Manufacturing Engineering and Automation Manager
About The Position
The Manufacturing Engineering and Automation Manager in Decatur, Illinois, leads manufacturing engineering capability across assembly, fabrication, and machining processing. Working closely with operations and product leaders, the manager aligns automated manufacturing systems, processes, and product engineering with shared product-group objectives while building a high-performing engineering organization. This on-site leadership role focuses on improving manufacturing methods, equipment, systems, and operating infrastructure to deliver safety, quality, velocity, and cost results. The position supports New Product Introduction (NPI) readiness and execution, including smooth product launches and manufacturing scalability, and drives advanced automation in welding, painting, assembly, and material handling operations. Travel is up to 10%; relocation assistance is available, and visa sponsorship is not available. A degree or equivalent experience is desired.
Requirements
- Extensive experience leading lean adoption, work-cell design, layout optimization, and performance measurement.
- Deep understanding of assembly and manufacturing processes, best practices, and standardization.
- Expertise in manufacturing equipment selection, qualification, integration, and infrastructure changes.
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional problem solving using data-driven approaches.
- A degree or equivalent experience is desired.
Responsibilities
- Design and deploy automation systems.
- Support New Product Introduction activities by ensuring manufacturing readiness, process capability, tooling availability, and launch execution.
- Lead hiring, performance management, coaching, and development of manufacturing engineering teams supporting plant operations.
- Direct manufacturing engineering scope across assembly and manufacturing processing, cost estimating, systems planning, plant layout, standards, gaging/checking equipment, tooling, and work standards.
- Manage the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of operating methods, equipment, systems, and manufacturing infrastructure.
- Drive adoption and sustainment of lean manufacturing principles across the organization.
- Lead capacity planning by translating demand signals into short-term production and resource requirements.
- Champion structured problem solving for complex manufacturing, process, and equipment issues.
- Deploy advanced automation across welding, painting, assembly, and material handling operations.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits
- Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and volunteer time
- 401(k) savings plans
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
- Health Lifestyle Programs
- Employee Assistance Program
- Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts
- Career Development
- Incentive bonus
- Disability benefits
- Life Insurance
- Parental leave
- Adoption benefits
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Relocation assistance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
Education Level
No Education Listed
