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Pre Production Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Engineer Design

Wauwatosa, WI ยท On-site

$74K - $112K/yr

Engineer Design Job Function: Engineering Location: PDC Workplace Category:Onsite Company: Harley ... Support vehicle-level system integration activities, regulatory homologation events, pre-production ...

Gear Manufacturing Engineer/Programmer

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

... pre-production design reviews to ensure manufacturability. -Performs reverse engineering and provides technical support for gear rework. - Assists maintenance with machine geometry inspections and ...

Mechanical Engineer IV As a Mechanical Engineer IV you will lead and perform engineering tasks ... pre-production and post launch steps; recommends methods of manufacture during the design of new ...

Mechanical Engineer IV As a Mechanical Engineer IV you will lead and perform engineering tasks ... pre-production and post launch steps; recommends methods of manufacture during the design of new ...

Engineer Design

Wauwatosa, WI ยท On-site

$74K - $112K/yr

Engineer Design Job Function: Engineering Location: PDC Workplace Category:Onsite Company: Harley ... Support vehicle-level system integration activities, regulatory homologation events, pre-production ...

Gear Manufacturing Engineer/Programmer

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

... pre-production design reviews to ensure manufacturability. -Performs reverse engineering and provides technical support for gear rework. - Assists maintenance with machine geometry inspections and ...

Engineer Design

Wauwatosa, WI ยท On-site

$74K - $112K/yr

Engineer Design Job Function: Engineering Location: PDC Workplace Category:Onsite Company: Harley ... Support vehicle-level system integration activities, regulatory homologation events, pre-production ...

WI ยท On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Product Expertise: Develop a deep understanding of the AssetWorks product suite and effectively communicate its benefits to stakeholders at all levels, including line-of-business directors and C ...

Showing results 21-40

Pre Production Engineer information

What is a pre production engineer?

Pre Production Engineers are professionals who plan, coordinate, and oversee the processes and activities that occur before full-scale manufacturing begins. Their responsibilities often include designing prototypes, testing materials, validating processes, and collaborating with design and production teams to ensure smooth transition from development to manufacturing. They play a critical role in identifying potential issues early, optimizing production workflows, and ensuring that products meet quality and cost standards before mass production starts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pre production engineer?

To excel as a Pre Production Engineer, you need a solid background in manufacturing processes, quality control, and product design, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, ERP systems, and industry standards like ISO 9001 is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating with cross-functional teams and ensuring production readiness. These competencies are crucial for minimizing errors, optimizing workflows, and delivering high-quality products efficiently.

What are some typical challenges a pre production engineer faces during the transition from design to manufacturing?

Pre Production Engineers often encounter challenges such as resolving discrepancies between design intent and manufacturability, ensuring that prototypes meet both quality standards and production deadlines, and coordinating with cross-functional teams to implement design changes efficiently. They must balance tight timelines with the need for thorough testing and validation, all while addressing unforeseen technical issues that arise before mass production. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are crucial as they work closely with design, quality assurance, and manufacturing teams to ensure a smooth product launch.

What is the difference between Pre Production Engineer vs Production Engineer?

AspectPre Production EngineerProduction Engineer
Primary FocusPlanning, design, and preparation before manufacturing beginsOverseeing and managing the manufacturing process
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, project planning sitesFactory floors, manufacturing plants
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, CAD skills, project management knowledgeEngineering degree, process optimization skills, technical expertise

Pre Production Engineers focus on planning and designing products before production starts, ensuring readiness and efficiency. Production Engineers manage the manufacturing process, optimizing operations and resolving issues during production. Both roles require engineering backgrounds but differ in their primary responsibilities and work environments.

Are pre production engineers in demand?

Pre production engineers are in demand in industries such as manufacturing, film, and media, where planning and coordination are essential before production begins. They often require skills in project management, technical knowledge, and familiarity with industry-specific tools. The demand for these engineers depends on industry growth and project complexity.

What are popular job titles related to Pre Production Engineer jobs in Wisconsin?

