Lead Manufacturing Engineer
TBEI - Lake Crystal is a cutting-edge manufacturer of Class 3-8 truck bodies and truck and trailer equipment, with an emphasis on municipal and utility applications. With a worldwide distributor network, our products are the first choice for everyone from landscape professionals to the US Military.
As the Lead Manufacturing Engineer at TBEI - Lake Crystal, you will lead our efforts in lean manufacturing, process optimization, and plant layout design to enhance efficiency, quality and customer satisfaction. You will also oversee new capital investment installation projects and mentor a team of manufacturing engineers to ensure alignment with our strategic objectives.
Responsibilities
• Lead and implement lean manufacturing initiatives to drive continuous improvement across all aspects of the production process. Facilitate Kaizen events, value stream mapping, and 5S implementations to eliminate waste, improve workflow efficiency, and optimize resource utilization.
• Analyze existing manufacturing processes to identify opportunities for optimization and efficiency gains. Develop and implement solutions to streamline workflows, reduce cycle times, and enhance product quality while minimizing costs.
• Optimize plant layout and floor space utilization to improve workflow efficiency, material flow, and production capacity. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and implement layout changes that support lean manufacturing principles and operational excellence.
• Manage the justification, execution, and commissioning of new capital investment projects aimed at expanding capacity, upgrading equipment, and improving manufacturing capabilities. Coordinate with vendors, contractors, and internal stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Lead and mentor a manufacturing engineer and jig/fixture manufacturing technician, providing guidance, support, and technical expertise. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning to drive individual and team performance.
• Collaborate with quality assurance teams to ensure compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements. Implement robust quality control measures and drive initiatives to reduce defects and improve product reliability.
• Maintain accurate documentation of processes, procedures, and project plans. Generate regular reports on key performance indicators, project status, and financial metrics to inform decision-making and drive accountability.
• Active member of site leadership team and actively support their decisions.
• Drive a safety first culture and implement process or design improvements to enhance team safety.
• Active participation and daily report out at gemba walks.
Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years experience in manufacturing engineering with a focus on lean manufacturing, process optimization, and project management.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and tools such as Six Sigma, Kaizen, and value stream mapping.
• Proven track record of successfully leading process improvement initiatives and capital investment projects in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with plant layout design, including facility optimization and space utilization.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with attention to detail and a focus on results.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Advanced computer skills with proficiency in SolidWorks, MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint preferred.
Machinery Manufacturing
Engineering and Information Technology
Full-time