LifeMade - Engineer, Manufacturing

Position Summary

Responsible for optimizing current manufacturing processes to eliminate labor waste, reduce cycle times, and improve overall line efficiency.

Primary Functions

• Analyzes current manufacturing processes to identify and eliminate labor waste, reduce cycle times, and improve overall line efficiency.
• Conducts structured time studies to establish and maintain standard labor requirements by production line.
• Develops line staffing models, crewing requirements, and standardized work based on time study data.
• Leads line balancing activities to optimize operator utilization and reduce cycle times.
• Evaluates and optimizes plant, line, and workstation layouts to improve material flow and reduce handling, travel, and motion waste.
• Establishes and maintains work instructions and standard operating procedures for current processes.
• Analyzes production data, including OEE, labor efficiency, and downtime, and implements corrective actions to drive measurable improvement.
• Recommends and implements automation and material handling solutions to improve productivity and reduce labor costs.
• Conducts root cause analysis using problem-solving methodologies such as 5 Why, Fishbone, and DMAIC.
• Partners with Process Engineering on process changes affecting labor content, cycle times, or line configuration; molding defect resolution is owned by Process Engineering.
• Drives continuous improvement through Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen events focused on labor productivity and waste elimination.
• Maintains compliance with customer requirements, quality standards, and safety regulations.
• Performs such individual assignments as management may direct.

Key Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Three or more years of experience in high-volume manufacturing.
• Demonstrated experience conducting time studies and establishing labor standards.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles, standardized work, and line balancing.
• Experience with facility, line, and workstation layout development.
• Proficiency in analyzing production data and translating findings into measurable improvements.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent communication and project management skills.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with time study and labor standards systems (for example MODAPTS or MOST).
• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
• Experience with AutoCAD or similar layout software.
• Familiarity with automation, robotics, and material handling systems.
• Experience with ERP and MES systems.
• Plastic injection molding or extrusion manufacturing experience.