Manufacturing Engineering Manager

The Manufacturing Engineering Manager is responsible for leading the engineering function that supports and improves manufacturing operations. This role oversees process optimization, equipment design and selection, lean implementation, and product manufacturability improvements. The manager will lead a team of engineers and technicians focused on enhancing productivity, reducing costs, ensuring quality, and integrating new technologies and products into manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Manufacturing Process Improvement:

   • Identify and implement process enhancements to improve efficiency, throughput, and quality.

   • Apply Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies to eliminate waste and variability.

2. New Product Introduction (NPI):

   • Lead engineering support for the introduction of new products into production.

   • Ensure smooth transitions from design to manufacturing with scalable and cost-effective processes.

3. Tooling and Equipment:

   • Oversee design, specification, procurement, and commissioning of jigs, fixtures, and machinery.

   • Ensure equipment reliability and compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.

4. Team Leadership & Development:

   • Manage and mentor a team of manufacturing engineers and support staff.

   • Foster a culture of technical excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

5. Standardization and Documentation:

   • Develop and maintain work instructions, process documentation, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

   • Ensure that engineering changes are properly documented and communicated.

6. Cost Reduction & Efficiency:

   • Drive cost-saving initiatives through process redesign, automation, material utilization, and cycle time reduction.

   • Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs).

7. Cross-Functional Collaboration:

   • Partner with Quality, Design, Production, Supply Chain, and Maintenance teams to support overall manufacturing goals.

   • Provide engineering input in troubleshooting, corrective actions, and operational decisions.

8. Compliance & Safety:

   • Ensure adherence to internal quality standards and external regulations (ISO, OSHA, etc.).

   • Support audits and compliance initiatives.

Key Focus Areas:

• Manufacturing Process Optimization

• New Product Launches (NPI)

• Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma Implementation

• Tooling and Automation

• Engineering Change Management

• Cross-Functional Technical Leadership

Required Skills & Competencies:

Technical Proficiency:

• Strong knowledge of manufacturing systems, mechanical processes, and production workflows.

• Skilled in CAD/CAM, PLCs, CNC programming, and ERP systems.

Leadership & Project Management:

• Ability to lead teams, manage projects, and deliver measurable improvements.

• Excellent planning, organization, and communication skills.

Analytical & Problem Solving:

• Expertise in root cause analysis, statistical process control, and failure mode analysis (FMEA).

Continuous Improvement Mindset:

• Deep understanding of Lean principles, value stream mapping, 5S, and Kaizen.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Education:

  • B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing, or Production Engineering (required)

  • M.E./MBA (preferred for leadership and strategic planning)

• Certifications (Preferred):

  • Lean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, PMP, Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)

• Experience:

  • 10–15 years in a manufacturing engineering role, with 3–5 years in a managerial capacity

  • Industry experience in automotive, electronics, heavy engineering, medical devices, or consumer goods is a plus