For Pre Production Engineer jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pre Production Engineer jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Pre Production Engineer jobs in Wisconsin are:

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Pre Production Engineer jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Pre Production Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Pre Production Engineer job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Plant/Production Manager-Construction Materials

Kimmel & Associates

Milwaukee, WI โ€ข On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

About the Company
Our client is a leading manufacturer of high-quality architectural and structural precast concrete products. Serving commercial, institutional, and industrial construction markets, the company has built a reputation for delivering complex projects with exceptional quality and reliability.
The organization is experiencing continued growth and seeks a hands-on, results-oriented Plant/Production Manager to lead production operations, drive continuous improvement, and strengthen a culture of safety, quality, accountability, and profitability.
About the Position
The Plant/Production Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of plant production operations, from pre-production planning and scheduling through project completion. This individual will lead multiple production departments, including Plant Operations, Mold Shop, Inventory, Finishing, Stripping, and Batch Plant functions, ensuring projects are delivered safely, efficiently, on schedule, and within budget.
Reporting directly to the Operations Manager, the Plant/Production Manager will collaborate closely with production leadership, quality, safety, engineering, and management teams to optimize workflows, improve productivity, implement Lean Manufacturing initiatives, and maximize profitability across the operation.
Key Responsibilities
Production Planning & Scheduling
  • Lead daily and long-range production planning and crew scheduling across all production areas.
  • Coordinate labor, materials, molds, equipment, and production capacity to ensure efficient workflow.
  • Maintain production schedules and planning systems to meet customer commitments and profitability objectives.
  • Review project drawings and production requirements in advance to ensure readiness.
  • Conduct daily production meetings and communicate priorities across departments.

Plant Operations Leadership
  • Direct day-to-day operations for all production, mold shop, inventory, stripping, finishing, and batch plant activities.
  • Manage production schedules to maximize throughput, efficiency, and cost performance.
  • Establish clear performance expectations and accountability standards for supervisors and crews.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, waste reduction, and operational excellence.
  • Ensure resources are aligned to support changing production demands and customer requirements.

Lean Manufacturing & Process Improvement
  • Identify and eliminate operational waste throughout the manufacturing process.
  • Implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement practices.
  • Analyze labor utilization, workflow efficiency, and production metrics to improve profitability.
  • Develop innovative solutions that enhance production capacity, quality, and operational performance.

Quality Management
  • Partner with the Quality Manager to promote a culture of quality throughout the organization.
  • Ensure quality standards and inspection procedures are consistently followed.
  • Drive first-time quality performance and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Address root causes of quality issues and implement sustainable corrective actions.
  • Foster a workforce committed to producing best-in-class architectural precast products.

Financial Performance & Profitability
  • Maintain accountability for labor performance and job profitability.
  • Monitor actual production hours against estimates and budgets.
  • Establish productivity goals and lead teams to meet or exceed performance targets.

Safety & Environmental Leadership
  • Champion a safety-first culture throughout the operation.
  • Partner with the Safety Director to enforce safety policies, procedures, and regulatory compliance.
  • Conduct regular safety meetings, toolbox talks, and workplace inspections.

Team Development & Leadership
  • Recruit, develop, mentor, and retain high-performing production personnel.
  • Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching and development.
  • Promote cross-training initiatives to strengthen workforce flexibility and capability.

Requirements
Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Operations Management, Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred.
  • Minimum 7-10 years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing, precast concrete, construction products, heavy industrial, or related production environments.
  • Demonstrated experience managing multiple production departments and supervisory personnel.
  • Proven success leading Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Strong understanding of production scheduling, workforce planning, quality systems, and cost management.
  • Experience managing budgets, labor efficiency, and profitability metrics.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in precast concrete manufacturing or related construction product manufacturing.
  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or similar methodologies.
  • Experience managing union and/or non-union production teams.
  • Strong understanding of production planning systems and manufacturing KPIs.

Benefits
  • Base salary of $125,000 - $150,000, depending on experience
  • Relocation assistance available
  • Performance-based bonus opportunities
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Professional development and leadership growth opportunities
  • Stable and growing organization with long-term career advancement potential
  • Collaborative, team-oriented culture focused on safety, quality, and continuous improvement

Kimmel & Associates logo

About Kimmel & Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kimmel & Associates, based in Asheville, NC, US, is recognized as the premier leader in the executive search and recruitment industry. The company, in operation since 1981, serves numerous industries including construction, supply chain, waste, and recycling, specialty contractors, and private equity. Utilizing their exceptional knowledge and robust industry connections, they assist clients by filling crucial executive and managerial roles that directly impact business performance and growth. The company is guided by a strong corporate philosophy centered on respect, listening, humility, and continuous improvement. Their mission is to foster enduring relationships and to help industries thrive by connecting the brightest talent with superior companies.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Asheville, NC, US

Year founded

1981

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