The Manufacturing Engineer Manager is responsible for directing all activities related to design-for-manufacturability, process improvement, manufacturing cost reduction, and productivity enhancement. This position oversees the seamless integration of new or redesigned products into the Des Plaines manufacturing facility through strong project management and cross-functional coordination.

The Manufacturing Engineer Manager collaborates closely with Manufacturing, Sales and Marketing, Product Management, Engineering and Tooling, and Finance to drive operational excellence, achieve cost targets, and meet customer delivery requirements.

(The role requires strong technical leadership, practical application of lean manufacturing principles, and the ability to lead cross-functional initiatives to support the company’s productivity, safety, and cost objectives.)

Principal Accountabilities & Supporting Activities:

• Process Improvement and Cost Reduction
• Apply continuous improvement methodologies to enhance safety, quality, and productivity.
• Develop improvement metrics and conduct cost-benefit analyses.
• Monitor and document the effectiveness of productivity initiatives.
• Process Development and Optimization
• Identify and implement new or alternative manufacturing and throughput processes.
• Research and benchmark best practices across the industry.
• Evaluate feasibility and applicability for Filtran operations.
• New Product Introduction
• Lead process development for new or redesigned products to ensure smooth transition into production.
• Coordinate prototype programs and ensure on-time, on-spec delivery.
• Formulate and execute DOE (Design of Experiments), equipment/material evaluations, and resource planning.
• Capital Planning & Tooling
• Conduct short- and long-range capital planning aligned with strategic objectives.
• Research "make or buy" decisions and develop cost-justified recommendations.
• Oversee implementation and fine-tuning of new tools and equipment.
• Equipment and Tooling Improvements
• Analyze existing equipment and tooling for potential improvements.
• Lead assessments and cost-benefit analyses for equipment upgrades or replacements.
• Present and implement process and tooling enhancements.
• Team Development
• Coach and develop manufacturing engineering team members on best practices, data analysis, and action planning.
• Foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within the team.
• Safety Oversight
• Monitor plant safety and lead initiatives to reduce workplace incidents.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA and internal safety standards.
• Cross-functional Collaboration
• Participate in design reviews (prototype feasibility, TMR, production readiness).
• Serve as a key liaison between engineering, operations, and other departments to ensure manufacturability and efficiency.
• Other Duties
• Lead or support strategic manufacturing projects and initiatives as assigned.

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a technical discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with leadership responsibility.
• Strong background in automotive manufacturing and Tier I supplier environments.
• Demonstrated experience with DOE and project management in a manufacturing setting.
• Proficiency in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement tools (Kaizen, 5S, poke yoke, one-piece flow).
• Proven track record of driving process improvements and cost reductions.
• Understanding of OSHA and safety compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in MS Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); familiarity with MRP systems.

Desired:

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field.
• 10+ years of supervisory experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with high-volume automotive assembly and supplying to Asian OEMs.
• Experience in strategic planning for global manufacturing, particularly in foreign countries.
• Hands-on experience with plastic injection molding processes.
• ASQ certifications or Six Sigma Green/Black Belt.
• Familiarity with statistical software, MS Project, and Access.
• Working knowledge of filtration products or similar mechanical components.