The Manufacturing Engineer designs efficient systems that integrate workers, information, machines, energy and materials to make products. They find ways to prevent waste and inefficiency in production processes, design equipment to coordinate production planning to minimize production issues and costs while ensuring products meet quality standards, and design, develop, and maintain manufacturing routes to maximize effectiveness, efficiency and space. The manufacturing engineer analyzes and evaluates existing systems and processes to solve manufacturing and material flow challenges, and conceives, designs, tests, and develops innovative solutions based on analysis and organizational objectives. They will manage and conduct employee training for productivity improvement projects and work in a support role as needed on less complex projects. They will lead the implementation of new products, processes and systems necessary to operate the production area and execute the company's strategies.

Responsibilities:

Review production information to understand methods and activities in manufacturing and services. This includes, but is not limited to, production schedules, process flows and engineering specs Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gain insight and direction Complete time studies to quantify processing times and identify areas for process improvements Read schematics, assembly drawings, data sheets, and process sheets to perform sample and pilot builds, test fixtures, troubleshoot assemblies Create and maintain required manufacturing process documentation, including process flow charts, capacity and utilization studies, time and motion studies, standard work, cycle time analysis and line balancing Analyze labor standards, stocking types, and manufactured product bills of material and recommend updates Complete documentation for assembly instructions, line aids, work instructions, and other standardized procedures Identify and troubleshoot process, material, or equipment problems to minimize down time and implement solutions Create and update facility layouts in AutoCAD Identify opportunities to prevent waste and inefficiency in production Identify and recommend staffing, tooling, and layout needs and changes to improve efficiency Perform tests, gather data, and write results/reports Design control systems to minimize and resolve production issues and project costs Validate and recommend revisions and improvements to manufacturing methods and procedures Installs and validates equipment and processes in the production and warehouse areas to improve yield and/or reduce cycle time following the established validation procedure Assist with training of production and warehouse employees on new products, tooling, equipment, and process revisions Utilize principles of mathematics, science, and engineering to streamline processes Develop and design robust manufacturing concepts to simplify/improve manufacturing processes to ensure best practice, performing structural and thermal analyses of components and assemblies, building prototypes, evaluating performance, identifying issues, and make improvements Research and test design ideas to determine feasibility, utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, Six Sigma, and root cause analysis to formulate/support innovation, corrective actions, and continuous improvement activities Promote Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen events, and other continuous improvement activities Identify and execute ergonomic improvements to improve safety and reduce occupational injuries Identify and support the resolution of end-to-end process efficiencies and bottlenecks from Receiving to Shipping Be present in the workplace and demonstrate commitment, dependability, punctuality and adherence to agreed-upon schedule as determined by manager Adhere to all safety and housekeeping guidelines Works effectively with others in a team environment to accomplish organizational goals and to identify and resolve problems Exhibit and adhere to the established Visual Comfort Company Values Must demonstrate commitment, dependability, punctuality, and adherence to agreed-upon schedule. Be fully present in the workplace to effectively collaborate and communicate amongst co-workers and teams Requirements: Bachelor's degree from a college or university accredited by the U.S. Department of Education. Preferred degrees include BS in-Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or Industrial Engineering 3-5 years of relevant professional experience Minimum of 1 year documenting current state methods and processes and providing actionable improvement recommendations within a manufacturing and/or assembly environment Demonstrated experience with lean methodologies, time studies, process flow mapping, troubleshooting, and process improvement Proficiency in CAD software (DraftSight preferred) and MRP systems Prior experience in a lighting manufacturing environment Experience with quality management systems such as ISO Ability to use and understand specialty tools (e.g., torque wrench, caliper, micrometer) Technical knowledge related to electrical specifications and assemblies Knowledge of production processes, costs, quality control, raw materials and other methods for maximizing the efficient manufacture and distribution of goods Ability to read part, assembly, and wiring drawings, diagrams, and models Proficiency with analytical tools, workflow time study, flowcharting concepts, and process balancing Ability to interface with program management, manufacturing leads, customer, and functional leads Knowledge of the principles, practices, and objectives of lean methods techniques Ability to troubleshoot, explain, and provide solutions to part fitment, tool, testing, BOM, and product issues. Ability to complete time studies, process mapping, and process waste identification. Ability to manipulate, analyze, and understand large amounts of data Strong problem-solving skills and efficient management of time and resources Ability to use a drafting program such as AutoCAD. Advanced experience using MS suite (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook) This position is onsite in Skokie, IL We Provide: Competitive compensation plan Competitive Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits Company provided Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability 401(k) Employer Match Generous Vacation and Paid Time Off Programs Closed on all major holidays Team Member discounts on Visual Comfort Products

Compensation Range: $77,000 - $83,000

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Qualified applicants are considered for employment, and employees are treated during employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity, or expression, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.