Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Our client is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineering Manager to join the team. This position is responsible for leading the engineering team in design, development, implementation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes in a high-volume injection molding manufacturing environment. The Manufacturing Engineering Manager plays a key role in ensuring molded automotive components meet OEM and industry standards. This role ensures engineering solutions align with safety, quality, cost, and delivery objectives, while supporting IATF 16949 standards and lean manufacturing principles.

Our client has been a leading source of plastics manufacturing, supplying the automotive industry for over 40 years. Through highly technical research and development, coupled with a diverse and knowledgeable Management Team and dedicated Associates, and has continued to grow each year. They provide customers with a wide range of full-service support from black-box design concepts to highly engineered composites, TPE's and TPO's as well as specialized extrusion and compression technologies.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS :

• Lead and manage daily activities of the engineering department, including manufacturing, process, and engineering.
• Evaluate current process and GAP analysis from global standards and ensure all molded parts meet automotive quality, durability, and dimensional standards.
• Manage project launches, tooling equipment installations, and process validations.
• Drive process improvements, automation, and cost reduction using lean tools (Kaizen, 5S, VSM, etc.).
• Oversee new product launches, tooling, equipment installations, and process validation.
• Collaborate with team identifying process improvements and cost reduction opportunities to include scrap and usage.
• Oversee a team of Process Technicians, Engineers, and the Tooling team across multiple shifts.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure successful implementation of engineering initiatives.
• Responsible for tooling design, documentation, and assessments.
• Train and implement product and process improvements.
• Communicate standards and troubleshoot issues for new and existing improvements.
• Develop and implement production schedules to meet customer delivery timelines and volume targets.
• Collaborate with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, and supply chain teams to resolve process issues.
• Monitor and optimize key performance indicators (KPIs) such as scrap rate, cycle time, OEE, and downtime.
• Drive a safety-first culture and enforce compliance with company safety policies and OSHA regulations.
• Support APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and control plant development.
• Maintain plant compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 14001, OSHA, and customer-specific requirements.
• Develop and mentor Engineering, Tooling, and Assistant Molding Manager for skill enhancement and succession planning.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS :

7+ years of engineering experience in automotive manufacturing, with 5+ years in a leadership role.

Minimum of ten years' experience in process engineering, tooling, equipment and process improvement

Working knowledge of customer functional performance requirements

In-depth understanding and application of concepts, theories, and principles position discipline

Proven record in managing cross-functional teams and engineering projects.

Prefer plastic injection molding (part design and processing) experience

Automated and plastic materials experience

Strong technical project management, manufacturing engineering, statistical process control capability, and problem-solving skills

Excellent technical and mechanical aptitude

Strong understanding of MRP, quality control, purchasing, and accounting

Lean manufacturing experience a plus; to include 8D, 5 Why, and Six Sigma problem solving skills

Willing and able to travel as necessary

Proficient in CAD software, project management tools, and MS office

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS : The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Ability to stand, walk, sit, talk or hear. Ability to lift 5-25 pounds.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT : General Office environment and manufacturing facility

The specific statements above are not intended to be all-inclusive.

WHAT WE OFFER :

Medical

Dental

Vision

401k with company match

Employee Assistance Program

Employee Discounts

Flexible Spending Account

Life Insurance

Paid time off

Referral Program

Job Promotional Opportunities

Climate controlled environment