Lead Manufacturing Engineer

JOB SUMMARY: We are seeking an experienced Lead Manufacturing Engineer to lead continuous improvement initiatives across metal fabrication, vehicle assembly, and finishing operations. This role is hands-on and shop-floor-focused, responsible for identifying inefficiencies, eliminating overprocessing, improving flow, and supporting a small team in a fast-paced, evolving manufacturing environment.

The ideal candidate has a background in metal fabrication, wet automotive coatings, and assembly, and applies Lean / 6S principles to drive measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.

SALARY: $90,000 – $110,000

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Continuous Improvement & Lean Initiatives

• Lead and execute continuous improvement projects across fabrication, paint, and assembly operations.
• Identify and eliminate waste, over-processing, rework, and inefficiencies in manufacturing processes and workflows.
• Apply Lean manufacturing tools, including value stream mapping, standard work, visual controls, and poka-yoke.
• Champion, implement, and sustain 6S principles on the shop floor.
• Facilitate Kaizen events, structured problem-solving sessions, and cross-functional improvement initiatives.

Process Development & Manufacturing Support

• Develop, document, and continuously improve manufacturing processes, work instructions, and standard operating procedures.
• Provide technical and process support for metal fabrication operations, including laser cutting, forming, welding, and material handling.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and support a small team of engineers, technicians, or continuous improvement specialists.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain teams to align improvement initiatives with operational objectives.

ADDITIONAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Assist with SolidWorks Models/drawings and Bill of Materials
• Assist with and troubleshoot Trumpf CNC programs for laser and press brakes.
• Track and report improvements related to cycle time, throughput, scrap, rework, and labor efficiency
• Understand and comply with safety and environmental policies
• Maintain confidentiality and observe data protection and associated guidelines where appropriate
• Adhere to company policies
• Other duties as assigned

INTERACTION WITH:

• Most departments, including but not limited to Design Engineering, Production, Facilities, and Quality
• Equipment vendors

EXPERIENCE:

• Ten (10) years of Manufacturing Engineering required
• Five (5) years of relevant experience preferred
• Strong CNC Laser, welding, metal forming, and assembly experience
• Overhead cranes and forklifts
• Work as a team with Engineering, Operations, Sales & Marketing, and Finance
• SolidWorks and CAD software skills and experience a plus
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Fixture, work holding, tool, and gauge design and manufacture
• DFMEA experience.
• Capital equipment selection and justification
• Visual Management, Day by Hour charts, kaizen, setting up Kanban replenishment, and Cell/Value Stream layout

EDUCATION:

• College education or Trade school required
• Degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Technology, or Industrial Engineering preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Positive Attitude
• Excellent listening skills
• Ability to follow directions
• Ability to maintain focus
• Meet deadlines
• Math skills required (add, subtract, divide, and multiply)
• Reading abilities required
• Ability to write
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Follow safety and materials policies and procedures
• Attention to detail
• Work as a member of a team and as an individual

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to pass a physical exam
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs.
• Ability to exert maximum force to pull and carry objects
• Extended periods of sitting, standing, bending, squatting, and kneeling
• Must be able to climb into, onto, and under the vehicle
• Vision of a minimum 20/40 with or without corrective lenses
• Good hearing

SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:

• Lenco Industries supports and complies with all Federal and State Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) requirements. All employees are required to comply with and participate in all Lenco Industries’ EHS programs. Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Working safely is a precondition of employment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Heated and well-ventilated factory with bright lighting and epoxied floors
• Team Environment
• The work environment characteristics are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.