Sr. Manufacturing Engineer

- Senior

Kalona, IA

Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing

About the position

The Senior Manufacturing Engineer will be a key leader in driving manufacturing excellence across a diverse range of processes including but not limited to injection molding, machining, assembly, extrusion, dipping, welding, and new product development. This role will lead cross-functional teams to execute strategic programs aligned with Operations Leadership priorities, focusing on capacity and capability improvements, cost reduction, quality enhancement, and capital investment. The ideal candidate will possess a broad understanding of manufacturing principles and a proven ability to implement innovative solutions across multiple disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities across injection molding, machining, and high-level disinfection processes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Employ structured problem-solving methodologies to resolve complex manufacturing challenges and eliminate waste.
• Lead initiatives to optimize process parameters, tooling design, and equipment utilization.
• Provide technical leadership in injection molding, utilizing industry best practices and advanced techniques to improve process stability and product consistency.
• Lead injection molding capacity and capability improvements, cost out initiatives, and quality enhancements.
• Lead injection molding related capital investment projects.
• Apply knowledge of machining processes (e.g., CNC milling, turning) to optimize manufacturing workflows and improve part precision.
• Work with machining teams to improve processes and reduce waste.
• Lead machining related capital investment projects.
• Provide technical leadership in coagulant dipping processes and equipment.
• Lead coagulant dipping automation and quality enhancement initiatives.
• Collaborate with design and quality engineering teams to ensure the manufacturability of new products and lead design for manufacturability reviews.
• Contribute to the development of robust manufacturing processes for new product launches.
• Lead and motivate cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives within defined timelines and budgets.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to tool designers, process technicians, operators, and other manufacturing personnel.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.
• Lead capital investment projects related to injection molding and machining equipment.
• Work with vendors to ensure proper equipment specifications and installations.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of manufacturing processes, procedures, and improvements.
• Prepare and present reports on project progress, performance metrics, and improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5+ years in technical injection molding, machining and transfer to production and/or automation, rheology, coagulant dipping experience preferred.
• Project management experience (PMP preferred but not required) and/or Lean Six Sigma Certification.
• 'Hands on' track record applying injection molding fundamentals such as: plastic material processing guidelines, mold design and fabrication, mold processing and optimization, plastic part design best practices, tooling routine and preventative maintenance, injection molding press operation and optimization.
• Demonstrated interpersonal, organizational and time management skills.