Mechanical Support - Mfg. Engineer

Colonial Group; Independence (KS); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Standard Motor Products in Independence, KS is seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Engineer to support production operations, lead continuous improvement initiatives, and drive measurable results in safety, quality, productivity, and cost performance.

The role collaborates with Production, Quality, and Maintenance teams to solve problems, improve processes, and implement sustainable manufacturing solutions. A Bachelor's degree in engineering and strong Lean skills are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical Engineering or related field, or equivalent manufacturing experience.
• Experience in manufacturing process improvement and problem solving.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Proficiency with Excel and data analysis tools.
• Strong communication, project management and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily manufacturing engineering support to production operations and resolve process, equipment, and quality issues.
• Lead A3 problem-solving activities using Lean tools such as 5 Why, Fishbone, Kaizen, 5S, SMED, and Standard Work.
• Identify and execute cost-reduction projects focused on scrap, labor efficiency, cycle time, tooling, and material utilization.
• Analyze production data and KPIs, including OEE, downtime, productivity, and scrap, to drive improvement initiatives.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, standard work, and control plans.
• Lead new equipment installations, process validations, and capability studies.
• Collaborate with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams on new product launches and production improvements.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Problem solving

Communication

Teamwork

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing/Industrial/Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

Excel

Data analysis tools

Job description

Manufacturing Engineer

Reports To: Continuous Improvement & Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Location: Independence, KS FLSA Status: Exempt

Drive Continuous Improvement and Manufacturing Excellence

Standard Motor Products is seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Engineer to support production operations, lead continuous improvement initiatives, and drive measurable results in safety, quality, productivity, and cost performance. This role partners closely with Production, Quality, and Maintenance teams to solve problems, improve processes, and implement sustainable manufacturing solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide daily manufacturing engineering support to production operations and resolve process, equipment, and quality issues.
• Lead A3 problem-solving activities using Lean tools such as 5 Why, Fishbone, Kaizen, 5S, SMED, and Standard Work.
• Identify and execute cost-reduction projects focused on scrap, labor efficiency, cycle time, tooling, and material utilization.
• Analyze production data and KPIs, including OEE, downtime, productivity, and scrap, to drive improvement initiatives.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, standard work, and control plans.
• Lead new equipment installations, process validations, and capability studies.
• Collaborate with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams on new product launches and production improvements.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical Engineering, or related field; or equivalent manufacturing experience.
• Experience in manufacturing process improvement and problem solving.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Proficiency with Excel and data analysis tools.
• Strong communication, project management, and teamwork skills.

Preferred

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
• Experience with APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, SPC, and Control Plans.
• Exposure to automation, PLC-controlled equipment, and ERP/MRP systems.

Why Join SMP?

This is an opportunity to make a direct impact on plant performance by improving manufacturing processes, solving complex production challenges, and leading initiatives that deliver measurable business results.

We offer a highly competitive benefits package - more information is available at www.smpbenefits.com.

Standard Motor Products is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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