Manufacturing Engineer Manager
- Des Plaines, IL
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Process Improvement and Cost Reduction
- Apply continuous improvement methodologies to enhance safety, quality, and productivity.
- Develop improvement metrics and conduct cost-benefit analyses.
- Monitor and document the effectiveness of productivity initiatives.
- Process Development and Optimization
- Identify and implement new or alternative manufacturing and throughput processes.
- Research and benchmark best practices across the industry.
- Evaluate feasibility and applicability for Filtran operations.
- New Product Introduction
- Lead process development for new or redesigned products to ensure smooth transition into production.
- Coordinate prototype programs and ensure on-time, on-spec delivery.
- Formulate and execute DOE (Design of Experiments), equipment/material evaluations, and resource planning.
- Capital Planning & Tooling
- Conduct short- and long-range capital planning aligned with strategic objectives.
- Research "make or buy" decisions and develop cost-justified recommendations.
- Oversee implementation and fine-tuning of new tools and equipment.
- Equipment and Tooling Improvements
- Analyze existing equipment and tooling for potential improvements.
- Lead assessments and cost-benefit analyses for equipment upgrades or replacements.
- Present and implement process and tooling enhancements.
- Team Development
- Coach and develop manufacturing engineering team members on best practices, data analysis, and action planning.
- Foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within the team.
- Safety Oversight
- Monitor plant safety and lead initiatives to reduce workplace incidents.
- Ensure compliance with OSHA and internal safety standards.
- Cross-functional Collaboration
- Participate in design reviews (prototype feasibility, TMR, production readiness).
- Serve as a key liaison between engineering, operations, and other departments to ensure manufacturability and efficiency.
- Other Duties
- Lead or support strategic manufacturing projects and initiatives as assigned.
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a technical discipline.
- 5+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with leadership responsibility.
- Strong background in automotive manufacturing and Tier I supplier environments.
- Demonstrated experience with DOE and project management in a manufacturing setting.
- Proficiency in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement tools (Kaizen, 5S, poke yoke, one-piece flow).
- Proven track record of driving process improvements and cost reductions.
- Understanding of OSHA and safety compliance requirements.
- Proficiency in MS Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); familiarity with MRP systems.
- Master’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field.
- 10+ years of supervisory experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Experience with high-volume automotive assembly and supplying to Asian OEMs.
- Experience in strategic planning for global manufacturing, particularly in foreign countries.
- Hands-on experience with plastic injection molding processes.
- ASQ certifications or Six Sigma Green/Black Belt.
- Familiarity with statistical software, MS Project, and Access.
- Working knowledge of filtration products or similar mechanical components.