Lead Advanced Process Engineer

Cooper Standard•Northville, MI

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Advanced Manufacturing Lead Process Engineer is responsible for the development, optimization, and ownership of all core Cooper Standard Fluids manufacturing processes. This role provides technical leadership across advanced manufacturing initiatives, supports new product launches, and drives continuous improvement through process innovation, automation, and strong cross-functional collaboration.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or electrical engineering required
Minimum of 10 years of experience in small-diameter tube fabrication, including experience with: Steel tube cutting CNC and dedicated metal tube bending Low-carbon steel and aluminum tube end forming and treatment Nylon tube forming and insertion Quick connect assembly Tube-to-hose crimping General assembly, including threaded fastener torque systems Leak testing Flame, furnace, and induction brazing (low-carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum)
Strong knowledge of: Manufacturing process mapping In-process error-proofing techniques and systems Minimum piece flow strategies GD&T
Machine design, including mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems
Demonstrated project management skills, including team leadership and effective issue resolution
Thorough understanding of automotive launch processes and problem-solving methodologies (PPAP, 8D, etc.)
Ability to support cross-functional responsibilities within a manufacturing environment, including production, quality, and purchasing
CAD design proficiency (AutoCAD or SolidWorks), including: 2D site layouts Tool design
Ability and willingness to perform basic machine repair and fabrication tasks
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of automotive product development and validation processes
Experience using SAP
Experience with stamping and coating processes
Experience with machine programming
Experience assembling electro-mechanical systems
Experience with metal roll forming

Responsibilities

Lead continuous improvement efforts for existing manufacturing processes to improve quality, efficiency, cost, and safety
Develop and document new manufacturing processes, standards, and operating guidelines
Design, evaluate, and validate new equipment and tooling for manufacturing applications
Assess product designs for manufacturing feasibility and provide Design Review (DR) milestone support
Support new program launches by: Reviewing and developing equipment Statements of Requirements (SORs) Participating in equipment and tooling prove-out at supplier sites prior to delivery
Partner with Purchasing to support sourcing and procurement of manufacturing equipment, tooling, and production cells
Support process cost estimating and capital planning activities
Provide on-site technical support and develop training materials to support manufacturing teams
Support annual budget development for advanced manufacturing initiatives
Drive labor reduction initiatives through automation and process optimization
Ensure compliance with IATF requirements, including documentation management and external audit support
Perform other duties as assigned