We are seeking a motivated Manufacturing Engineer to support the research, development, preparation, and implementation of new technologies and innovative solutions for vehicle final assembly processes across North American manufacturing facilities. Reporting to the Engineering Manager, this role focuses on improving operational excellence through advanced equipment planning, manufacturing process improvements, capital equipment implementation, and the development of innovative engineering tools and business processes. The Manufacturing Engineer will collaborate with internal teams and external partners to improve manufacturing efficiency, optimize logistics and infrastructure, and reduce Cost Per Unit (CPU) while supporting production preparation and new model launches.
Responsibilities
- Support the Assembly Advanced Equipment Planning team in improving operational excellence across vehicle assembly operations.
- Assist with production preparation activities for capital equipment, including investment planning, technical specification development, procurement, installation, and operational sustainment.
- Research, evaluate, and implement new technologies and innovative engineering solutions for vehicle final assembly processes.
- Develop and implement improved manufacturing processes, tools, and business practices to enhance productivity and operational efficiency.
- Collaborate with planning groups, site teams, internal engineering departments, suppliers, and external stakeholders to achieve project objectives.
- Support manufacturing equipment planning, installation, and implementation activities at manufacturing facilities.
- Identify opportunities to reduce Cost Per Unit (CPU) through improvements in manufacturing processes, logistics, and infrastructure.
- Develop and review engineering layouts, equipment designs, and technical documentation using Autodesk AutoCAD and other engineering software.
- Apply manufacturing and production engineering knowledge to evaluate equipment, tools, and processes.
- Support new model launch preparation and major production change initiatives across North American manufacturing facilities.
- Participate in shop-floor activities, equipment assessments, and manufacturing process improvement initiatives.
- Coordinate project activities, track progress, and ensure deliverables meet established technical and operational requirements.
- Support equipment troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance safety, quality, cost, and productivity.
- Travel domestically and internationally, including occasional trips to Japan, for project meetings, observations, and engineering coordination.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in production preparation, manufacturing engineering, or capital equipment projects.
- Experience with capital equipment investment planning, technical specification development, procurement, installation, and operational support.
- Practical knowledge of manufacturing and production engineering equipment, tools, processes, and procedures.
- Proficiency in Autodesk AutoCAD.
- General working knowledge of Autodesk Inventor, Vault, CATIA, and XVL.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Strong problem-solving, analytical, communication, and project coordination skills.
- Ability to work independently, manage priorities, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
- Willingness to work onsite and participate in shop-floor activities.
- Ability to travel approximately 20% domestically and internationally as required.
- Must have personal steel-toed shoes and comply with required personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience supporting two or more new model or major model launch preparations at a North American manufacturing facility.
- Experience in quality engineering and familiarity with automotive quality standards and methodologies, including ISO, NAQSR, and FMEA.
- Knowledge of vehicle structures, vehicle design standards, and automotive manufacturing processes.
- Practical knowledge of PLCs, electrical circuitry, and industrial automation.
- Familiarity with programming languages such as C/C++, Python, or Java.
- Understanding of wireless network architecture.
- Knowledge of machine design, machining, and fabrication.
- Experience using powered tools and general-purpose tools.
- Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing equipment, tools, and production processes