Process Engineer

Padnos•Grand Rapids, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Continuous / Process Improvement Engineer solves business problems by identifying and prioritizing opportunities for improvement, primarily in manufacturing and operations, using lean manufacturing principles. The role manages projects and metrics to support execution and communication across the company and to drive process and system changes. This is an in-office position at the Grand Rapids location, required 100% of the time. The engineer identifies ways to improve manufacturing asset and process performance, helps establish a system for documenting and resolving process failures, and works with business unit leaders to define and monitor key performance indicators. The role leads cross-functional improvement projects, applies structured analysis and continuous improvement tools, and develops measures and dashboards to track project outcomes. The position also promotes continuous improvement practices and culture through best-practice sharing, training, communication, and visible leadership. It collaborates with the Operations Team and supports the Operations Manager in advising the executive team on continuous improvement strategy. The role requires the ability to lift 75 pounds.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field.
3–5 years of experience in engineering and continuous improvement.
Proficient computer skills, including SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office.
Experience with conveyance, vision systems, sorting, and segregation.
Ability to influence without authority and guide teams through project completion.
Proficiency in risk and stakeholder management, with a solution-driven mindset.
Process-oriented approach; data-driven problem solving; and basic statistical, process/product, and organizational knowledge.
Ability to make independent decisions and demonstrate initiative in getting work done.
Adaptable communication skills for communicating effectively with all organizational levels.
Ability to lead through influence, navigate change management without direct authority, and build trust.
Ability to manage resources, timelines, priorities, and multiple projects across multiple teams.
Ability to adapt to evolving environments and overcome issues, challenges, and obstacles.
Ability to challenge existing processes and proactively identify new opportunities.
Must work in-office 100% of the time at the Grand Rapids location.
Must be able to lift 75 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Six Sigma Green Belt certification is recommended.

Responsibilities

Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing asset and process performance and business results.
Support development of a system for documenting, prioritizing, and resolving process failures.
Work with business unit leaders to establish key process indicators for operational, labor, and financial performance.
Monitor metrics and processes and coach teams to meet performance expectations.
Help identify project champions and sponsors, and support development of project plans, schedules, budgets, and capital expenditure justifications.
Lead cross-functional teams in data analysis, root-cause identification, and development of sustainable solutions.
Apply continuous improvement tools and techniques, including root cause analysis, process maps, fishbone analysis, and benefit-versus-effort matrices.
Create project performance metrics and dashboards to track achievement of targets.
Participate in recommendations, evaluation, and selection of new products and systems aligned with organizational strategy.
Promote continuous improvement capability and culture through best-practice sharing, advocacy, and visible leadership.
Help develop and implement continuous improvement training programs that embed lean processes in the company.
Collaborate with the Operations Team to communicate regularly with leadership and support engagement throughout the organization.
Support the Operations Manager in advising the executive team on continuous improvement strategy.