Lean Manufacturing Engineer

Name of Position:   Lean Manufacturing Engineer 

Scope of Position:

 Reporting directly to the Vice President of Supply Chain and Production, the Lean Manufacturing Engineer is a critical leader in optimizing manufacturing processes, improving efficiency, and driving lean initiatives. In this role, you'll utilize your expertise in product design, materials, tooling, and process development to support innovative solutions in the production of industrial HVAC equipment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

·         Optimize Workforce and Workflow: Analyze and strategize workforce utilization, space requirements, and equipment/workspace layouts to maximize efficiency and productivity.

·         Enhance Production Processes: Develop and implement product staging areas, kits, kitting carts/containers, and kanban systems to streamline workflow, reduce labor times, and eliminate waste (Muda).

·         Drive Factory Optimization: Develop, update, and manage factory layouts, work instructions, ISO procedures, and optimize work centers to align with dynamic production requirements.

·         Lead Continuous Improvement Initiatives: Proactively identify opportunities for enhancement, develop strategic plans, and lead the implementation of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement activities across the organization. Effectively utilize and document Kaizen events to foster operational excellence and drive measurable results

·         Foster Lean Culture: Coach and mentor team members at all levels on lean principles, fostering a culture of efficiency and collaboration.

·         Ensure Documentation Accuracy: Review and inspect production engineering release documentation to ensure accuracy and prevent errors from reaching the production floor.

·         Collaborate on Production Planning: Work closely with plant supervisors and lead personnel to review documentation and develop efficient plans for producing industrial HVAC equipment.

·         Analyze and Manage Resources: Maintain and analyze databases related to labor hours and materials across work centers to accurately estimate production times and enhance routing precision.

·         Solve Production Challenges: Perform root cause analysis on production challenges and product defects and implement actionable solutions.

·         Develop Advanced Manufacturing Processes: Research product requirements, testing methods, and collaborate with vendors to develop innovative and efficient manufacturing processes.

·         Support New Product Development: Contribute to product development by communicating manufacturing capabilities, tooling constraints, and feasibility to ensure successful integration.

·         Boost Fabrication Capacity: Support fabrication by managing CNC programming and assisting with turret punch press and fiber optic laser programming as needed.

·         Coordinate Equipment Maintenance: Partner with the maintenance team to ensure production equipment remains operational and effectively serviced.

·         Champion Quality Standards: Adhere to and promote all Quality and Environmental Management System policies, objectives, and obligations.

·         Research and Support Initiatives: Collaborate on engineering activities and research projects to drive innovation and operational success.

·         Adapt to Organizational Needs: Perform additional related duties and responsibilities as assigned to support manufacturing goals.

Position Requirements:

·         Education: Bachelor’s degree in industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field is required.

·         Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably involving sheet metal fabrication and assembly.

·         Technical Expertise: Strong proficiency in manufacturing processes and methodologies, with advanced technical knowledge in lean principles and process optimization.

·         Software Proficiency: Competency in Microsoft Office Suite is required. Experience with Autodesk Inventor software and CNC programming (turret punch presses and fiber optic laser) is highly preferred.

·         Analytical Skills: Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to assess complex problems, interpret data, and make informed decisions.

·         Problem-Solving Abilities: Proven track record of solving production challenges and improving operational efficiency.

·         Project Management Skills: Ability to manage multiple projects effectively, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

·         Leadership Qualities: Capable of leading cross-functional teams, mentoring others, and driving initiatives independently.

·         Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate and convey technical information to diverse teams