Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Westfall Technik•Union City, CA

16d•Onsite

About The Position

The Manufacturing Engineering Manager will oversee and optimize the day-to-day leveling up and standardization of manufacturing technologies and effective equipment utilization through the site. This role is responsible for ensuring equipment and process suitability to customer requirements and expectations, manufacturing process reliability, product quality, production efficiency, and the safety of personnel. Reporting to this Manufacturing Engineering Manager position will be our recently hired Automation Engineer. The hiring of this position will promote faster and more successful product launches and transfers into a series production state.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
5+ years of experience in a manufacturing engineering role, with a strong focus on process optimization, product development, and operational improvement.
Proven experience with process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen).
Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, including machining, injection molding, stamping, or assembly.
Proficient in CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar) and manufacturing simulation tools.
Familiarity with PLCs, CNC machines, robotic systems, and automation technologies.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.).
Experience with data analysis and reporting tools (e.g., Minitab, Tableau, or similar).
Effectively coordinates with teams across production, quality, maintenance, and engineering to drive alignment and problem resolution.
Clearly presents production metrics and processes performance using visual tools (charts, graphs, dashboards) to support decision making.
Skilled in utilizing and navigating ERP systems (Epicor) and MES system to monitor production schedules, material flow, and performance data.
Uses analytical tools (e.g., 5 whys, fishbone, Pareto) and data interpretation to identify process inefficiencies and recommend corrective actions.
Ability to work well with others, one on one, remote, via video and phone.
Ability to work independently

Nice To Haves

Experience in a fast-paced, high-precision manufacturing environment is preferred.

Responsibilities

Design, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and increase product quality.
Conduct detailed analyses of existing production processes and identify opportunities for improvement.
Develop and implement process controls, operating procedures, and best practices for all aspects of production.
Analyze production data and implement strategies to reduce cycle times, labor costs, and material waste.
Work with finance and operations teams to identify cost-saving initiatives and develop action plans to meet cost reduction goals.
Use Lean manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping) to streamline workflows and reduce inefficiencies.
Support the introduction of new products into manufacturing, ensuring that processes are scalable and efficient.
Collaborate with design and engineering teams to assess manufacturability and ensure that designs are optimized for production.
Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for new product lines and ensure that staff are trained in new processes.
Evaluate and select manufacturing equipment, tools, and technologies to improve production capabilities and align with operational needs.
Work with maintenance and production teams to ensure the proper installation, calibration, and troubleshooting of equipment.
Ensure that manufacturing processes meet required quality standards by collaborating with the Quality Control (QC) department.
Develop and implement process validation and control plans to maintain product consistency and quality.
Ensure all manufacturing processes comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards (e.g., ISO, OSHA, environmental regulations).
Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers, operators, and production staff.
Collaborate with production teams to resolve technical issues and ensure smooth daily operations.
Lead cross-functional teams for process improvement projects and support ongoing production initiatives.
Analyze production performance metrics (e.g., Over all Equipment Effectiveness, throughput, downtime, defect rates) and prepare detailed reports for management review.
Utilize data-driven insights to propose and implement improvements across all aspects of the manufacturing process.
Maintain accurate records of process changes, improvements, and engineering decisions.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives by implementing best practices, adopting new technologies, and exploring innovative solutions.
Participate in or lead Kaizen events, root cause analysis, and corrective action initiatives to address process issues or defects.
Keep abreast of industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices to ensure that manufacturing operations remain at the forefront of innovation.
Ensure adherence to all safety protocols in manufacturing processes and work environments.
Promote and enforce safety practices to ensure the well-being of all employees.
Implement sustainable practices, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, and sustainable material sourcing.
Take on additional responsibilities as needed to support the team and meet operational priorities.