Lean Process Engineer

AtriCure - Cincinnati, OH

Full-time - Mid Level

Cincinnati, OH

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About the position

The Lean Process Engineer at AtriCure, Inc. plays a pivotal role in fostering a culture of continuous improvement and lean methodologies within the manufacturing department. This position is essential for optimizing manufacturing processes through the implementation of lean principles and key performance indicators (KPIs). The Lean Process Engineer will lead various continuous improvement initiatives, including value stream mapping (VSM), 5S, and Kaizen events, aimed at identifying and eliminating inefficiencies in production workflows. In this role, the engineer will analyze production data to pinpoint bottlenecks and opportunities for streamlining operations. Acting as a lean champion, the engineer will train and mentor team members on lean concepts and tools, ensuring that the entire department is aligned with the principles of lean manufacturing. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including quality, product development, and regulatory departments, is crucial to address product line issues effectively. The engineer will also be responsible for communicating manufacturing and process issues to both internal teams and external suppliers, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and engaged in the improvement process. The Lean Process Engineer will review proposed component tolerances and provide input on manufacturing capabilities, leveraging their knowledge of various manufacturing processes such as machining, molding, casting, and stamping. A strong understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) is essential for ensuring proper fits between joining parts. Additionally, the engineer will identify Design for Assembly opportunities and understand various assembly techniques, including laser welding and adhesive bonding. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing technologies and efficiency strategies, including Lean, Six Sigma, and Statistical Process Control (SPC). The engineer will work closely with outside suppliers to define and qualify their manufacturing processes, identify new vendors and technologies, and implement cost reduction opportunities. The role also involves performing process capability assessments and maintaining quality statistical models to ensure high standards of production. The Lean Process Engineer will be responsible for developing detailed process qualification strategies, maintaining process maps, and writing detailed process instructions and test protocols. The position demands regular attendance, the ability to work under fast-paced conditions, and the capacity to prioritize tasks effectively while collaborating with others.

Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives, including value stream mapping (VSM), 5S, and Kaizen events.
• Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for streamlining.
• Act as a lean champion to train and mentor others on lean concepts and tools as needed.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to address product line issues.
• Communicate manufacturing and process issues to cross-functional engineering teams and suppliers, both verbally and in written documentation.
• Review proposed component tolerances and provide input to manufacturing capability.
• Understand and apply GD&T to yield the desired fits between joining parts.
• Review proposed device assembly requirements and identify Design for Assembly opportunities.
• Support the product assembly line technical performance and troubleshoot assembly line issues.
• Identify and implement manufacturing and product-related cost reduction opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (mechanical, industrial, or related field) required or demonstrated equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• 3+ years of relevant experience in mechanical and/or process engineering.
• Solid understanding of external standards, design controls, quality controls, and manufacturing methods.
• Demonstrated ability with data analysis, problem-solving, and troubleshooting.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work on and influence cross-functional teams.
• Capable of prioritizing tasks and providing a timely schedule of completion.
• Ability to travel 5%.

Nice-to-haves

• Medical device industry experience.
• Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt).
• Demonstrated lean manufacturing process implementation experience.
• Proficiency in lean tools such as 5S, Kanban, VSM, etc.
• Solid understanding of industry regulations as it pertains to medical devices.

Benefits

• Medical & Dental insurance beginning day 1 of employment.
• 401K plus match.
• 20 days of paid Parental Leave for new moms and dads.
• Volunteer Time off.
• Pet Insurance.
• Access to on-site fitness center and cafeteria.