Manufacturing Engineer

Job Description

Manufacturing Engineer

Hillside, IL | Full-time | On-site

We are seeking a hands-on, detail-oriented Manufacturing Engineer to join a growing industrial manufacturing company. This role is critical in bridging engineering design with production execution—driving process improvements, enhancing efficiency, and supporting high-quality, cost-effective manufacturing operations. This engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams, including product engineering, quality, and operations, to optimize processes, implement lean manufacturing practices, and support new product introductions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes and workflows for efficiency and cost reduction.
• Collaborate with engineering to build accurate routings in the ERP system for both new and existing products.
• Lead manufacturing input during cross-functional engineering design reviews for new products.
• Partner with product engineering to ensure designs are optimized for manufacturability (DFM).
• Develop and maintain work instructions, SOPs, and process documentation.
• Specify, justify, and implement tooling, fixtures, and new equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve production issues in a timely, effective manner.
• Lead or participate in lean initiatives such as 5S, Kaizen events, and value stream mapping.
• Conduct root cause analyses using the 8D methodology and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with ISO and internal quality standards in partnership with the quality team.
• Monitor KPIs related to process capability, yield, and cycle times, and report on performance.
• Support training and development of production staff on processes and equipment.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering (or related field).
• 2–5 years of experience in a manufacturing engineering role, preferably in a high-mix, low-volume environment.
• Solid understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methods.
• Proficiency with CAD software (Inventor or SolidWorks) and ERP/MRP systems.
• 1–2 years of experience with Allen Bradley PLC ladder logic programming.
• Skilled in reading and interpreting technical drawings, specifications, and data.
• Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and organizational skills.
• Effective communicator with a collaborative, hands-on approach.
• Capable of managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Experience in industrial equipment manufacturing or process control is preferred.