What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manufacturing Engineer – Continuous Improvement & Process Optimization position at Gables Search Group?
Location: Ashland City, TN
Company Overview
Our client is a global leader in innovative and energy-efficient manufacturing technologies, producing residential and commercial water heating, water treatment, and related industrial solutions. With operations spanning North America, Europe, and Asia, the company employs over 12,000 dedicated professionals who take pride in delivering world-class products and driving sustainable performance through continuous improvement and advanced engineering.
Position Summary
We’re seeking a Manufacturing Engineer with a strong background in process optimization, equipment design, and Lean implementation. In this critical role, you’ll lead efforts to improve production efficiency, safety, and product quality while supporting our client’s continuous improvement culture and global manufacturing standards.
You’ll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to evaluate, design, and enhance manufacturing processes—applying engineering expertise to reduce waste, improve throughput, and drive long-term operational excellence.
Note: Candidates must have a minimum of 5 years of directly related manufacturing engineering experience.
Key Responsibilities
This position offers the chance to make a measurable impact in a global manufacturing organization committed to innovation, sustainability, and excellence.
Our Client Provides
Company Overview
Our client is a global leader in innovative and energy-efficient manufacturing technologies, producing residential and commercial water heating, water treatment, and related industrial solutions. With operations spanning North America, Europe, and Asia, the company employs over 12,000 dedicated professionals who take pride in delivering world-class products and driving sustainable performance through continuous improvement and advanced engineering.
Position Summary
We’re seeking a Manufacturing Engineer with a strong background in process optimization, equipment design, and Lean implementation. In this critical role, you’ll lead efforts to improve production efficiency, safety, and product quality while supporting our client’s continuous improvement culture and global manufacturing standards.
You’ll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to evaluate, design, and enhance manufacturing processes—applying engineering expertise to reduce waste, improve throughput, and drive long-term operational excellence.
Note: Candidates must have a minimum of 5 years of directly related manufacturing engineering experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Analyze, design, and optimize manufacturing methods to increase productivity, reduce costs, and improve quality outcomes.
- Apply sound ergonomic and safety practices in all areas of manufacturing.
- Implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies, including 5S, Kaizen, Kanban, Takt Time, and line balancing.
- Participate in Product Development System (PDS) activities, ensuring Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and smooth new product introductions.
- Research and evaluate emerging technologies, automation tools, and process innovations to advance manufacturing efficiency.
- Develop and present capital cost justifications for equipment, tooling, and process improvements.
- Collaborate with vendors and internal teams to ensure compliance with design, quality, and production standards.
- Partner with maintenance, production, and quality teams to troubleshoot issues and lead root-cause analysis initiatives.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field.
- Minimum of 5 years of manufacturing engineering experience within an industrial or production environment.
- Proven experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement methodologies.
- Strong analytical skills and proficiency with data-driven decision-making.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to present findings to management and cross-functional teams.
- Familiarity with design interpretation, process mapping, and technical documentation.
This position offers the chance to make a measurable impact in a global manufacturing organization committed to innovation, sustainability, and excellence.
Our Client Provides
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunities
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Company-sponsored life insurance and disability programs
- 401(k) with company match and retirement plan options
- Tuition assistance and ongoing professional development