Find & Apply For Industrial Engineer Jobs in Glendale Heights, Illinois

Currently our client, a Japanese Manufacturer, is looking for an Lead Production Engineer

• Precision gearing products . 【Location】Glendale Heights, IL 【Position】 Lead Production Engineer
• Precision gearing products 【Compensation】$100,000 【Hiring Syle】Direct hiring, Full-time Job Description ▼Job Description ▼

Overview:

The Lead Production Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing manufacturing processes within the gearbox production process and warehouse system. This role serves as the technical bridge between product design and mass production, ensuring that assembly lines are efficient, safe, and capable of meeting high-precision quality standards. You will lead technical projects and mentor junior engineers to drive continuous improvement in productivity and cost reduction. ▼

Core Responsibilities:

Process Design & Optimization:

Develop and refine assembly sequences, including takt time analysis and workstation layouts, to maximize throughput for various reducer models.

Warehouse & Logistics Automation:

• Design and implement Barcode operation system, Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS) or Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) to streamline the flow of components from the warehouse to the assembly line.

Equipment & Tooling Management:

Lead the specification, procurement, and commissioning of assembly equipment (e.g., hydraulic presses, automated torque-fastening systems, testing machine, leak testers and Testing machines). Design or oversee the creation of specialized jigs and fixtures. New Product Introduction (NPI): Collaborate with R&D through Design for Manufacturing (DFM) reviews to ensure new reducer designs can be assembled efficiently and repeatedly. Continuous Improvement (Lean Manufacturing): Identify bottlenecks and waste within the assembly line. Lead Kaizen initiatives to reduce scrap rates, minimize downtime, and improve ergonomics.

Technical Documentation & Standards:

Establish and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Work Instructions, and Process Flowcharts. Conduct PFMEA (Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) to mitigate manufacturing risks.

Cross-functional Leadership:

Provide technical guidance to the production floor and collaborate with the Quality Engineering team to resolve non-conformities and implement root-cause countermeasures.

Reports to:

Director of Engineering Qualifications Education:

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in production/manufacturing engineering, preferably within the automotive, robotics, or rotating machinery industries.
• Proven track record in assembly line setup or optimization.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in 2D/3D CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or CATIA).
• Strong understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) and precision assembly techniques (e.g., interference fits, shim adjustment, and backlash control)
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles (5S, Value Stream Mapping, Six Sigma)
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a "hands-on" approach to troubleshooting on the shop floor.

Soft Skills:

• Strong project management skills with the ability to handle multiple deadlines.

Language:

Business-level English (written and verbal). Proficiency in Japanese is a plus for local stakeholder coordination.

Pay:

$100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Ability to

Commute:

Glendale Heights, IL 60139 (Required)

Work Location:

In person