What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manufacturing Engineer position at Dakota Bodies?
Manufacturing Engineer
Department: Engineering / Production
Reports To: Plant Manager
Location: Dakota Bodies Liberty
FLSA Status: Exempt
Position Summary
The Manufacturing Engineer plays a critical role in advancing the performance and reliability of our manufacturing operations. This position is responsible for driving process optimization, cost reduction, and product quality improvements across all production lines. The ideal candidate will lead high-impact engineering initiatives, support new product introductions, and ensure that manufacturing systems meet the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and sustainability within a dynamic manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Qualifications
Education: Education:
Department: Engineering / Production
Reports To: Plant Manager
Location: Dakota Bodies Liberty
FLSA Status: Exempt
Position Summary
The Manufacturing Engineer plays a critical role in advancing the performance and reliability of our manufacturing operations. This position is responsible for driving process optimization, cost reduction, and product quality improvements across all production lines. The ideal candidate will lead high-impact engineering initiatives, support new product introductions, and ensure that manufacturing systems meet the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and sustainability within a dynamic manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage complex manufacturing projects from initial concept through full-scale implementation, ensuring alignment with plant goals, timelines, and customer expectations.
- Design, develop, and refine manufacturing processes, tooling, and equipment to enhance productivity, reduce cycle times, and improve ergonomics.
- Create and maintain detailed process documentation including SOPs, control plans, PFMEAs, and work instructions to ensure consistency and compliance.
- Champion lean manufacturing initiatives such as Kaizen events, 5S programs, and Six Sigma projects to eliminate waste and improve throughput.
- Support the introduction of new models by leading tooling design, process validation, line balancing, and equipment commissioning activities.
- Monitor and analyze production metrics to identify trends, troubleshoot issues, and implement corrective and preventive actions.
- Collaborate closely with teams in quality, maintenance, production, and supply chain to resolve technical challenges and improve overall plant performance.
- Participate in design reviews to ensure products are optimized for efficient and cost-effective manufacturing.
- Provide guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning.
- Ensure all manufacturing activities comply with safety, quality, and environmental regulations, including IATF 16949 and ISO 14001 standards.
Qualifications
Education: Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering required.
- Master’s degree or Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
- 8–10 years of hands-on experience in manufacturing engineering, preferably within the automotive sector.
- Demonstrated success in leading process improvement and capital investment projects.
- Strong background in robotics, automation, and high-volume assembly operations.
- Expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM).
- Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and manufacturing simulation tools.
- Familiarity with industry standards such as IATF 16949 and ISO 14001.
- Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach.
- Strong leadership and project management capabilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills across all levels of the organization.
- Advanced understanding of process control, ergonomics, and industrial safety.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven manufacturing environment.