Continuous Improvement Process Engineer

AFL is seeking a Continuous Improvement Process Engineer to join our manufacturing team at our Kent, WA facility.

The Continuous Improvement Process Engineer is responsible for the design, stabilization, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes for fiber optic products. This role is responsible for production line performance, leading CI initiatives, and providing oversight of the work performed by process and tooling technicians.

What We Offer:

• Flexible time off policy
• Hybrid work schedule and possible remote to qualifying employees
• 401K Company match (up to 4% - dollar for dollar)
• Professional development, training, and tuition reimbursement programs
• Excellent medical, dental, vision, and life insurance policy options
• Opportunities for career advancement with an industry leading company!

Responsibilities

Process Engineering & Operational Support

• Establish, Maintain and improve production lines for fiber optic products
• Support New Product Introductions in collaboration with R&D and Engineering
• Select, design, and modify tooling, fixtures, and equipment as needed to improve safety, quality, throughput, and productivity objectives
• Develop, standardize, and maintain process and test work instructions
• Design and implement shop floor layouts and workflows
• Perform time studies and line balancing as needed
• Define, measure, and monitor process performance metrics to identify opportunities for product and process improvement
• Subject Matter expert on Manufacturing Process for fiber Optic Manufacturing
• Create and maintain preventive maintenance & calibration routines associated with production equipment

Continuous Improvement & Lean

• Identify, justify, plan, and lead continuous improvement opportunities and capacity expansion projects using Lean Manufacturing tools
• Lead structured problem-solving and root cause analysis
• Plan and execute Kaizen events and improvement activities in partnership with Manufacturing
• Drive visual factory, 5S, waste reduction, and standard work implementation
• Ensure improvements are sustained through documentation, training, and controls

Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise a Process Technician, Tooling Technician and Assembler dedicated to support process engineering activities
• Create & establish training, development, and certification plans for production associates and technicians
• Work with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to execute projects, resolve process & quality issues and introduce new processes, equipment, or methods that enhance manufacturing performance
• Interact with internal customers on technical, EHS and quality topics
• Perform other duties as required

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organization and time-management skills
• Comfortable operating with limited supervision, multi-cultural environment in a fast‑paced manufacturing setting
• Strong interpersonal, influencing, and teamwork skills

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, industrial engineering or equivalent educational experience
• 4 to 6 years of experience with new product introduction, process development, or process engineering
• Knowledge of AutoCAD
• Experience with machine or precision mechanical assembly and test methods
• Experience with shop floor material handling equipment
• Experience leading multiple projects and supervising direct reports
• Knowledge of ISO-9000 based quality systems
• Experience of MRP/ERP systems
• Ability to travel as needed
• Experience with fiber optic assembly and test methods is preferred