Manufacturing Engineer

We are seeking an energetic, driven Manufacturing Engineer to lead continuous improvement initiatives across the manufacturing floor. This is a hands-on role focused on Lean and process improvement across plastic injection molding, clean room assembly, pad printing, and automation.

The ideal candidate will analyze current manufacturing processes and develop action plans using Lean techniques to drive faster changeovers, reduce errors, standardize processes, minimize downtime, and increase OEE. We are looking for someone with a strong desire to learn, a problem-solving mindset, and the drive to continually take on new challenges while working respectfully and collaboratively with others.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and lead continuous improvement projects, including developing action plans, setting goals, managing resources, tracking progress, and providing status updates.

• Manage assigned manufacturing engineering and project management initiatives.

• Apply Lean principles to the design and implementation of new manufacturing processes, methodologies, and equipment layouts to improve overall equipment effectiveness.

• Evaluate manufacturing performance against established goals and adjust improvement plans as needed.

• Analyze process flows and value streams to identify opportunities for improvement.

• Analyze systems and business processes and implement modifications that improve efficiency and overall plant performance.

• Improve and optimize manufacturing processes and equipment.

• Investigate product non-conformances, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.

• Understand process and equipment limitations and develop solutions to improve manufacturing efficiency.

• Develop and improve technical operating instructions and manufacturing documentation.

• Design and implement new manufacturing processes and equipment, including documentation and employee training.

• Support new automation projects and provide lead support as automation is launched into production.

Qualifications & Preferred Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related technical field preferred.

• 3–5 years of hands-on manufacturing engineering experience within a manufacturing facility required.

• Experience with Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement tools.

• Six Sigma training and/or experience preferred.

• Experience with plastic injection molding strongly preferred.

• Experience supporting automation projects; PLC programming experience is a plus.

• Demonstrated ownership and accountability for assigned areas.

• Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively across all levels of an organization.

• Ability to develop and manage project timelines, priorities, resources, and cost budgets.

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

• Proficiency or aptitude with Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Microsoft Project, and SolidWorks.

• Ability and desire to learn new technologies and take on new challenges.

Must be eligible to work in the United States without restriction and without the need for current or future sponsorship.

Resumes can be confidentially sent to eli.stadergogpac or call direct at (319)774-8916.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.

GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.