Manufacturing Engineer - Automated Assembly

About the role

The Manufacturing Engineer - Automated Assembly is responsible for optimizing and sustaining automated, high-throughput assembly processes. This role focuses on maximizing equipment efficiency, yield, and product quality while supporting continuous improvement initiatives in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities

• Optimize cycle time, throughput, and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).
• Perform line balancing, time studies, and capacity analysis.
• Develop preventive maintenance strategies in collaboration with maintenance teams.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and process-related issues to minimize downtime.
• Implement process controls (SPC, poka-yoke, error-proofing).
• Lead root cause analysis (RCA) for defects and implement corrective/preventive actions.
• Support PFMEA, control plans, and validation (IQ/OQ/PQ).
• Drive Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives.
• Reduce waste, scrap, and cycle inefficiencies.
• Lead Kaizen events and cost-reduction projects.
• Develop process documentation, work instructions, and training materials.
• Support pilot builds and production ramp-up.
• Analyze production data to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
• Monitor KPIs such as yield, uptime, cycle time, and scrap rates.
• Implement digital manufacturing tools and MES integration where applicable.
• Work with Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Production teams.
• Interface with external suppliers and equipment integrators.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years of manufacturing industry experience in high-speed automated assembly (e.g., SMT, medical devices, electronics, automotive, defense/aerospace, pharmaceutical, or consumer products).
• Hands-on experience with automation systems (Vision / Cognex), robotics, and PLC-controlled equipment.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma (Green Belt preferred).
• Experience with PFMEA, control plans, and validation methods.
• Familiarity with servo motion control and sensors.
• Must have experience troubleshooting and fixing mechanical systems (e.g., gear boxes, PLCs) and system-related issues (e.g., line PC shutdowns).
• Experience reading schematics and drawings.
• Proficiency in CAD tools and manufacturing analysis software.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume production environment.
• Effective communication (verbal and written), interpersonal, cross-functional collaboration, and organizational skills.

Work Environment

• Clean Room Manufacturing Environment
• High-volume manufacturing floor with automated assembly lines
• Exposure to fast-moving machinery and robotics
• May require occasional travel for equipment sourcing or vendor support