Advanced Manufacturing Engineer
17 days ago
Buffalo
Job DescriptionAdvanced Manufacturing Engineer Location: Buffalo, NY Department: Engineering / Operations Reports To: Director, New Product Introduction Position Overview We are seeking an Advanced Manufacturing Engineer to design, stabilize, and continuously improve manufacturing processes in a high-mix, fabrication-driven environment. This role plays a critical part in driving operational excellence, built-in quality, and waste elimination. This engineer will work cross-functionally with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain to ensure processes are capable, repeatable, safe, and scalable—from concept through full production. Key ResponsibilitiesProcess Design & Standardization * Design, develop, and validate robust manufacturing processes aligned with product requirements, safety, and quality expectations. * Establish and maintain standard work, process documentation, and visual controls to ensure repeatable execution. * Lead process development efforts by collaborating with equipment suppliers, integrators, and internal stakeholders. Continuous Improvement (Kaizen) * Identify and eliminate waste using Lean Manufacturing principles (flow, pull, takt, standard work). * Lead and participate in kaizen events, root cause problem solving, and continuous improvement initiatives. * Apply structured problem-solving methods (e.g., PDCA, A3 thinking, 5 Whys) to address process instability and defects. Manufacturing Efficiency & Layout Optimization * Analyze and improve workflow, material flow, space utilization, and equipment layout to support safety, efficiency, and scalability. * Support line balancing, capacity planning, and throughput optimization. Quality at the Source * Design and implement process controls, error-proofing (poka-yoke), and inspection methods to ensure quality is built into the process—not inspected in later. * Partner with Quality to reduce defects, variation, and rework through process capability improvements. Cost & Decision Support * Provide data-driven manufacturing decisions by analyzing labor, material, equipment, and overhead costs. * Support make/buy decisions, capital justification, and process trade-off analysis. Equipment & Process Support * Support equipment commissioning, validation, and troubleshooting. * Coordinate with Maintenance to ensure equipment reliability, uptime, and preventative maintenance alignment. * Serve as a technical resource for manufacturing teams, addressing process questions and improvement opportunities. Data, Documentation & Knowledge Development * Maintain accurate process documentation, databases, and reports related to manufacturing performance. * Develop and deliver training for technicians and operators to ensure process understanding and ownership. * Stay current on manufacturing technologies, methods, and best practices through continued learning. QualificationsRequired * Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field. * 5+ years of experience as a Manufacturing Engineer in a production environment. * Experience supporting fabrication, assembly, or industrial manufacturing operations. * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a structured, methodical approach. * Experience using engineering and manufacturing software tools. * Ability to work independently while effectively leading cross-functional efforts. * Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Preferred * Exposure to Lean Manufacturing, TPS, or continuous improvement systems. * Experience with process mapping, value stream analysis, or standard work development. * Familiarity with quality tools (SPC, PFMEA, control plans). * Experience supporting new product introduction (NPI) or process scale-up. What Success Looks Like in This Role * Manufacturing processes are stable, repeatable, and documented. * Quality issues are prevented upstream through strong process design. * Waste is systematically identified and removed. * Operators and technicians are empowered through clear standards and training. * Decisions are driven by data, not assumptions. * Continuous improvement becomes part of daily work