We are currently seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer for our Harper Woods, MI facility. This position develops and maintains effective Manufacturing Processes and Systems using best engineering and quality practices to provide optimum solutions to meet company goals and objectives. This position drives continuous improvement activities and cost reduction strategies focused on enhancing production efficiency, reducing waste and exceeding customer expectations.

The right candidate MUST have a working knowledge of welding facilities

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with Assembly and Production teams to resolve machine, design, equipment, and process issues, ensuring products meet customer expectations. Coordinate with Quality teams to resolve defects, reduce scrap rates, and implement corrective actions.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing issues on the production floor using structured problem-solving tools such as 8D and 5 Whys to address bottlenecks, downtime and identify root causes.
• Execute and follow up on manufacturing improvements related to procedures, labor optimization, production rates, workflow, material handling (preferred), and detection methods.
• Audit and maintain manufacturing documentation and reports. Update and develop specifications, standard operating procedures, process routings, engineering change requests, equipment and facility layouts, and PFMEAs.
• Oversee plant layout redesigns and automation initiatives, ensuring timely completion and adherence to budget.
• Lead the development, maintenance, and implementation of PFMEAs and process-related improvements.
• Identify, develop, and implement new processes and systems in line with management's technical and financial objectives.
• Provide cross-functional support for new product launches and design changes, ensuring manufacturing feasibility and smooth implementation.
• Respond effectively to quality concerns and support the achievement of departmental Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Follow Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) methodologies to ensure readiness of products and processes.
• Develop and implement manufacturing processes, including the creation of Job Element Sheets (JES), and select appropriate tooling and equipment based on requirements for process capability, capacity, cost-efficiency, maintainability, and ergonomics.
• Provide leadership and direction to hourly personnel to meet program goals and maintain compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Use simulation tools (e.g., Arena, FlexSim) to model workflows, analyze bottlenecks, and balance assembly lines.
• Establish and implement quality plans to ensure proper setup and calibration of:
  1. All metrological instruments, including gauges
  2. Fixtures and setups
  3. Optimal tooling for each job
  4. Efficient, cost-effective, and high-quality manufacturing operations

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or Process Engineering, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Experience

5+ years of experience in manufacturing, preferably within the automotive seating and/or mechanisms environment.

Welding experience is a plus.

Familiarity and awareness in the following areas:

Pedestrian Safety, Robotics, IATF 16949:2015, 8D and 5 Whys methodologies, Emergency Evacuation Procedures, Ergonomics, Hazard Communication, Safety Signage Awareness, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), Confined Space Awareness, Bloodborne Pathogens Awareness, Lockout/Tagout Procedures, Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP)

Skills

Ability to work in a fast-paced, multitasking environment.

Strong troubleshooting skills related to manufacturing processes and equipment.

Experience in writing Statements of Work (SOW).

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Knowledge of MIG welding and laser welding processes preferred.

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Effective communication and collaboration across departments and with production staff.

Understanding of Methods-Time Measurement (MTM) or other motion/time study methodologies.

Strong root cause analysis capabilities in a manufacturing setting.

Working knowledge of Kaizen and lean manufacturing principles.

Intermediate proficiency in AutoCAD.

Work Environment

50% Office Environment

50% Production Plant Floor.

Minimal travel may be required.

Physical Demands

Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.

Ability to work 8-hour shifts on the production plant floor.