
• Advanced knowledge of manufacturing equipment and processes including thermoforming/injection molding.
• Strong engineering principles applied to product and process design.

Responsibilities

• Build and execute department strategy supporting prototype runs, material development, equipment scheduling, and multi-shift/multi-week plant startups.
• Create process standards, SWIs, quality standards, and lead advanced troubleshooting initiatives.
• Lead technical staff development, vendor management, and assess capabilities.
• Develop departmental KPIs and use data-based analysis to drive improvements.
• Support facilities during complex failures and oversee cross-functional collaboration.

Skills

Leadership

Data-driven decisions

Process optimization

Project management

Vendor management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Associate’s degree with 12+ years hands-on engineering experience

Tools

EPS knowledge

Injection molding knowledge

Job description

Lead the Launch. Optimize the Line. Drive the Future.

Are you a hands‑on engineering leader who thrives on bringing production lines to life, solving complex technical challenges, and building high‑performing teams? We’re looking for a Process Engineering Manager to lead onsite line startups, tooling and equipment launches, and drive operational excellence across our manufacturing operations.

What You’ll Lead

As the Process Engineering Manager, you’ll own the department responsible for line start‑up, line‑out, and process optimization, ensuring seamless transitions from prototype to full‑scale production.

Key Responsibilities

Build & Execute Strategy: Develop and lead department strategies supporting prototype runs, material development, equipment scheduling, and multi‑shift/multi‑week plant startups.

Process Excellence: Create SWIs, process documentation, quality standards, and lead advanced troubleshooting initiatives.

Technical Leadership: Support facilities during complex failures, identify and manage trusted vendors, and assess and develop technical staff capabilities.

Data‑Driven Improvement: Develop departmental KPIs and use data‑based analysis to drive measurable business improvements.

Optimization & Continuous Improvement:

• Scrap reduction projects
• Line optimization
• Product weight reduction

What You Will Bring

• A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field with 6+ years of engineering experience, or
• An Associate’s degree with 12+ years of hands‑on engineering experience
• 5+ years of supervisory and/or technical leadership experience, with a proven ability to lead teams and influence outcomes
• Demonstrated expertise in analyzing production equipment, processes, and materials, with a track record of solving complex manufacturing challenges
• Experience successfully leading large, complex engineering projects from concept through execution
• Advanced technical knowledge of manufacturing equipment and processes, including facilities systems, EPS, plastics (thermoforming and/or injection molding), print, and/or paper operations
• Strong command of engineering science and technology, applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to product and process design

Proficiency in design techniques, tools, and documentation, including the creation of precision technical plans, models, and process documentation.

Benefits

Dart Container full‑time employees enjoy great benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with company matching contributions, paid vacation, paid holidays, short‑term disability, tuition assistance, product discounts and more.

Dart Container is a drug‑free workplace. Candidates are subject to a drug test (excluding THC/marijuana/cannabis) and background check at the time of offer.

*THC testing ONLY when such testing is required by law.

Dart Container is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all candidates for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation to access this website or for the application process, you should call Dart at 800‑545‑3278 Ext 3370 or email us at [e-mail]. Relay calls can be made by dialing 711 or the relay number for your state.

If you experience difficulty applying online, you may call (800) 545‑3278 Ext 3390 or email us at [e-mail] for assistance.