What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manufacturing Engineering Leader - Controls Technician - 1st shift (M-F) position at NOVARES?
Date: Apr 2, 2026
Location: GRAND RAPIDS, US, 49512
Company: NOVARES
About Novares
Novares is a global automotive supplier that designs and manufactures advanced plastic components and systems for cars, focusing on innovative, lightweight solutions for greener, connected vehicles, serving major OEMs like Ford, BMW, Tesla, and Stellantis. We specialize in multi-functional parts using complex injection molding and mechatronics, with a strong R&D presence, creating everything from interior elements to exterior panels, and are known for our expertise in high-tech plastic applications.
Job Overview
Salary: Exempt
Work schedule: 1st shift
Job location: Onsite – Grand Rapids MI
Role: The Manufacturing Engineering leader works with the engineering and operations teams to optimize production processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs through lean manufacturing principles. Key responsibilities include troubleshooting equipment issues, overseeing equipment upgrades, plant layout, quality control and implementing/enforcing safety standards. They bridge design and production to ensure high-quality, cost-effective manufacturing.
Key Responsibilities
- Train relevant Personnel in processes: Train and support personnel in work methodologies, operating processes and tools to optimize results
- Ensure Productivity of existing processes: Develop processes, define production layouts, provide technical support and troubleshooting, propose innovative solutions and validate results.
- Process Improvement: Utilizing lean manufacturing principles (e.g., Kaizen, Six Sigma) to reduce waste, increase efficiency, and improve product quality.
- Coordinate Integration of new Projects & Equipment: Planning and executing capital investments, equipment selection, and installation of new tools or production lines.
- Technical Expertise: Defining manufacturing methods, standard work, tooling requirements, and material flow. Strong understanding of PLC’s and manufacturing machine controls
- Safety & Compliance: Ensuring all manufacturing processes comply with EH&S (Environment, Health, and Safety) regulations.
- Collaboration: Working with product design, quality, and production teams to launch new products and resolve quality or production issues on current products.
Benefits
- 401(k) w/ match
- Health / Dental / Vision insurance
- Paid time off
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
Qualifications and Skills
- Education: HS diploma required, formal trade school education or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering preferred.
- Experience: Generally 5 years of experience in manufacturing, with focus on manufacturing machine controls
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks), PLCs, and ERP systems.
- Leadership & Communication: Strong capability to lead teams, solve complex problems, and communicate effectively with team members, customers and management.
Learn More About the Company