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Sears Seating

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Sears Seating, Davenport, IA, United States


FUNCTION

The Manufacturing Engineering Manager leads the entire manufacturing engineering function and is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day and long-term project activities of a staff of engineers and technicians, manage the engineering aspects of the manufacturing process, assess, evaluate and implement equipment technology, develop and maintain data and systems and improve processes that drive efficient, consistent, cost-effective production of current and future products while meeting all financial and schedule objectives and required safety and quality standards. Develops long-term strategies for improving efficiency and capacity, implements cutting-edge technologies and process innovations and plays a key role in the company’s manufacturing strategy.

The Manufacturing Engineering Manager exerts leadership on a large scale, strategic vision, expert-level technical skills, and has the ability to influence high-level decisions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities as management may deem necessary from time to time.

Leadership & Team Management:

  • Lead, mentor, and manage a team of manufacturing engineers.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement and learning to stay updated on industry trends and ensure that engineering solutions align with business goals.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, union reps, maintenance, quality, material flow, production planning, design engineering, and supply chain, to achieve manufacturing goals.
  • Perform administrative duties related to performance management, training, and development of direct reports to maintain core competencies, expose to new technologies and methodologies, and build new capabilities in personnel.

Technical Expertise, Process Improvement & Optimization:

  • Develop and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
  • Analyze and resolve production bottlenecks by optimizing workflow, materials, and resources.
  • Ensure processes comply with safety and regulatory standards (e.g., ISO, OSHA).
  • Oversee production layouts, automation, new product introductions and optimize manufacturing operations to increase productivity and reduce costs.
  • Provide technical guidance on manufacturing processes, equipment, and tooling.
  • Lead initiatives related to automation, robotics, and smart manufacturing technologies.
  • Mixed model manufacturing design principles (Line/Process Design and material flow)
  • Design for manufacturing, Virtual & Concurrent Engineering
  • Strategic vision for core competencies, product and process fit, out-in sourcing and factory master plans.

Data Analysis & Reporting:

  • Use data-driven methods to monitor performance metrics such as cycle time, yield, and equipment/people efficiency.
  • Generate reports for senior management outlining engineering activities, process improvements, and project progress.

Project Management:

  • Oversee the planning, budgeting, and execution of manufacturing projects.
  • Coordinate with external vendors and internal teams for new equipment installation, automation projects, or plant upgrades. Capital budget.
  • Track project timelines, milestones, and ensure timely delivery of engineering solutions.

Quality Assurance & Compliance:

  • Collaborate with the quality team to ensure all engineering designs and manufacturing processes meet product specifications and quality standards.
  • Implement root cause analysis and corrective actions for quality and process issues.

Cost Control & Budgeting:

  • Manage the engineering department's budget, controlling costs for equipment, materials, and labor.
  • Identify opportunities for cost savings through process improvements, equipment optimization, and waste reduction.