Manufacturing Engineer-Paint Process

American Rheinmetall • Lansing, MI

6h

About The Position

American Rheinmetall is a leader in the design, development, and production of advanced tracked and wheeled vehicles, vehicle systems, and critical components that support U.S. military modernization. Our expertise spans electronic and mechanical systems, fabricated structures, armored products, rubber solutions, and track systems, delivering reliable innovation to both defense and commercial markets. As part of the global Rheinmetall family, we combine proven heritage with forward-looking technology to provide solutions that defend and feed the world. Job Summary: The Manufacturing Paint Process Engineer applies engineering methodologies to support Production planning and readiness, and continuous improvement initiatives within the paint and pretreatment manufacturing operations. This role provides experience with pretreatment chemistry, surface preparation, coating application, and curing processes to ensure strong and continuous production output in support of overall manufacturing operations. Ensures optimal levels of safety, quality, productivity, and on-time delivery by collaborating with cross-functional teams and providing hands-on technical support. This position ensures compliance with internal standards and customer requirements while supporting continuous improvement initiatives across paint and pretreatment systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing, Chemical, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in manufacturing or process engineering role
• Basic working knowledge of paint and pretreatment processes, including surface preparation and coating application
• Familiarity with manufacturing process documentation such as work instructions, process flows, and control plans
• Understanding of safety, quality, and environmental requirements in a manufacturing environment
• Analyzing process data and support root cause problem solving
• Experience working in cross-functional teams to support production and continuous improvement activities
• Proficiency in standard engineering tools and software (e.g., Microsoft Office, basic CAD or process analysis tools)
• Strong organizational and communication skills

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing, Chemical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering, or a related technical discipline
• 3–7 years of experience in manufacturing engineering with a focus on paint and pretreatment processes
• Strong technical knowledge of surface preparation and pretreatment systems (phosphate, zirconium, or equivalent technologies)
• Experience with industrial paint processes including e-coat, powder coating, and/or liquid paint application
• Working knowledge of paint booth operation, curing ovens, material handling systems, and environmental controls
• Understanding of process control methods, SPC, PFMEA, and control plan development
• Experience supporting new program launches, line and production readiness activities
• Familiarity with regulatory and environmental requirements related to paint operations (VOC, waste treatment, safety compliance)
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex process and quality issues using data-driven methodologies
• Experience with continuous improvement tools such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Kaizen
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams

Responsibilities

• Development, review, maintenance, and control of engineering documentation. Including TDP (Technical Data Package), Bill of Material, Process Flow / Routings, Floor Layouts, PFMEA, and Work Instructions.
• Support manufacturing with process and document interpretation.
• Work with Quality departments to ensure validation checks are built into the process.
• Provide support to estimating on quoting.
• Develop and validate processes and processing times / standards.
• Support lessons learned activities and implementation into quotes and standards.
• Identification of tooling needs. Assistance in tool conceptualization.
• Identify and address opportunities to eliminate waste within the manufacturing process.
• Participate in cost reduction efforts and support/implement continuous improvement activities.
• Support corrective actions as required.
• Support Program Management in APQP activities, as well as project cost adherence.
• Consult with customers, and provide expertise, to maximize the integrity, efficiency, and manufacturability of designs on new and existing projects.
• Provide floor support during trouble shooting activities.
• Assist with customer activities/support as requested

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level