Manufacturing Engineer

Steele Solutions•Waupaca, WI

17d•Onsite

About The Position

The Manufacturing Engineer reports to the Plant Manager and drives continuous improvement initiatives to enhance safety, quality, productivity, and operational efficiency across Steele Solutions' manufacturing facilities. The role identifies, evaluates, and implements solutions related to manufacturing processes, equipment, tooling, facility layout, ergonomics, and workplace safety. It partners with operations, maintenance, quality, and leadership teams to optimize manufacturing performance and support a culture of safety, innovation, and operational excellence. The position also leads and administers the company's Safety Program, supports its 6S culture, chairs the Safety Committee, and oversees First Responder activities. The engineer investigates safety concerns, maintains Safety Data Sheets, supports regulatory compliance, monitors safety performance, and reinforces safety expectations throughout the organization. The role requires a bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, though equivalent experience may be considered, and at least three years of relevant manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering, or continuous improvement experience in a manufacturing environment. Steele Solutions offers a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for professional development and growth.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
At least three years of manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering, or continuous improvement experience in a manufacturing environment.
Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, tooling, fixtures, and production systems.
Experience with facility layout planning, workflow analysis, and material flow optimization.
Knowledge of industrial safety programs, workplace safety practices, and regulatory compliance requirements.
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and manufacturing-related software applications.
Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis capabilities.
Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret production and operational data.
Experience applying statistical and performance metrics to drive decision-making and continuous improvement.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to present technical information to employees, supervisors, and leadership teams.
Strong organizational, project management, and collaboration skills.
Ability to influence positive change and build strong working relationships across departments.
Ability to perform the physical requirements of the role, including frequently standing, walking, using hands, reaching, speaking, and hearing; occasionally bending, kneeling, crouching, or crawling; regularly lifting up to 10 pounds and occasionally up to 25 pounds; and having close vision.

Nice To Haves

Experience leading process improvement and operational efficiency initiatives.
Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement certification.
Experience leading cross-functional improvement projects.
Experience with safety leadership programs and 6S initiatives.
Background in metal fabrication, welding, machining, or industrial manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

Analyze production methods, workflow, facility layouts, and operational data to improve efficiency, productivity, and cost performance.
Conduct cost analyses and feasibility studies to support manufacturing improvements and capital investments.
Recommend and implement process improvements that enhance worker efficiency, product quality, workplace safety, and material utilization.
Lead the development and implementation of new manufacturing processes, methods, and production controls.
Design, develop, and improve tooling, fixtures, and manufacturing equipment.
Evaluate production equipment and tooling and recommend repairs, upgrades, replacements, or process enhancements.
Assist with installation, startup, and validation of new manufacturing equipment.
Develop and maintain work instructions, operating procedures, and equipment documentation.
Participate in new product introductions and support Design for Manufacturability initiatives.
Research emerging manufacturing technologies and recommend solutions to improve productivity, quality, safety, and cost performance.
Lead and administer the company's Safety Program and promote a strong 6S culture.
Chair the Safety Committee and oversee First Responder activities.
Investigate safety concerns and implement corrective and preventive actions.
Maintain Safety Data Sheets and ensure compliance with applicable safety requirements.
Partner with plant leadership to promote consistent safety practices across facilities.
Monitor safety performance, identify trends, and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
Communicate and reinforce safety expectations throughout the organization.
Work with production, maintenance, quality, engineering, and leadership teams to identify improvement opportunities.
Present recommendations, project updates, and improvement plans to management.
Train employees on new equipment, processes, and best practices.
Maintain project documentation, engineering records, and improvement reports.
Support strategic initiatives focused on operational excellence, safety, and company growth.