Process Optimization Engineer — Manufacturing Systems

Atlas Mfg.; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Atlas Mfg. in Minneapolis, MN is seeking a Process Optimization Engineer to review performance data, troubleshoot real‑time issues, and fine‑tune workflows on the production floor. You will collaborate with production, quality, and design teams to implement improvements and drive efficiency.

You’ll lead lean initiatives, refine standard work, and support new technologies or products entering manufacturing. This role emphasizes teamwork, problem‑solving, and hands‑on coaching of staff.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• 4+ years of experience in a manufacturing engineering role.
• Deep knowledge of manufacturing processes, tooling and enabling technologies.
• Proficiency with CAD and core engineering tools.
• Strong analytical problem-solving and high attention to detail.
• Collaborative mindset with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with lean and continuous improvement methodologies is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and refine manufacturing processes to drive productivity and product quality.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to identify, analyze, and resolve production challenges.
• Create and maintain process documentation, including work instructions and SOPs.
• Apply lean manufacturing principles to reduce waste and improve flow.
• Support new product and technology introductions into manufacturing.
• Conduct regular process audits to ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Train and coach production staff on new methods and equipment.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Collaboration

Communication

Lean/CI experience

Education

Bachelor's in Manufacturing or Industrial Engineering

Tools

CAD

Core engineering tools

Job description

Day-in-the-Life in Minneapolis, MN

Step onto the production floor and help shape how high-quality products are built. As our Process Optimization Engineer, you’ll spend your mornings reviewing performance data, troubleshooting issues in real time, and fine-tuning workflows. Midday often finds you side-by-side with production, quality, and design teams to diagnose root causes and keep output on track. Your afternoons might include running a lean event, updating standard work, or preparing a new technology or product to transition smoothly into the line.

How You’ll Make an Impact

• Design, implement, and refine manufacturing processes to drive productivity and product quality.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to identify, analyze, and resolve production challenges.
• Create and maintain process documentation, including work instructions and SOPs.
• Apply lean manufacturing principles to reduce waste and improve flow.
• Support new product and technology introductions into manufacturing.
• Conduct regular process audits to ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Train and coach production staff on new methods and equipment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• 4+ years of experience in a manufacturing engineering capacity.
• Deep knowledge of manufacturing processes, tooling, and enabling technologies.
• Proficiency with CAD and core engineering tools.
• Strong analytical problem-solving and exceptional attention to detail.
• Collaborative mindset with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with lean and continuous improvement methodologies is a plus.

Technical Fluency

• Troubleshooting skills
• Design for Manufacturability (DFM)