The manufacturing engineer will help keep production running smoothly through direct hands on troubleshooting and also implement machine/process improvements on existing machinery (PLC automated assembly equipment running plastic parts ~10 sec/part).  This is a hands-on technical role with a lot of exposure to direct troubleshooting of the automation equipment. This requires on-site attendance in our Des Plaines facility to be effective.

• Hands-on overseeing and technical troubleshooting of existing automated equipment/processes (PLC & Computer driven assembly equipment, both in house made and purchased equipment).
• Through various forms of data analysis, develop improvement initiatives or projects that resolve quality and delivery issues, customer complaints, or downtime.
• Develop and implement OEE metrics and create plan for improvement
• Assure product and process quality by designing testing methods; testing finished product, and testing process capabilities. Also establishing standards and confirming manufacturing processes.
• Assist in the development, execution and implementation of process improvements identified and scheduled in annual improvement targets.
• Assist and help develop manufacturing processes with new product launches into production.
• Keep equipment operational by coordinating maintenance and repair services; following manufacturer's instructions and established procedures; requesting special service when needed.
• Assist in the development, execution and implementation of annual capital budgets/projects.
• Improve manufacturing efficiency by analyzing and planning work flow, space requirements, and equipment layout.
• Prepare product and process reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information and trends
• Interface and work shoulder to shoulder with the maintenance and toolroom team on a daily basis to help keep production up and running.
• Other duties as required by management.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in an Engineering Degree
• 1-3 years’ experience in a manufacturing environment
• Experience in medium volume high SKU environment
• Computer skills
• Organizational
• Problem solving

Communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Drive for results
• Working knowledge of lean manufacturing
• Sound knowledge of manufacturing methods and procedures
• Manufacturing knowledge, technical knowledge of products

Physical/Mental Demands:

The physical and work environment requirements described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, lift, move, and handle products, materials, tools, and controls.  The employee frequently is required to stand, periodically may sit, reach with hands and arms, walk or climb with legs and talk or hear.  The employee is regularly required to stand, sit, walk, pull, bend, twist, squat, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must routinely lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or more up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift or move up to 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception. Good manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination are required. The physical and mental requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.

Working Environment:

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate; however, it can be loud for periods of time while working near equipment which is in operation.  Hearing protection and safety glasses may be required.  Employee must be able to hear fork truck horn. The employee must be able to work alone for extended periods of time.  The employee must also be able to work with others as required. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an individual may encounter while performing the essential functions of this position.