Permanent Ran Optimization Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Who we are:

The most complete lifting company in the world, Lanco represents four iconic, world-class heavy equipment manufacturers, mobile crane dealerships across US and Canada, the largest parts and service network in North America, and factory-authorized technician training. In this role, you will support Mi-Jack Products, Inc. Established in 1954, Mi-Jack Products is recognized as an industry leader and innovator in Travelift and Translift Rubber Tired Gantry crane manufacturing, sales, service, and support. Mi-Jack is also the industry leader in providing maintenance services, inspections, repairs and parts for the railroad, port and industrial equipment end-users. By designing and engineering maintainable solutions that can integrate into daily operations without missing a beat, we provide our customers with reliable, safe, and efficient solutions. From the engineering department to the manufacturing floor, we are committed to providing a superior product and an unsurpassed customer experience.

https://www.thelancogroup.com/our_services/material-handling/

https://www.mi-jack.com

Position Overview:

The Supplier Quality Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring the quality and reliability of products sourced by Lanco’s Industrial Equipment Manufacturing (IEM) operations. This position is responsible for managing supplier performance metrics, driving continuous improvement through corrective action processes, and leading audits to assess supplier capabilities. This position will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams and suppliers to address quality issues, support new product development, and implement technical improvements. This role requires a strong foundation in engineering principles, problem-solving, and effective communication to promote consistency, compliance, and operational excellence across all IEM locations.

Essential Functions:

• Supplier Quality Metrics: Develop, manage, and report key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor supplier quality performance. Use data-driven analysis to identify trends, evaluate supplier effectiveness, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Corrective Action Management: Lead the issuance and resolution of Supplier Corrective Action Reports (SCARs). Conduct root cause analyses, define containment plans, and implement both interim and permanent corrective actions to prevent recurrence of quality issues.
• Root Cause Analysis & Problem Solving: Perform in-depth investigations of supplier-related quality problems using tools such as 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, and Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA). Validate solutions through follow-up audits and performance tracking.
• Supplier Audits & Qualification: Plan and execute supplier audits and evaluations to ensure compliance with Lanco’s sourcing standards and quality system requirements. Assess supplier capabilities in processes such as machining, welding, casting, and assembly.
• Design Collaboration & Specification Review: Partner with engineering and suppliers during product design phases to ensure technical specifications are achievable and optimized for manufacturability, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Continuous Improvement Projects: Independently lead at least one annual supplier quality improvement project using Six Sigma, Lean, or similar methodologies. Present findings and outcomes to cross-functional leadership.
• Cross-Site Quality Support: Provide supplier quality engineering support across all Industrial Equipment Manufacturing (IEM) sites. Prioritize workload based on urgency, production schedules, and organizational impact.
• Cross-Functional Communication: Serve as a liaison between suppliers and internal departments (Engineering, Purchasing, Production) to elevate awareness of supplier quality issues, coordinate resources, and align expectations.
• Compliance & Safety: Ensure supplier processes align with regulatory requirements and internal company policies, including ISO 9001 standards. Promote environmental responsibility and safe working practices within the supply chain.
• Team Collaboration & Best Practice Sharing: Contribute to the broader IEM Quality Team by sharing lessons learned, standardizing processes, and supporting continuous alignment across facilities.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Ensure compliance in all safety, health, and environmental regulations, policies, and procedures for a goal of zero incidents and injuries
• Communicate consistently on all activities to appropriate individuals (both internal and external)
• Maintain ongoing communication and adhere to all Companywide policies to eliminate and/or reduce exposure to liability
• Special projects or work as assigned

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

What we are looking for:

• Self-motivated and analytical, with the ability to work independently while collaborating across teams.
• Experienced in supplier quality management, including audits, corrective actions, and performance tracking using KPIs.
• Skilled in root cause analysis, quality systems (ISO 9001), and interpreting technical drawings with GD&T.
• Knowledgeable in manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, and assembly, with the ability to assess and improve supplier capabilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and familiar with ERP systems for quality documentation and data analysis.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, engineering technology, or a related field
• 3-5 years of applicable work experience
• Understanding of the concept, implementation, and the associated practices of ISO9001 (auditing experience preferred)
• Six-sigma training/certification preferred

Physical and Environmental Elements:

• This is primarily an office classification and employees work in an office with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. May work offsite in various environments; travel will be required.

Travel Required:

• ~50% Domestic and minimal International travel as needed

Compensation/Benefits:

We foster a collaborative team environment that values innovation and encourages creative solutions to drive positive organizational impact. Our employees are the key to our success and help us stand out from our competitors. The base pay range for this role is $80,000 to $120,000. The final compensation offer may vary based on factors such as experience, education, skills, and location. We offer competitive pay, paid time off, and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan.

Lanco is an equal opportunity employer. All employment-related decisions, including but not limited to hiring, compensation, promotion, discipline (including termination), evaluation, training and development opportunities, etc., are made without discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender-related identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, military status, protected disability, citizenship, genetic information or any other category protected by applicable law.