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Lead Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Lead Manufacturing Engineer information

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$41K

$93.2K

$144.7K

How much do lead manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead manufacturing engineer in Michigan is $93,161.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,300.00 and $102,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lead manufacturing engineer do?

A Lead Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for overseeing and optimizing production processes within a manufacturing facility. They lead a team of engineers and technicians to improve efficiency, ensure product quality, and implement cost-saving measures. Their duties often include designing manufacturing systems, troubleshooting issues, coordinating with other departments, and ensuring compliance with safety and industry standards. By leveraging their technical expertise and leadership skills, they help drive continuous improvement in manufacturing operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead manufacturing engineer?

To thrive as a Lead Manufacturing Engineer, you need a strong background in manufacturing processes, problem-solving, and engineering principles, usually supported by a degree in mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing engineering. Proficiency with CAD software, lean manufacturing systems, Six Sigma methodologies, and ERP/MES platforms is typically required, and certifications such as Six Sigma Black Belt can be advantageous. Leadership, effective communication, and project management are essential soft skills for coordinating teams and driving continuous improvement. These skills and qualities are crucial for optimizing production efficiency, ensuring quality, and leading successful engineering projects within a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges lead manufacturing engineers face when introducing new processes on the production floor?

Lead Manufacturing Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring seamless integration of new technologies or processes with existing equipment, minimizing downtime during transitions, and gaining buy-in from production staff. They must carefully coordinate with cross-functional teams, including quality assurance and maintenance, to troubleshoot unforeseen issues and maintain product standards. Effective communication, comprehensive training, and continuous monitoring are key to overcoming these obstacles and achieving successful implementation.

What is the difference between Lead Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectLead Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees manufacturing processes, leads teams, implements improvementsDesigns and develops manufacturing processes, supports production
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, experience in manufacturing, leadership skillsBachelor's in Engineering, process knowledge, technical skills
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in production facilities, cross-functional teamsOperational settings, production lines, process development
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing plants, automotive, aerospaceWidespread in manufacturing sectors, electronics, consumer goods

The main difference is that a Lead Manufacturing Engineer typically manages teams and oversees process improvements, while a Manufacturing Engineer focuses on designing and supporting manufacturing processes. The lead role involves more leadership and strategic planning, whereas the manufacturing engineer is more technical and hands-on in process development.

Infographic showing various Lead Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,161 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Aerospace Manufacturing Engineer

Neshent Technologies

Ferndale, MI โ€ข On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

We are seeking an experienced Aerospace Manufacturing Engineer to support manufacturing process development, production optimization, tooling design, and continuous improvement initiatives for aerospace and defense programs. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in manufacturing engineering, process documentation, lean manufacturing, CAD design, and aerospace quality standards.

Key Responsibilities
  • Document current manufacturing processes and develop detailed shop-floor work instructions.
  • Create and maintain Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA).
  • Design new tooling and perform reverse engineering of legacy components.
  • Develop shop aid drawings, tooling documentation, and manufacturing work instructions.
  • Update manufacturing routings, work orders, and production documentation in ERP/MES systems.
  • Analyze and optimize TAKT time, cycle time, and manufacturing workflows.
  • Perform Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and implement Lean Manufacturing improvements.
  • Improve production cell layouts, identify bottlenecks, and optimize shop-floor efficiency.
  • Develop and maintain Acceptance Test Procedures (ATP) and support first article inspections.
  • Define packaging specifications for purchased components.
  • Support manufacturing engineering activities during engineering, manufacturing, and quality release processes.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Design Engineering, Quality, Production, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing Operations.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, productivity, cost reduction, and operational excellence.
Required Skills & Qualifications
  • 7โ€“10 years of manufacturing or production engineering experience, preferably in aerospace or precision manufacturing.
  • Minimum 5 years of Aerospace & Defense industry experience.
  • Strong expertise in 2D drafting and 3D CAD (SOLIDWORKS, CATIA, Creo, Siemens NX, Altium, or equivalent).
  • Hands-on experience with GD&T, tooling design, and engineering drawings.
  • Experience developing PFMEA, manufacturing routings, work instructions, and shop-floor documentation.
  • Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing methodologies including:
    • Value Stream Mapping (VSM)
    • TAKT Time Analysis
    • Cycle Time Optimization
    • Cell Layout Improvements
  • Experience with ERP/MES manufacturing systems.
  • Familiarity with tooling maintenance planning and reverse engineering.
  • Knowledge of Acceptance Test Procedures (ATP) and First Article Inspection (FAI).
  • Understanding of AS9100 aerospace quality standards.
  • Experience supporting integrated mechanical, electrical, and software systems.
  • Knowledge of composite materials, bonding processes, and UAV programs is a plus.
  • Exposure to 3D scanning and reverse engineering technologies is preferred.
  • Experience with Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and manufacturing cost reduction initiatives.
  • Exposure to Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is desirable.
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent continuous improvement certification is preferred.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with aerospace manufacturing, defense systems, or precision engineering.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in both independent and collaborative environments.
  • Experience working with global engineering teams across multiple time zones.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
  • Proven ability to lead manufacturing improvement initiatives and drive operational excellence.