SHR Talent is partnering with a client in Nashville, TN in its search for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to lead manufacturing process improvements, optimize production efficiency, and drive continuous improvement initiatives within a growing manufacturing environment. This position will play a critical role in developing and implementing Lean Manufacturing strategies, process engineering solutions, production optimization, and manufacturing automation to improve quality, reduce costs, and increase operational performance. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering, process improvement, and production operations, with a demonstrated ability to identify bottlenecks, troubleshoot complex manufacturing challenges, and implement sustainable solutions on the plant floor. This role requires a hands-on, analytical engineering professional who can collaborate with Production, Quality, Operations, and Engineering leadership to support manufacturing excellence, equipment reliability, and long-term operational growth. Responsibilities Lead manufacturing engineering and process improvement initiatives to optimize production efficiency, product quality, and overall manufacturing performance. Develop, implement, and improve manufacturing processes, production workflows, equipment layouts, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Drive Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives utilizing methodologies such as Kaizen, 5S, Six Sigma, Value Stream Mapping, and Root Cause Analysis. Identify and resolve production bottlenecks, process inefficiencies, equipment limitations, and quality issues through hands-on troubleshooting and data-driven problem-solving. Analyze manufacturing processes, cycle times, labor utilization, material flow, and equipment performance to identify opportunities for productivity improvements. Collaborate with Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Engineering teams to develop and implement practical solutions to complex manufacturing challenges. Lead process optimization, waste reduction, cost savings, and operational efficiency projects across manufacturing operations. Design and improve manufacturing tooling, fixtures, jigs, workstations, and production equipment to enhance efficiency, safety, and product consistency. Support the selection, installation, commissioning, and validation of new manufacturing equipment, machinery, and automation technologies. Partner with Engineering leadership on capital expenditure (CAPEX) projects, equipment upgrades, facility improvements, and long-term manufacturing modernization initiatives. Develop and maintain manufacturing documentation, including work instructions, process flow diagrams, engineering specifications, and standard operating procedures. Conduct Root Cause Analysis (RCA), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), and corrective action investigations to address recurring manufacturing and quality issues. Establish and monitor manufacturing KPIs, including Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), scrap rates, cycle times, downtime, throughput, and production costs. Support new product introduction (NPI), design for manufacturability (DFM), prototype development, and the transition of new products into production. Evaluate and recommend improvements to manufacturing automation, CNC machining, fabrication, assembly, and production technologies, as applicable. Work directly with plant-floor employees and production leadership to ensure engineering improvements are practical, sustainable, and aligned with operational needs. Lead cross-functional engineering projects from concept through implementation, including project planning, budgeting, scheduling, and performance evaluation. Promote a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, safety, quality, and operational excellence throughout the manufacturing organization. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering discipline required. 5+ years of progressive manufacturing engineering experience within a manufacturing, industrial, production, or engineering environment. Proven experience leading Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, process engineering, and production optimization initiatives. Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, production equipment, tooling, fixtures, automation, and industrial engineering principles. Demonstrated success identifying and eliminating manufacturing bottlenecks, production inefficiencies, waste, and quality issues. Experience applying Lean Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping, Root Cause Analysis, and other continuous improvement methodologies. Strong hands-on experience working directly with production teams and plant-floor operations to implement process improvements. Experience with manufacturing equipment design, process development, equipment installation, and capital improvement projects. Proficiency with CAD software, such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar engineering design platforms. Familiarity with CNC machining, fabrication, assembly processes, automation, or specialized manufacturing operations preferred. Experience developing and maintaining manufacturing documentation, SOPs, work instructions, process flow diagrams, and engineering change documentation. Strong understanding of manufacturing quality systems, statistical process control (SPC), FMEA, and corrective and preventive action (CAPA). Ability to analyze production data, manufacturing KPIs, and operational performance metrics to develop actionable engineering solutions. Experience supporting new product introduction (NPI), design for manufacturability (DFM), and production process validation. Knowledge of OSHA regulations, manufacturing safety standards, and engineering best practices. Experience with ERP, MRP, MES, or manufacturing management systems preferred. Strong project management skills with the ability to lead multiple engineering initiatives simultaneously. Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills. Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with Engineering, Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Operations leadership. Demonstrated ability to balance technical engineering expertise with practical, hands-on manufacturing solutions. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt, or other relevant continuous improvement certifications preferred. Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and results-driven professional with a commitment to manufacturing efficiency, product quality, continuous improvement, and operational excellence. #IND123