Lean Manufacturing Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

The Manufacturing Engineer II – Assembly is responsible for developing, implementing, and continuously improving manufacturing processes that support the safe, efficient, and high-quality assembly of electrical distribution products. This position partners closely with Production, Design Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Operations to improve manufacturing methods, increase productivity, reduce costs, and support new product introductions.

The Manufacturing Engineer II works independently on most assignments, leads process improvement initiatives, develops standardized work, mentors junior engineers and production personnel, and serves as a technical resource for assembly operations.

• Develop, implement, and continuously improve assembly processes to enhance safety, quality, productivity, and efficiency.
• Lead manufacturing improvement projects focused on reducing waste, improving throughput, and lowering production costs.
• Analyze production data to identify process bottlenecks and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain work instructions, assembly procedures, visual work aids, and standard operating procedures.
• Design and implement assembly fixtures, tooling, ergonomic improvements, and manufacturing aids.
• Support new product introductions by developing assembly methods, validating manufacturing processes, and coordinating production readiness.
• Collaborate with Design Engineering to improve product manufacturability and simplify assembly operations.
• Perform root cause analysis on production issues using structured problem-solving methodologies and implement corrective actions.
• Partner with Quality to investigate defects, identify trends, and implement preventive measures.
• Evaluate manufacturing equipment and recommend process improvements or capital equipment investments.
• Support equipment installation, validation, and startup activities.
• Train production personnel on new assembly processes, equipment, and standardized work.
• Mentor Manufacturing Engineer I team members and provide technical guidance to production staff.
• Participate in Lean Manufacturing, 5S, Kaizen, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with company safety policies, quality standards, and ISO procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Strong knowledge of manufacturing and assembly processes.
• Ability to independently troubleshoot and resolve complex manufacturing issues.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, bills of material, and assembly documentation.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to mentor less experienced engineers and production personnel.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Ability to prioritize work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

• Frequently walk throughout manufacturing and warehouse environments.
• Ability to stand for extended periods while supporting production activities.
• Occasionally lift up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Occasionally bend, reach, climb, or work around manufacturing equipment.

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• 3–6 years of manufacturing engineering experience in an assembly or manufacturing environment.
• Experience supporting high-mix, low-volume manufacturing operations.
• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with root cause analysis and process optimization.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to independently manage multiple engineering projects.

• Experience in electrical distribution equipment, switchgear, power distribution, or industrial equipment manufacturing.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems.
• Experience with CAD software such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD.
• Familiarity with PFMEA, Control Plans, and process validation.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 quality management systems.