Manufacturing Engineer (Lean Manufacturing)

Position Summary:

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for improving manufacturing processes, reducing waste, increasing productivity, and supporting the implementation of Lean Manufacturing principles throughout the facility. This role partners with operations, quality, maintenance, supply chain, and production teams to optimize workflows, improve safety, enhance product quality, and achieve operational excellence.

Successful Applicant Profile

The successful candidate is a hands-on problem solver who thrives on improving processes, engaging employees, and driving a culture of continuous improvement. They possess strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a passion for eliminating waste and increasing operational efficiency throughout the manufacturing organization.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Lean Manufacturing Leadership

• Lead and facilitate Lean Manufacturing initiatives, including 5S, Kaizen events, Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Standard Work, Visual Management, and Continuous Improvement programs.
• Identify and eliminate waste in manufacturing processes using Lean methodologies.
• Develop and maintain process flow diagrams and value stream maps.
• Drive plant-wide continuous improvement projects focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Train and mentor employees on Lean tools and problem-solving techniques.

Process Improvement

• Analyze manufacturing processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, throughput, and productivity.
• Establish and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as OEE, labor efficiency, scrap, downtime, and inventory turns.
• Conduct time studies and work measurement analyses to improve labor utilization.
• Develop and implement standardized work instructions and best practices.
• Develop packaging recommendations
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions using methodologies such as: 
  • A3 Problem Solving
  • 5 Why Analysis
  • Fishbone Diagrams
  • PDCA

Manufacturing Support

• Design and improve manufacturing layouts to enhance material flow and reduce handling.
• Support new product introductions and production launches.
• Develop and implement tooling, fixtures, and error-proofing (Poka-Yoke) solutions.
• Collaborate with maintenance and production teams to improve equipment reliability and reduce downtime.
• Assist in capacity planning and production balancing activities.
• Assist with problem solving quality and downtime issues, 8D analysis, and other technical support 

Quality and Safety

• Ensure manufacturing processes meet quality standards and customer requirements.
• Support quality improvement initiatives aimed at reducing scrap and rework.
• Participate in safety improvement programs and ergonomic assessments.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety regulations, and industry standards.

Project Management

• Manage continuous improvement projects from concept through implementation.
• Track cost savings and operational benefits resulting from improvement initiatives.
• Present project results and recommendations to management.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Experience with Value Stream Mapping and process optimization
• Strong communication skills - ability to interface with other functions – and work with employees at all levels of the organization
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize and multi-task
• Auto CAD
• Ability to read and interpret product and assembly process prints
• GD&T knowledge and statistical process control (SPC)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Must be very knowledgeable in Process and Manufacturing methods
• Must be able to complete PFMEA, control plans, job instructions, tool routings, standard work, recommended spare parts, and preventative maintenance.

Education & Experience:

• Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or similar degree preferred
• 3-7 years of manufacturing engineering or continuous improvement experience.
• Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing in a production environment.

Physical Requirements:

Positions at JJE may require the following: alternating between sitting and standing; climbing stairs, ladders, scaffolding or ramps; crouching/stooping; driving; near/far visual acuity; fine motor manipulation; gross motor manipulation; hearing; keyboarding; kneeling; lifting/carrying; moving objects; peripheral visual acuity; pushing or pulling; reaching overhead or below; repetitive task performance; sitting; speaking; standing; using foot or leg controls; walking.

Environmental Requirements

Our manufacturing facility is a climate-controlled environment. There is no long-term exposure to dangerously loud noise or extreme temperatures.

Cognitive Requirements

Cognitive abilities include executing tasks independently; learning and/or memorizing tasks; maintaining concentration/focus on tasks; working with/in close proximity to, other people.

Attendance Requirements

All hourly team members are expected to report to work and be ready to work at their scheduled start time. It is required that they adhere to and follow the attendance policy(ies).

All salaried team members are expected to perform their duties/responsibilities in a timely manner. Although they may not have set schedules, they are expected to either be at work on a schedule agreed upon by their manager or be available via phone/text/Teams if working remotely (Remote work does not apply to CWM positions).