What are the responsibilities and job description for the Industrial Engineer position at AIT Global, Inc.?
Job Title: Industrial Engineer
Location: Maple Grove, MN
Location: Maple Grove, MN
Key Responsibilities:
- Design production lines/cells: define process sequence, station content, equipment/tooling requirements, and ergonomic workstation concepts.
- Develop layout options (2D/3D as applicable) to optimize flow, space utilization, safety, and serviceability; support utilities planning (power, air, vacuum, network) and footprint constraints.
- Conduct time studies and work measurement to establish cycle times, standard work, and staffing models; determine takt-based capacity and line rate.
- Perform line balancing and Yamazumi (as applicable) to distribute work evenly and reduce bottlenecks; validate labor assumptions through trials.
- Implement material flow and replenishment systems: Kanban sizing, min/max, supermarket concepts, point-of-use presentation, and pull signals integrated with the warehouse/stores team.
- Define standard work and work instructions for each station including quality checkpoints, torque/spec limits, error-proofing steps, and safety requirements.
- Partner with Quality on control plans, inspection methods, and process capability; ensure the line design supports first-pass yield goals.
- Coordinate with Maintenance for PM needs, spare parts, access, and reliability considerations;
- Drive continuous improvement post-launch using data (scrap, downtime, rework, cycle time) and Lean tools (5S, VSM, Kaizen).
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- 6 years of experience in a manufacturing/plant environment supporting line design, industrial engineering, or production launch activities.
- Strong understanding of Lean concepts including Kanban/pull systems, standard work, 5S, waste identification, and basic value stream mapping.
- Demonstrated ability to perform time studies/work measurement and translate results into staffing, line balance, and capacity recommendations.
- Experience creating layouts and flow diagrams; ability to evaluate alternatives with data (distance, WIP, throughput, safety/ergonomics).
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel (analysis), PowerPoint (communication), and Word (documentation); ability to work cross-functionally and drive action to closure.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with AutoCAD (or similar) and/or 3D layout tools; ability to produce shop-floor-ready layouts and area plans.
- Experience with ERP/MES and material replenishment processes; familiarity with eKanban systems is a plus.
- Knowledge of PFMEA, control plans, process validation, and launch readiness checklists.
- Six Sigma (Green Belt) or formal problem-solving (A3, 8D) experience.
Deliverables & Success Measures:
- Approved line/cell layout package (flow, station plan, material presentation, utilities, safety/guarding considerations).
- Standard work and staffing plan supported by time studies; balanced line meeting takt and throughput targets.
- Kanban design (card quantities/min-max, locations, replenishment routes) that sustains target WIP and reduces stockouts/expedites.
- Launch readiness: successful pilot/ramp with stable cycle times, improved first-pass yield, and reduced rework.
- Documented handoff to Operations/Maintenance (training, PM needs, spare parts, changeover/setup instructions).