The Industrial Engineer assumes a key role in Kreg’s commitment to continuous improvement, responsible for developing, implementing, and leading initiatives that enhance various facets of our manufacturing processes. This role is integral to supporting our overall manufacturing operations. As a key member of the Operations Support team, they work cross-functionally with departments including New Product Development, Packaging Engineers, Quality, Maintenance, Product Managers, Supply Chain, and Marketing. Together, they evaluate material flow, packaging, manufacturing, and distribution layouts to optimize efficiency and elevate the team member’s experience.

So, What’s the Gig?

• Partner with Supply Chain and New Product Development to create, develop and document estimates on product cost, production capacity, and manufacturing lead times to help determine the make vs buy decisions.
• Improve process capabilities, capacity, throughput, workflow and internal logistics to drive increased customer satisfaction in quality, costs, and lead times.
• Define, manage, communicate, and control the status, scope, cost, resources, and timing of multiple projects, and perform risk analysis using project management tools.
• Create, analyze, build, and continually improve flow in manufacturing lines.
• Study operations sequence, material flow, quality specifications, safety and ergonomics to determine worker functions and responsibilities using tools like time studies, REBA, and two hand methodologies.
• Apply statistical methods and root cause analysis techniques to improve manufacturing processes and develop production standards.
• Perform cost analysis on processes or products to determine the most cost-effective method for production or acquisition.
• Reduce setup times on manufacturing processes to promote efficiency and flexibility within operations.
• Assist manufacturing in developing and implementing visual management tools as well as error proofing techniques (poka yoke) to eliminate defects.
• Lead teams in the cost justification, design, and implementation of new equipment.
• Lead kaizen teams and represent manufacturing on cross-functional teams. Train employees on kaizen processes and facilitate employee-lead kaizen teams.
• Be a spokesperson for the voice of the customer (internal and external) and champion improvements.
• Maintain plant layout using 2D software to visualize flow throughout the facilities.
• Create, update, and audit all levels of documentation to ensure adherence to standardized work and form a benchmark for continuous improvement.
• Apply Lean principles to all manufacturing and business processes.

What We’re Looking For:

• BS degree in Industrial or Manufacturing Engineering or equivalent experience.
• 1-3 years industrial experience in a metal fabrication and/or manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with 3D modeling software, specifically SolidWorks.
• Ability to use 2D layout software.
• Understanding of ERP systems, especially costing and bills of materials functions.
• Lean certification or experience is desirable.
• Experience in injection molding (design and/or manufacturing) a plus.

Other Skills and Abilities We’re Looking For:

• Strategic thinking and the ability to drive and implement projects that align with organizational objectives.
• Proficient in mechanical operations encompassing a comprehensive understanding of machine shop equipment, power tools, and related machinery.
• Effective coordination and leadership skills to facilitate company-wide process changes across multiple departments and areas.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and root cause analysis techniques.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a data-driven approach to process improvement.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; strong communicator.
• Ability to organize and manage multiple projects.

Join us at Kreg Tool!

Kreg Tool is proud to be an employee-owned company that manufactures a wide variety of tools, accessories, and equipment for woodworkers and do-it-yourselfers. Guided by a unique purpose and values, we are driven to provide quality products to customers, are fully committed to employees, and are dedicated to the community. We aspire to give employees the tools they need to achieve personal growth and success throughout their career. Each employee is a valuable member of our team, all working together to co-create our futures by serving our customers, community, and one another.

Headquartered in a beautiful new campus in Ankeny, Iowa (just off I-35 north of Des Moines), Kreg creates products that are available throughout North America in the nation’s major home improvement stores, such as Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Menards. We recognize the importance of work-life integration and the health of our employees and acknowledge this through a flexible schedule and competitive benefits package. Beyond medical, vision, and dental benefits, Kreg also offers a “dress for your day” dress code, onsite fitness center, annual bonus opportunity, and volunteer time off, as well as paid parental leave, and tuition and wellness reimbursement.