Manufacturing Engineer

Role Summary Manufacturing Engineer

MANN+HUMMEL

Water & Fluid SolutionsLocation:

Goleta, CA#LI-Onsite

MANN+HUMMEL

Water & Fluid Solutions is seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Engineer with a strong background in Process Engineering, Industrial Engineering, and Manufacturing Automation to support manufacturing operations and continuous improvement initiatives within a fast-paced production environment. This role is heavily focused on process optimization, automation integration, recipe development for automated systems, poka-yoke implementation, equipment/process reliability, and operational excellence. The ideal candidate will have experience improving manufacturing robustness through engineered process controls, automation support, Lean Manufacturing practices, and cross-functional collaboration. This position requires a highly engaged engineer capable of supporting day-to-day manufacturing operations while also leading process improvements, capital projects, automation initiatives, and safety/quality improvements throughout the facility. Cross-functional collaboration is considered a cornerstone of manufacturing success within the organization. This role will work closely with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Production Scheduling, EHS, and Leadership teams to drive sustainable operational improvements.

Main Tasks Develop, optimize, and sustain manufacturing processes focused on efficiency, quality, ergonomics, and safety. Analyze manufacturing flow, bottlenecks, cycle times, labor utilization, and machine performance. Conduct time studies, line balancing activities, and capacity analysis. Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing principles. Develop standardized work instructions, process documentation, and visual management systems. Support process validations, DOE activities, PFMEA development, and Control Plans. Lead root cause investigations and implement corrective actions for process and quality issues. Support automated manufacturing equipment and motion systems including Cartesian systems and automated production equipment. Develop, modify, and optimize machine recipes and automated process parameters. Implement poka-yoke systems and engineered safeguards to improve safety and product quality. Support troubleshooting and optimization of HMIs, sensors, pneumatic systems, and automated processes. Assist with commissioning, FAT/SAT execution, startup support, and equipment validation activities. Work with integrators, vendors, and Maintenance to improve equipment reliability and process robustness. Design fixtures, tooling, machine guards, brackets, and process improvements using SolidWorks. Create and maintain technical drawings and manufacturing layouts. Support manufacturing-related CAPEX projects and equipment modifications. Assist with equipment installation planning, process integration, and startup execution. Provide direct floor support to production operations and manufacturing personnel. Support TPM initiatives and equipment reliability programs. Monitor and improve KPIs related to downtime, labor efficiency, scrap, throughput, and OEE. Participate in Kaizen events and operational excellence initiatives. Support operator training and process implementation activities. Work closely with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Production Scheduling, Procurement, and EHS teams. Maintain strong communication and responsiveness while supporting production needs. Build positive working relationships with operators, supervisors, technicians, engineers, and vendors. Contribute actively to continuous improvement initiatives and problem-solving activities. Support a culture of accountability, operational excellence, and teamwork throughout the facility. Experience Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical discipline. Minimum 3 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process engineering, or industrial engineering within a manufacturing environment. Experience supporting automated manufacturing systems and process optimization initiatives. Experience developing or modifying machine recipes and automated process parameters. Experience implementing poka-yoke and error-proofing systems. Proficiency with SolidWorks and mechanical drafting. Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities. Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills. Preferred Qualifications Experience in filtration, converting, membrane manufacturing, or high-volume manufacturing environments. Familiarity with PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and industrial automation systems. Experience with Cartesian motion systems or automated handling systems. Experience supporting FAT/SAT activities and equipment commissioning. Knowledge of PFMEA, SPC, TPM, Control Plans, and process validation methodologies. Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience. Preferred Skills Hands-on and floor-oriented leadership style. Strong mechanical and process intuition. Self-driven and capable of managing multiple priorities. Strong analytical and troubleshooting mindset. Comfortable operating within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Strong sense of ownership and accountability.