Mechanical/Industrial Engineer

Summary The Mechanical / Industrial Engineer is responsible for improving manufacturing processes, equipment performance, production efficiency, and overall operational effectiveness within the facility. This role supports continuous improvement initiatives, develops process standards, troubleshoots production issues, and works cross-functionally to enhance safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance. This role also will play a key role in the design and development of new products, as well as improvements to existing products, by performing the following duties. This includes interaction with customers and internal departments to identify and develop new product designs and applications, as well as following new product development (NPD) processes and using engineering expertise in managing NPD projects. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Collaborates with a wide variety of functional areas such as sales, marketing, engineering, manufacturing, and operations to research new product ideas and develop product definitions responsive to customer needs and market opportunities. Periodically attends trade shows and travels with Sales for market research and product development purposes. Visits customers as needed to discuss and evaluate new opportunities and solutions in response to specific customer requirements, while providing technical engineering expertise and guidance. Reviews and analyzes product proposals to determine if benefits derived and possible applications justify expenditures. Analyzes and evaluates new products, designs, and cost improvements to improve the competitive position of the company. Analyzes and evaluates technology and operations requirements, other resource needs, and market demand to assess and determine the feasibility of product projects. Reviews formal technical requirements issued by customers and develops responsive and conforming design proposals/bids. Analyze manufacturing processes to identify opportunities for improved productivity, quality, and cost reduction. Design, develop, and implement process improvements, workflow changes, and equipment modifications. Support production teams with troubleshooting of mechanical and process-related issues. Develop and maintain work instructions, process documentation, layouts, and engineering standards. Lead or participate in continuous improvement initiatives including Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, 5S, and Kaizen activities. Assist with capital equipment projects including specification, installation, validation, and startup. Conduct time studies, capacity analysis, and labor utilization assessments. Collaborate with Production, Maintenance, Quality, Supply Chain, and Safety teams to support operational goals. Evaluate production data and generate reports to monitor efficiency, scrap, downtime, and throughput. Ensure manufacturing processes comply with safety, quality, and environmental standards. Support new product introductions and engineering change implementation. Recommend tooling, fixture, and automation improvements to optimize production. Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action activities. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field. 2-5 years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment preferred. Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement principles. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Experience with CAD software and manufacturing systems preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel. Strong communication and teamwork skills. Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment. Preferred Skills Experience with ERP/MRP systems. Familiarity with automation, robotics, or CNC manufacturing processes. Six Sigma certification or Lean training preferred. Knowledge of OSHA and workplace safety standards. Experience conducting time studies and process mapping. Physical Requirements Ability to walk the production floor for extended periods. Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, moving equipment, and varying temperatures. Work Environment This position operates in both an office and manufacturing production environment. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required while on the production floor.