Process Improvement Engineer

Position Overview

We are seeking a Process Improvement Engineer to drive operational efficiency and continuous improvement within a heavy industrial manufacturing environment. This role will focus on analyzing production processes, identifying inefficiencies, and implementing solutions to improve throughput, reduce waste, and enhance overall equipment performance.

This is a hands-on role requiring regular time on the production floor working with operators, maintenance, and leadership to drive measurable results.

Key Responsibilities

Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement

• Conduct time studies and process analysis to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies
• Develop and implement improvements to increase throughput, reduce downtime, and improve product quality
• Lead Lean Manufacturing initiatives including 5S, Kaizen, SMED, and waste reduction
• Create and maintain process flow diagrams, value stream maps, and standardized work

Root Cause Analysis & Problem Solving

• Lead root cause analysis (RCA) using tools such as 5 Whys, Fishbone, Pareto, and 8D
• Investigate process issues related to scrap, downtime, and inefficiencies
• Implement corrective and preventive actions and ensure long-term sustainability

Data Analysis & Performance Tracking

• Analyze production data and key performance indicators (OEE, downtime, scrap, yield)
• Develop reports and dashboards to track improvement initiatives
• Use data to drive decision-making and support continuous improvement strategies

Heavy Industrial Process Support

• Work with processes such as metal forming, machining, forging, heat treating, or similar heavy industrial operations
• Partner with maintenance and engineering teams to improve equipment reliability and process stability
• Support capital projects and process changes related to equipment upgrades or facility improvements

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, quality, and engineering teams
• Train operators and team members on new processes and best practices
• Support new product introductions and process validations

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or related field required)
• 5 years of experience in process improvement or manufacturing engineering within a heavy industrial environment
• Strong experience with:
• Time studies
• Process flow mapping / value stream mapping
• Lean manufacturing methodologies
• Root cause analysis tools

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in industries such as steel, metals, forging, foundry, machining, or heavy equipment manufacturing
• Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt)
• Experience with ERP or production tracking systems
• Exposure to capital projects or plant expansions

Key Skills

• Process Optimization & Throughput Improvement
• Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement
• Data Analysis & KPI Tracking
• Root Cause Problem Solving
• Strong Communication & Leadership