Production Engineer
Job Summary
We are seeking a results-driven Production Engineer to support manufacturing operations by improving production processes, equipment performance, product quality, and operational efficiency. This role is responsible for evaluating manufacturing systems, implementing process improvements, supporting new product introductions, troubleshooting production issues, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize safety, quality, productivity, and cost performance.
Key Responsibilities
Manufacturing Process Improvement
- Evaluate and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, equipment utilization, material flow, product quality, and workplace safety.
- Identify opportunities for cost reduction, waste elimination, and continuous process improvement.
- Develop and implement manufacturing standards, work instructions, and process documentation.
- Analyze production data to identify trends and recommend improvements.
Production Support
- Provide day-to-day engineering support to manufacturing operations by troubleshooting equipment and process issues.
- Respond to production interruptions and work closely with operations and maintenance teams to minimize downtime.
- Support tooling, equipment, and manufacturing systems to ensure reliable production.
- Assist with equipment setup, process validation, and operational improvements.
Equipment & Automation
- Support the installation, commissioning, and optimization of manufacturing equipment.
- Maintain equipment documentation, process parameters, and engineering records.
- Assist with troubleshooting automated systems, PLC-controlled equipment, and manufacturing technologies.
- Collaborate with maintenance teams to improve equipment reliability and preventive maintenance practices.
New Product & Project Implementation
- Lead or support new product introductions and engineering change implementations.
- Coordinate equipment selection, tooling design, production trials, process validation, and production readiness activities.
- Develop production layouts, material flow plans, and staffing recommendations for new manufacturing processes.
- Manage engineering projects from planning through implementation while meeting schedule and budget objectives.
Quality & Continuous Improvement
- Participate in quality investigations and root cause analysis for manufacturing issues.
- Develop and implement corrective and preventive actions to improve product quality and reduce defects.
- Monitor key manufacturing performance indicators, including scrap, downtime, throughput, and productivity.
- Support Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or other continuous improvement initiatives.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with Production, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Engineering teams to achieve operational goals.
- Provide technical guidance and training to production personnel on new equipment and processes.
- Stay current on emerging manufacturing technologies and recommend innovative solutions to improve operations.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering discipline preferred.
- 3-7 years of experience in manufacturing, production engineering, or industrial engineering.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, production systems, and industrial equipment.
- Experience troubleshooting manufacturing equipment and production processes.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
- Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and engineering documentation tools.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with automated manufacturing equipment, PLCs, robotics, or industrial control systems.
- Experience in welding, machining, assembly, stamping, or other high-volume manufacturing environments.
- Familiarity with CAD software, ERP systems, and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent continuous improvement certification.
- Experience leading capital projects, equipment installations, or new product launches.