Process Excellence Manager — Lean & Automation Lead

Melling; Jackson (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Melling in Jackson, MI is seeking a Process Engineering Manager to lead and grow the process engineering team, driving operational excellence across manufacturing operations. You will oversee process optimization, new product and equipment implementation, and ensure safety, quality, and efficiency objectives are met.

The role requires 7+ years of engineering experience, 3+ years of leadership, and strong problem-solving, communication, and data analysis skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent preferred.
• 7+ years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 3+ years of leadership or management experience.
• Proven success leading process improvement and operational excellence initiatives.
• Excellent problem solving, analytical and decision-making skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient with data analysis tools, ERP systems and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of process engineers and technical professionals.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, and other operational excellence methodologies.
• Analyze manufacturing processes and identify opportunities to improve safety, quality, cost, productivity, and throughput.
• Develop, implement, and maintain standardized process documentation, work instructions, and operating procedures.
• Manage process validation, capability studies, and root cause analysis activities.
• Lead cross-functional projects involving process improvements, equipment upgrades, automation, and facility expansions.
• Collaborate with production and quality teams to reduce scrap, rework, downtime, and variability.
• Evaluate manufacturing equipment’s performance and recommend enhancements or capital investments.
• Support new product launches, process transfers, and production scale-up activities.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental requirements, and company policies.
• Monitor KPIs and develop action plans to improve operational performance.
• Coordinate with suppliers, contractors, and external partners as needed.
• Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Knowledgeable of and supports Human Resource, Quality and Safety/Environmental policies & practices.
• Promote good employee relations and high morale
• Demonstrate teamwork and respect by working constructively with co-workers to achieve the best results possible
• All other duties assigned by the supervisor or department manager

Skills

Leadership experience

Process improvement

Operational excellence

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Data analysis

ERP systems

Microsoft Office

Prioritization

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent

Tools

ERP systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Melling in Jackson, MI is seeking a Process Engineering Manager to lead and grow the process engineering team, driving operational excellence across manufacturing operations. You will oversee process optimization, new product and equipment implementation, and ensure safety, quality, and efficiency objectives are met.

The role requires 7+ years of engineering experience, 3+ years of leadership, and strong problem-solving, communication, and data analysis skills.