What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manufacturing Engineer position at Hapco Pole Products?
The Manufacturing Engineer supports the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes, equipment, and products. Reporting to the Manufacturing Engineering Manager, this role is responsible for optimizing production methods, supporting new product launches, improving efficiency and quality, and ensuring safe, cost-effective manufacturing operations. The Manufacturing Engineer collaborates with cross-functional teams to drive operational excellence and achieve company objectives. This position reports directly to the Manufacturing Engineering Manager.
Key Responsibilities
Manufacturing Process Development
Key Responsibilities
Manufacturing Process Development
- Develop and implement manufacturing methods, processes, and technologies for new and existing products.
- Analyze engineering drawings and specifications to establish optimal manufacturing processes.
- Create tooling concepts, process flow layouts, and manufacturing plans.
- Design and support tooling, fixtures, and production equipment.
- Evaluate equipment capacity and manufacturing resource requirements.
- Launch new products into manufacturing.
- Participate in prototype builds and production startup activities.
- Establish manufacturing standards and process documentation.
- Support successful transition from development to production.
- Identify and implement opportunities to improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
- Participate in Kaizen events, Value Stream Mapping, and Lean initiatives.
- Improve manufacturing efficiency, cycle time, and process flow.
- Implement best practices and standardized work procedures.
- Monitor process performance and recommend corrective actions.
- Manage multiple manufacturing projects simultaneously.
- Ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
- Review manufacturing plans, specifications, and process requirements.
- Coordinate activities with engineering, operations, and external suppliers.
- Investigate and resolve manufacturing process issues.
- Troubleshoot production equipment and tooling concerns.
- Support root cause analysis and corrective actions.
- Recommend repair, replacement, or redesign of manufacturing processes and products.
- Work closely with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain teams.
- Provide manufacturing engineering support during project and production meetings.
- Train and mentor employees on manufacturing processes and procedures.
- Support a team-oriented environment focused on continuous improvement.
- Travel is required up to 25% and may include visits to other company facilities, projects, training events and cross-functional collaborations.
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
- Minimum three (3) to five (5) years of Lean Manufacturing experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Demonstrated experience implementing Lean methodologies and leading operational improvement initiatives.
- Experience with project management and production cost analysis.
- Knowledge of Six Sigma and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to prioritize multiple projects and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to apply common-sense understanding when carrying out instructions provided in written, oral, or diagram form.
- Ability to create, read, and accurately interpret documents.
- Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to manage situations involving multiple variables and changing priorities.
- Ability to analyze data and translate findings into actionable process improvements.
- Perform movements such as climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
- Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.
- Requires close vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods while supporting manufacturing operations.
- Frequent use of hands to finger, handle, and feel.
- The position is primarily office-based with regular involvement in the manufacturing plant. Required personal protective equipment (PPE) and all plant safety procedures must be followed while in production areas.
- Any employee who does not understand any portion of the job description for this position needs to bring that fact to their manager’s attention so they can provide further work performance or safety instructions, as needed.