Manufacturing Engineering Manager Jobs in Appleton, WI

Job Description:

We are seeking a driven and collaborative Manufacturing Engineer to join our team. This role is ideal for a positive, solutions-focused professional who thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic manufacturing environment. The Manufacturing Engineer will act as a culture leader and influencer, supporting continuous improvement, developing teams, and fostering an engaged and safe workplace.

This individual will be responsible for driving improvements across safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and cost savings. They will play a key role in process optimization, project execution, and equipment/tooling procurement, while collaborating closely with cross-functional teams.

Essential Functions

• Recommend, develop, and implement improvements to existing processes to reduce cost, risk, and waste while improving quality, efficiency, and throughput.

• Lead and fully own engineering projects, working collaboratively with internal teams and external contractors.

• Design, maintain, and improve facility and manufacturing layouts to optimize workflow and space utilization.

• Develop, implement, and sustain standardized work, process documentation, and work instructions.

• Analyze problems, identify root causes, and implement effective corrective/preventive actions.

• Partner with production and leadership teams to champion safety-related initiatives and ensure compliance with company and regulatory standards.

• Lead and support initiatives in safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and cost savings through continuous improvement methods.

• Justify, source, and procure capital equipment and tooling to support existing and new processes.

• Manage relationships with external contractors and internal maintenance resources.

• Provide training and technical support to production staff and promote skill development.

• Communicate project status effectively, including progress, barriers, and recommended solutions.

• Stay current with industry trends, new technologies, and manufacturing best practices to proactively identify opportunities for innovation.
   

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Technology, or related field.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a proven record of driving results.

• Solid organizational skills with the ability to prioritize competing demands.

• Demonstrated initiative, accountability, and follow-through.

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively across all organizational levels.

• Computer proficiency: Microsoft Office, with experience in SolidWorks and/or AutoCAD highly desirable.

• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to understand complex systems and processes.
   

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of engineering experience in a manufacturing setting, internship experience included.

• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.

• Knowledge of statistical process control (SPC), failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), and root cause analysis.

• Familiarity with ERP systems for manufacturing planning and execution.

• Demonstrated success in leading cross-functional teams.

• Exposure to capital project management and vendor negotiations.
   

Key Attributes for Success

• Positive and approachable demeanor; fosters trust and collaboration.

• Strong decision-making skills under pressure.

• Passion for continuous improvement and innovation.

• Ability to influence and inspire others while driving accountability.

Why ITW Welding?

At ITW Welding, we’re not just a place to work – we’re a community that empowers you to grow and make a real impact. Join us and build a career that makes a difference!

Here are some benefits we offer to help you build the future you want:

• Generous Retirement Benefits – 401(k) match PLUS an additional retirement contribution to help you plan for the future.

• Paid Time Off – 11 paid holidays, 5 sick days, and vacation time to take time for what matters.

• Company-Paid Insurance – Life, AD&D, Short-Term &Long-Term Disability insurance to give you peace of mind.

• Family-Friendly Benefits – 4 weeks of paid parental leave and adoption reimbursement to support your family journey.

• Education Assistance – tuition reimbursement, because we believe in investing in your personal and professional development.
   

Company Description:

Comprised of a market-leading portfolio of best-in-class brands, the businesses of ITW Welding work together to provide premium performance delivered through a breadth of solutions encompassing welding, cutting, consumables, and accessories. ITW Welding North America represents Miller Electric Welding Equipment, Safety & Accessories, Hobart Filler Metals, and Bernard / Tregaskiss MIG Guns.

Miller Electric Mfg. LLC, is headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, and wholly owned by Illinois Tool Works (NYSE: ITW).  The company maintains its industry leadership by setting the standard for reliability, quality and responsiveness. Our tagline, “The Power of Blue®,” is inspired by the blue color of Miller equipment. The company began with an innovation that responded to customer needs, growing from a one-man operation in 1929, to the world’s largest manufacturer of arc welding products.  Miller keeps the tradition alive by focusing on its top priority: people.

Additional Information:

ITW Welding is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential. 

As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.  

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential. 

As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.