Manufacturing Engineer - Oak Steel

About the role

HNI Corporation is a global family of brands for the workplace and home dedicated to enhancing the spaces where we live, work, and gather. We are looking for a Manufacturing Engineer to join our HNI Workplace Furnishings - Operations team. In this role, you will provide hands-on engineering support to manufacturing operations, improving production processes, equipment, and workflow to enhance Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost performance. You will apply Lean manufacturing, structured problem-solving, and automation technologies to drive continuous improvement and support new product launches.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop manufacturing processes, production flow, assembly methods, and fabrication equipment to meet product specifications and quality standards.
• Provide technical support for day-to-day production challenges using Lean problem-solving and root-cause analysis.
• Identify and implement process improvements that improve Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost, including opportunities to improve productivity, quality, and material utilization.
• Lead and support robotics, automation, and manufacturing technology initiatives that improve safety, productivity, quality, and labor efficiency.
• Partner with Product Development to influence product design for manufacturability, operational efficiency, and cost optimization.
• Lead and support new product launches, process development, and cross-functional improvement projects.
• Analyze manufacturing data to identify trends, root causes, and opportunities for corrective action and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Maintenance, and Product Development teams while communicating project updates, technical findings, and recommendations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical engineering field.
• Experience with manufacturing processes, process improvement, or engineering in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience applying Lean manufacturing and structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Experience leading or participating in cross-functional projects from planning through implementation.
• Experience or interest in robotics, automation, and manufacturing technologies is preferred.

Skills

• Problem Solving – Uses data, root-cause analysis, and structured methodologies to solve manufacturing challenges.
• Continuous Improvement – Identifies opportunities to eliminate waste and improve process performance through Lean principles such as RCI, MDI, 5S, and Standard Work.
• Technical Expertise – Applies engineering knowledge to manufacturing processes, fabrication, equipment, and automation.
• Influence & Collaboration – Builds strong partnerships and influences stakeholders across Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Engineering.
• Project Leadership – Manages timelines, coordinates resources, and drives projects through successful implementation.
• Innovation – Develops practical solutions and explores automation and technology to improve manufacturing performance.
• Communication – Clearly communicates technical findings, recommendations, and project progress to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Benefits

Benefits start from Day 1. For more details, visit www.HNIbenefits.com.