Position: Manufacturing Engineer
Location: Santa Ana, CA
Department: Production
Reports To: Operations Manager
Classification: Exempt
Shift: Monday–Friday, Day Shift
Compensation: $90,000-100,000 per year
Now Hiring: Manufacturing Engineer
FLAG's mission is to show our contractors & clients the best this industry can offer by upholding our principles of leadership, service, and exceptionalism.
A confidential manufacturing company is seeking a highly motivated Manufacturing Engineer to support and improve manufacturing operations through process optimization, production planning, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role works cross-functionally with Production, Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain to develop efficient manufacturing processes that maximize productivity, quality, and safety.
1. Job Summary
The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for planning, developing, and improving manufacturing processes to support efficient production operations. This position analyzes workflows, equipment, labor utilization, and production methods to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
The ideal candidate is analytical, detail-oriented, and experienced in manufacturing process improvement. Success in this role requires strong problem-solving skills, collaboration across departments, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
2. Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Manufacturing Process Improvement
- Develop, evaluate, and continuously improve manufacturing methods and production processes.
- Analyze manufacturing workflows and recommend process improvements that increase efficiency and reduce waste.
- Design and optimize production layouts, equipment placement, and workspace utilization.
- Support lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
Production Engineering
- Evaluate manufacturing capabilities and develop efficient production methods.
- Estimate production times, labor requirements, and manufacturing costs to support operational planning.
- Collaborate with Engineering and Production teams to improve manufacturability of products.
- Assist in developing tooling, fixtures, and process improvements to support production goals.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with Engineering, Production, Quality, Planning, and Operations to resolve manufacturing challenges.
- Confer with vendors regarding equipment, materials, and product specifications.
- Evaluate materials, equipment, and supplier capabilities to support production requirements.
- Provide technical support for production issues and process improvements.
Analysis & Reporting
- Analyze production data and apply statistical methods to improve manufacturing performance.
- Monitor production metrics and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, and throughput.
- Prepare reports and recommendations for management regarding manufacturing performance.
- Support implementation of best practices throughout manufacturing operations.
3. Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
- Experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and production systems.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred
- Experience with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Knowledge of manufacturing layouts, workflow optimization, and process design.
- Experience with production planning, labor analysis, and cost estimation.
- Bilingual English/Spanish communication skills.
- Experience with ERP or manufacturing software systems.
4. Physical Requirements
- Prolonged periods of sitting while working at a computer.
- Frequent standing and walking throughout the manufacturing facility.
- Occasional bending, reaching, and lifting up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to safely work in a manufacturing environment while wearing required personal protective equipment.
5. Working Conditions
- Manufacturing and office environment.
- Frequent interaction with production personnel and manufacturing equipment.
- Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, steel-toed shoes, and gloves as required.
- Compliance with all company safety procedures, quality standards, and training requirements.