Guided Search Partners (GSP)Guided Search Partners is an Executive Search firm built on Trust, Transparency, Specialization, and Long-term Relationships. We connect high-performing professionals with organizations that value people, performance, and growth—helping leaders find roles where they can make an impact and build meaningful careers.About the OpportunityWe're partnering with a global supplier serving Automotive OEM customers with Tier 1 injection molded, painted exterior components. This newly created Manufacturing Engineer role exists to support a state-of-the-art paint line in Tennessee.This is a great fit for a manufacturing engineer who loves turning data into action—tracking performance, digging into defects, and running structured problem‑solving to improve quality and uptime. Paint experience is a plus, not a requirement. Automotive experience is helpful, but not mandatory.What You'll DoTrack and report paint line KPIs and prepare daily updates for morning meetings.Analyze scrap and defect trends (top defects), run root cause, and drive corrective actions.Lead PDCA cycles and use structured methods (DMAIC/8D/Red X/Six Sigma tools) to eliminate chronic issues.Monitor downtime and deliver actionable insights to improve performance.Improve data accuracy by identifying gaps in entry/reporting and standardizing the process.Support production labeling processes and training to protect inventory accuracy.Partner cross-functionally (including a Defect Analyst) to reduce risk and improve quality.Help implement automated, real‑time data collection for the paint line.Who You AreA true manufacturing engineer—hands‑on, analytical, and comfortable in a production environment.Strong in root cause and corrective action; you don't stop at symptoms.Clear communicator who can translate data into priorities and follow‑through.Continuous improvement minded and energized by building something new.Preferred Experience & AttributesExperience with data management/reporting and KPI tracking in manufacturing.Experience using problem‑solving methodologies (DMAIC, 8D, Red X, Six Sigma tools; Black Belt is a plus).Knowledge of lean/continuous improvement.Bachelor's degree in engineering (preferred).Automotive, paint line, and/or automation software experience (nice to have).Why This Role MattersThis role is central to making the new paint line perform at a high level—reducing defects, improving uptime, and driving daily execution through data and disciplined problem‑solving. You'll work closely with the Paint Department Manager and influence results quickly.#J-18808-Ljbffr