Advanced Manufacturing Engineer

Comfort Research LLC  - Grand Rapids, MI

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - Grand Rapids, MI

Furniture and Related Product Manufacturing

About the position

Comfort Research is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Advanced Manufacturing Engineer to join our team! In this role, you will lead the development and implementation of cutting-edge manufacturing processes, technologies, and strategies to drive production efficiency. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in manufacturing equipment, proven experience in process optimization, and the ability to collaborate across teams to enhance overall product quality and operational effectiveness.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate the Core Values of Comfort Research in daily actions, execution of tasks and interactions with others.
• Work closely with the Product Development team to provide manufacturing input during the product development life cycle.
• Integrate design for manufacturability principles to ensure a seamless transition from prototype to production.
• Lead the research, design, and implementation of advanced manufacturing processes or equipment to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and methodologies for potential integration into existing manufacturing processes.
• Identify opportunities for automation to optimize production processes and reduce manual labor; collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement automation solutions.
• Implement advanced quality control measures and statistical process control techniques to ensure product consistency.
• Analyze existing manufacturing systems and workflows to identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies for streamlining processes, reducing cycle times, and increasing overall throughput.
• Identify and implement cost reduction strategies through process optimization, material utilization improvements, and waste reduction initiatives.
• Conduct cost-benefit analyses for proposed changes and improvements.
• Collaborate with production, engineering, and maintenance teams to address manufacturing challenges and implement effective solutions.
• Act as a liaison between engineering, production, and other departments to ensure seamless communication and coordination.
• Provide training and guidance to technical and leadership personnel on the implementation of new processes, technologies, and methodologies.
• Stay informed about industry best practices and train team members accordingly.
• HAVE FUN!
• Other duties as assigned by leadership.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or 15+ years of relevant experience in engineering-type roles - preferably in extrusion, foam, or EPS/EPP/EPE expansion/molding in a manufacturing environment.
• 5+ years of experience leading technical, skill trade, or similar type teams.
• Proven track record of successfully implementing manufacturing processes.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software, simulation tools, and other relevant engineering software.
• Understanding of robot programming and PLC is a must, PLC programming knowledge is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze complex manufacturing processes and propose effective solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to think creatively, propose innovative solutions, and drive continuous improvement.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to convey complex technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Benefits

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) plan that begins accruing upon hire for eligible Ambassadors
• Culture Awards program with opportunities to win cash prizes or extra PTO in addition to company-wide recognition
• Several paid holidays throughout the year
• Hybrid work environment
• Employee Assistance Program
• Growing family bonus & extra PTO for new parents
• Referral Bonus program
• 401(k) program with generous company match
• A variety of health insurance plans to choose from with company contributions to premiums
• Dental, vision, and other ancillary insurance coverages available
• Company-paid Short-Term Disability coverage
• Company-paid Life Insurance policy
• Free product allowances & product discounts